Neural pathways refer to the network of neurons in the brain responsible for visual representation. It activates the visual cortex as the brain views words. Initially, images are stored in the object area of the visual cortex. When the brain encounters a word repeatedly, it builds neural networks for spelling, pronunciation, and the meaning of the word. Neurons function partly on chemistry and partly on electrical impulses. The more often the neurons are activated, the stronger the wiring between neurons.
Published in Chapter:
Maximizing Students' Learning Success Through Lab-on-Line: The University of Namibia Experience
Minda M. B. Marshall (LectorSA, South Africa), Simon George Taukeni (University of Fort Hare, South Africa & University of Namibia, Namibia), Rheinhold Disho Muruti (University of Namibia, Namibia), Gibert Likando (University of Namibia, Namibia), Cynthy Kaliinasho Haihambo (University of Namibia, Namibia), Mathilde Shihako (University of Namibia, Namibia), Chamelle De Silva (University of Namibia, Namibia), and Marshall M. (LectorSA, South Africa)
Copyright: © 2020
|Pages: 15
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-0319-5.ch012
Abstract
This chapter foregrounds the Lab-On-Line project, a technological innovation developed to enhance visual processing skills, improve memory and vocabulary, and increase reading fluency with the explicit aim of improving comprehension. Thirty (30) 3rd year students at one of the University of Namibia campuses participated in the pilot study. A pre-test was conducted for placement purpose. Subsequently, the selected sample commenced with the Lab-On-Line program that consists of 20 lessons that were carried out twice a week over a period of five months. Thereafter a Standardized Reading Evaluation was performed to determine their language proficiency, reading speed per minute and comprehension ability. Results show that the majority of participating students had improved their perceptual development and reading speed (VPF), cognitive development and comprehension skills (CDF), and relative reading efficiency (AIUF).