Brain-based Education (BBE) is a specialised domain in the field of Education. It focuses on the theory and practice of memory and learning from a neuroscience perspective. It gives teachers a new, evidence-based paradigm to approach learning and teaching. Indeed, every educator should have a contemporary and really good understanding of the brain and how to optimise learning. As Whitman (2014) states "Despite the fact that the work of educators targets the organ of learning, the brain, most teachers and school leaders have little understanding of the architecture of the brain and how it receives, filters, and applies information." Key aspects of BBE are:

• How the brain develops

The focus on the development of the neural networks is of essential importance in understanding practical pedagogical principles to enhance learning. The brain develops in a unique pattern from conception, pre- and post-partum and during the stages of development. Classical pedagogy focuses on observation based development (Piaget, Erikson, etc.). Neuroscience opens new perspectives on neural development and points toward specific activations to enhance the development of neural networks.

• The expression of genes

The classical understanding of the role of genetics has dramatically changed over the course of the last two decades. Research demonstrates the role of the environment that activates expression of genetic predispositions. This has profound implications for educational environments. A clear understanding of the basic principles of epigenetics and how the environment can enrich or compromise neural development brings a new approach to education delivery.

• Neural plasticity

The essence of education is the facilitations of learning. Learning is not a theoretical construct but the activation of neural networks. A clear understanding of how neural networks operate and what educators can do to facilitate neural networks brings a much deeper theoretical knowledge that can be articulated in enhanced practices (in comparison to classical guidelines without understanding the principles that drive the educational practice). Plasticity also implies the capacity to change existing networks. Understanding the complexities of learning but also unlearning bring much deeper insights into the challenges of learning difficulties and learning behaviours.

• Memory and learning

The neuroscience of memory has shifted the classical educational paradigm into a new paradigm. Understanding the operational systems of the brain regarding the development of memory systems as well as the hierarchy of memory systems and processes of memory opens new insights into the challenges of learning. BBE focuses on guiding educators to understand the neural basis of fear, support, overprotection, repetition, asking questions, social interaction, sleep, nutrition, exercise and many related aspects of the development of the neural networks towards a well-integrated socially responsible thriving person.

• Learning and the environment

BBE focuses on a clear understanding of the neuroscience of safety (emotional, physical, social). The classic paradigm of safety provides a limited understanding of how the brain (and learning) is effected by fear and the environment. BBE will assist educators with clear guidelines to facilitate active learning (controllable incongruence) without compromising wellness. BBE links two domains (performance and wellness) into one paradigm of ‘thriving learning’.

• Educational skills to maximise learning

BBE focuses on guiding educators to providing a safe, enriched environment to enhance neural proliferations. Specific skills are demonstrated to maximise learning.