Authors : Rahna K. Rathnan; Smitha Vakkayil; Lokeshwari Mahendran; Aruna K. G.; Leena Shiju; Krishnaraj M.; Chitra Sharma; Bindhu Rajiv; Andaleeb Ishteyaq

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yvvyrxc8

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mu6zyhxm

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26aug512

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This action research paper investigates how the integration of Brain-Based Learning (BBL) strategies with Transformative Pedagogy influences the academic achievement and holistic development of secondary students, Gr 12, over three academic years (2021–2024). Grounded in neuroscience and learner-centred pedagogical theory, the study examines whether intentional alignment of instructional strategies with the brain's natural learning processes — combined with a transformative pedagogical framework centred on critical reflection, active participation, and real-world application — produces measurable gains in conceptual understanding, knowledge retention, higher-order thinking, and global citizenship competencies. A mixed-methods action research design was employed, with data collected through pre-tests, periodic assessments, concept maps, reflective journals, teacher observations, student surveys, and performance tasks.

Keywords : Brain-Based Learning; Transformative Pedagogy; Action Research; Education; Academic Achievement; Global Citizens.

References :

1. Abdolmaleki, N., and Saeedi, Z. (2024). Brain-based CALL in flipped higher education GE courses held through LMS: boosting vocabulary learning and reading comprehension. Int. J. Educ. Technol. High. Educ. 21(11), 1-27.
2. Alkhassawneh, S., and Sharif, H. A. (2025). Perspectives of brain research (educational neuroscience) on the design and implementation of teaching strategies in educational technology. J. Neuro Oncol. 5.
3. Antoni Ballester Vallori. (2014). Meaningful Learning in Practice. Journal of Education and Human Development, 3(4), 199-209.
4. Ayres, P. (2020). Something old, something new from cognitive load theory. Comput. Human Behav. 113:106503.
5. Barnett, R., and Jackson, N. (Eds.) (2020). Ecologies for learning and practice: Emerging ideas, sightings, and possibilities. London: Routledge.
6. Bowers, J. S. (2016). The practical and principled problems with educational neuroscience. Psychological Review, 123(5), 600–612.
7. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101.
8. Bruer, J. T. (1997). Education and the brain: A bridge too far. Educational Researcher, 26(8), 4–16.
9. Caine, R. N., & Caine, G. (1991). Making connections: Teaching and the human brain. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
10. Farren, P. (2016). “Transformative pedagogy” in context: Being and becoming. World Journal on Educational Technology: Current Issues, 8(3), 190–204.
11. Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the oppressed. Herder and Herder.
12. Jensen, E. P. (2008). Brain-based learning: The new paradigm of teaching (2nd ed.). Corwin Press.
13. Rodríguez, J. S., Vargas Sánchez, D. A. D., Boude Figueredo, O., & Almenarez Mendoza, F. (2026). Charting the growth of brain-based learning in higher education instructional design. Frontiers in Education.
14. Kemmis, S., & McTaggart, R. (1988). The action research planner (3rd ed.). Deakin University Press.
15. McNiff, J., & Whitehead, J. (2011). All you need to know about action research (2nd ed.). SAGE Publications.
16. Mezirow, J. (1991). Transformative dimensions of adult learning. Jossey-Bass.
17. OECD. (2007). Understanding the brain: The birth of a learning science. OECD Publishing.
18. Sousa, D. A. (2011). How the brain learns (4th ed.). Corwin Press.
19. Sterling, S. (2010). Transformative learning and sustainability: Sketching the conceptual ground. Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, 5, 17–33.
20. Thomas, M. S. C., Ansari, D., & Knowland, V. C. P. (2019). Annual research review: Educational neuroscience: Progress and prospects. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 60(4), 477–492.
21. UNESCO. (2015). Global citizenship education: Topics and learning objectives. UNESCO Publishing.
22. Waterhouse, L. (2023). Why multiple intelligences theory is a neuromyth. Frontiers in Psychology, 14.
23. Willis, J. (2007). Brain-friendly strategies for the inclusion classroom. ASCD.
24. Zull, J. E. (2002). The art of changing the brain: Enriching teaching by exploring the biology of learning. Stylus Publishing.