Great teachers have long understood the power of demonstration. Modelling is a crucial part of the learning process, whether it’s showing students how to solve a complex maths problem, structure an essay, or navigate social interactions. But why is explicit modelling so effective? The answer lies in neuroscience—specifically, in the role of mirror neurons.
What do Mirror Neurons do?
Mirror neurons are brain cells that function when doing something and watching someone else do the same action. First discovered in the 1990s in primates, these neurons have since been identified in humans and are considered fundamental to learning through observation.
In education, this means that when students watch a teacher demonstrate a task—whether it’s writing a sentence, conducting a science experiment, or resolving a conflict—their brains simulate the action. This neural mirroring helps them understand not only the mechanics of the task but also the intention behind it.
A study by Daniel Mara (2017) highlights how mirror neurons contribute to social learning and empathy, particularly in children. These neurons enable students to internalise behaviours and concepts more effectively when they see them explicitly modelled. This process is particularly significant in early education, where foundational skills and social norms are established.
Why Explicit Modelling is Essential
While teachers instinctively model behaviours and skills, making this modelling explicit enhances its effectiveness. This means breaking down tasks step by step, verbalising the thought process, and reinforcing key elements through repetition. Neuroscience supports this approach by showing that clear, structured demonstration strengthens neural connections, making learning more efficient and memorable.
Additionally, research suggests that mirror neurons are closely linked to empathy and abstract thinking. When students observe a teacher demonstrating patience, problem-solving, or social interaction, they are more likely to internalise these behaviours, fostering both cognitive and emotional development.
Conversely, a malfunction of the mirror neuron system has been associated with neurological and psychiatric conditions, including autism. This insight can help teachers tailor their teaching strategies to support neurodiverse students better, offering alternative ways to engage with learning through structured modelling and scaffolding techniques.
Applying Mirror Neuron Research in the Classroom
Teachers can leverage the power of mirror neurons by incorporating the following strategies:
- Demonstration and Modelling – Clearly model skills and behaviours while verbalising the thought process. For example, in a writing lesson, a teacher might say, “First, I’m brainstorming ideas. Now, I’m structuring my introduction to grab the reader’s attention.”
- Role Play and Peer Learning – Encourage collaborative tasks where students observe and imitate their peers, reinforcing learning through social interaction.
- Multisensory Lessons – Combine verbal instruction with physical movement and visual cues to strengthen neural connections.
- Empathy Training – Design activities that help students recognise and respond to others’ emotions, reinforcing social and emotional learning.
- Scaffolded Learning – Break tasks into smaller steps, ensuring students can observe, attempt, and refine their approach over time.
The Impact of Neuroscience on Teaching Practices
Understanding how mirror neurons function can transform how teachers approach instruction, behaviour management, and student engagement. By making modelling explicit, teachers can create richer learning experiences, enhance student comprehension, and foster deeper connections between thought and action.
Every time a teacher models a skill, students are not just watching but neurologically engaging in the learning process.
By integrating explicit modelling techniques into daily lessons, teachers can harness the power of neuroscience to accelerate learning, improve understanding, and build essential life skills.