Research -- StepUp to Learn

Motivation Depends on How the Brain Processes Fatigue

Motivation Depends on How the Brain Processes Fatigue

How do we decide whether or not an activity which requires work is ‘worth the effort’?

Team Finds Brain Mechanism that Automatically Links Objects in our Minds

Team Finds Brain Mechanism that Automatically Links Objects in our Minds

Scientists map the part of the brain that "links" similar objects, leading to new insights about how the brain processes information out of context.

Researchers Find What Motivates Young Children to Learn

Researchers Find What Motivates Young Children to Learn

The study focused on how children’s knowledge level influences what information they find interesting. The findings suggest that children are not simply attracted to information by its novelty.

Not All Recess is Created Equal

Not All Recess is Created Equal

With schools returning to full-time in-person classes this fall now is a good time to rethink, ‘How do we create schools that are more child-friendly?’ 

Thinking in 3D Improves Mathematical Skills

Thinking in 3D Improves Mathematical Skills

New research suggests that there is a strong correlation between early spatial skills and the comprehension of mathematical concepts later.

Taking Short Breaks May Help our Brains Learn New Skills

Taking Short Breaks May Help our Brains Learn New Skills

The resting brain repeatedly replays compressed memories of what was just practiced.

Active Early Learning Shapes the Adult Brain

Active Early Learning Shapes the Adult Brain

An enhanced learning environment during the first five years of life shapes the brain in ways that are apparent four decades later.

These Cognitive Exercises Help Children Boost Their Math Skills

These Cognitive Exercises Help Children Boost Their Math Skills

Young children who practice visual working memory and reasoning tasks improve their math skills more than children who focus on spatial rotation exercises.

Petting Therapy Dogs Enhances Thinking Skills

Petting Therapy Dogs Enhances Thinking Skills

New research shows petting therapy dogs enhances thinking skills of stressed students.

Leaving Kids to Fight It Out On Their Own

Leaving Kids to Fight It Out On Their Own

Zero to minimal intervention during conflict among children is a characteristic of the mimamoru approach practiced in Japanese schools to foster the voluntary participation of kids in their learning.

Youngest Children in Class Are More Likely to Be Diagnosed with a Learning Disability

Youngest Children in Class Are More Likely to Be Diagnosed with a Learning Disability

Children born in December are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with a learning disorder as those born in January. 

Sugar: High Consumption Affects Learning, Memory

Sugar: High Consumption Affects Learning, Memory

New research shows high sugar consumption early in life affects learning and memory.