Anchoring the Learning is a term used to describe best practice in closing or summarizing the learning at the end of a lesson or unit. During Anchoring the Learning teachers revisit the mastery objective and essential question and guide students to reflect on their learning.

Anchored instruction is directly linked to the idea of inert previous knowledge, that is knowledge people already have but they do not recall unless they are prompted to do so. Anchored instruction urges learners to retrieve this knowledge in order to solve problems related to the subject matter under study.

THEORY DESCRIPTION. Anchored instruction is a technology-based learning approach which stresses the importance of placing learning within a meaningful, problem-solving context. A form of situated learning, anchored instruction uses context– stories or micro— to situate the learning and application of knowledge.

Cognitive flexibility theory focuses on the nature of learning in complex and ill-structured domains. The theory is largely concerned with transfer of knowledge and skills beyond their initial learning situation.

1. 7 Ways to Develop Cognitive Flexibility.
2. Alter your everyday routine.
3. Seek out new experiences.
4. Practice thinking creatively.
5. Don’t always take the easy way.
6. Go out of your way to meet new people.
7. Transfer your learning.
8. Challenge your morals.

Having cognitive flexibility allows you to analyze a situation and come up with alternative plans to meet your goals or requirements. Being cognitively flexible increases your likelihood of success, too. This ability to quickly adapt to new situations increases one’s brain function and resilience to stress.

Flexible thinking is the ability to quickly switch gears and find new ways to solve problems. Kids who struggle with flexible thinking often have trouble coping with change.

Previous studies have found that the prefrontal cortex is essential for cognitive flexibility, and that a part of the thalamus called the mediodorsal thalamus also contributes to this ability.

When you stretch, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, a “high” if you will.

Trail Making Test (TMT)

The brain is flexible and adaptable in response to environmental cues. The brain releases chemicals called neurotransmitters that help aid communication between brain cells called neurons. The ability of the neurotransmitters to remain adaptable adds to the flexibility of the brain and the nervous system.

The human brain is composed of approximately 86 billion neurons. Structural plasticity: The brain’s ability to actually change its physical structure as a result of learning.

Research has shown that in fact the brain never stops changing through learning. Plasticity is the capacity of the brain to change with learning. Changes associated with learning occur mostly at the level of connections between neurons: New connections form and the internal structure of the existing synapses change.

Cognitive Flexibility and Control is the ability to change what you are thinking about, how you are thinking about it and even what you think about it – in other words, the ability to change your mind. Cognitive flexibility is required in multiple ways throughout the school day.

Your original plans or routine were changed by an unexpected situation, but your cognitive flexibility and shifting allow to you think of possible alternative solutions to help you get to work on time. Being able to understand this and look for another solution is another example of mental flexibility.

These habits can improve cognitive function and protect against cognitive decline for a lifespan.

1. Physical Activity.
2. Openness to Experience.
3. Curiosity and Creativity.
4. Social Connections.
5. Mindfulness Meditation.
6. Brain-Training Games.
7. Get Enough Sleep.
8. Reduce Chronic Stress.