After ECS released a report on brain-based learning and other education research focusing on early brain development, a number of states expanded preschool, parent training, and other early childhood initiatives. As with any complicated issue, there have been a few missteps along the way. In the late 1990s, then-Gov. Zell Miller of Georgia proposed the state give free classical-music cassettes and CDs to new mothers to play to their newborns. Such misguided efforts clearly frustrate those who see real value in the research.
Some educators say a strong groundwork in the research is helping avoid such simplistic mistakes.
Study groups at various schools also disseminate information on the latest research and its usefulness in the classroom. And actual results also are monitored. Not every initiative in the school system can be credited solely to brain-based research, but DeJarnett says he believes some credit is due. Copyright 2001, National School Boards Association. This article may be printed out and photocopied for individual or educational use, provided this copyright notice appears on each copy.