Gender Differences in Learning Debate

There are known differences in cerebral laterality between males and females. Although our brains are unique, some believe it is politically incorrect to say there are gender differences while others assert that male and female brains are different. For some educators and policy makers, it's easy choice; we should have same-sex schools. For others, brain-based research raises questions about instructional design, teacher qualifications, class size, and instructional strategies. This discussion has three parts, so be sure to note the required reflection near the end of the week. Two of the recommend resources may help you to contribute to this discussion: Salomone (2007) and Gurian, Henley, & Trueman (2001). Both of these resources are available in ebrary through the Ashford Library.

Initial post: Describe the gender-based differences in the brain's executive processes during problem solving and critical thinking. Then, based on your debate group assigned below, use the course materials and at least one other scholarly source from the Ashford Library to justify whether these differences dictate a need to change our educational policies and teaching strategies.

Debate Grouping (by the first letter of the last name):

• A-L: For a change in our educational policies and teaching strategies
• M- Z: Against a change in our educational policies and teaching strategies.

Gurian, M., Henley, P., & Trueman, T. (2001). Boys and girls learn differently: A guide for teachers and parents. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

• Chapter 1: How Boys and Girls Learn Differently?