Advanced Tutorial Training Student Athlete Academic Services University of Southern California Presented by Denise Kwok
A Mind at a Time Dr. Mel Levine Ways of Learning (8 systems) The Neurodevelopmental systems Attention Control Higher Thinking Social Thinking Language Memory Spatial Ordering Sequential Ordering Motor System
Attention Control Headquarters for mental regulation Necessary for all other functions Directs distribution of mental energy – To help finish what we start and stay alert through the day Example: stop thinking about the party tonite and focus on the session at hand!
Memory System More memory required for school than any other career Retrieval and application required. Consists of Short term, Working memory and Long term
The Language System Requires detection of both sounds and meanings Receptive and expressive language Written and spoken language The most taxed system in the academic arena
The Spatial Ordering System Enables us to deal with/create information in a visual pattern or configuration Organization of materials/concepts Visualization of concepts/objects. Thinking in pictures Also important in athletics – plays, body awareness
Sequential Ordering System Dealing with chains of information Can be in the form of: – Academic information – Following Directions – Time – time management, estimating time, allocation of time…
Motor System Governs the relations between the brain and the physical body Most athletes have no problems here Fine motor vs. gross motor
Higher Thinking System Grasping concepts, meanings, being able to apply concepts to new problems, understand symbolism Problem solving and logical reasoning Understanding how and when rules apply Getting the point of a complicated idea Critical and creative thinking Some students are not yet mature enough…
Social Thinking System Ability to make friends Form groups in class for studying Talk with professors or those who can provide help An often underestimated/undervalued part of our neurodevelopmental profile.
How to realign the mind Understand the Neurodevelopmental profile Demystify – help students understand themselves Accommodations – if needed, DSP related services Interventions – where tutors/LA’s come in Affirming strengths Protection from Humiliation
What influences our Neurodevelopmental Profile? Neurodevelopmental profile Temperament /Emotional Genetic Factors Environmental Influences Family Factors Influence of Peers Physical Health Educational Experience Cultural Values