Learning Tip Number Two: Chew some gum!

Continuing the discussion on learning tips, todays might seem a bit unorthodox.  Tip number two is chew gum or suck on mints while studying.  I know, I know, it seems a bit crazy doesn't it?  I mean when I was in school gum chewing

was a taboo.  We were told to take gum out before tests and during class. 

Well, it may surprise you to learn that there has been some interesting research which indicates that chewing gum or sucking on mints while studying and taking tests can dramatically improve test results.  I learned of this tidbit at an in-service on brain function.  The speaker (whose name for the life of me escapes me) said that chewing gum/sucking on a mint while studying and then doing the same during a test improves the brains ability to recall information. 

Brain research over the years has taught us that the more senses that are involved in an activity, the stronger the learning because more neural pathways are involved in the process.  Teachers of young children are well aware of this fact hence their use of hands on learning.  For example, I remember when my daughter was in kindergarten and the teacher was introducing the idea of graphing.  Rather than just having them color a chart, the class made graphs on the floor using different color vegetables.  When it came time to color the graph, they were able to pull the information from their little brains a little easier having had the hands on experience as a reference point. 

There are a couple of other theories about why gum chewing aids in memory recall beside the multiple senses idea.  For example, some research indicates that gum chewing releases tension.  If you want to learn more about how gum chewing can aid in learning, concentration and stress release, check out Wrigley's website.  Concerned that they might have a vested interest on this subject?  Here's a link that cites research by the University of Northumbria and the Cognitive Research Unit in England:  findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1571/is_13_18/ai_84804845

What are your thoughts on this?  I'd love to hear them!  Stayed tuned for more posts on learning tips...