EDUCATION NOTES MASENO

DISCUSS THE BEHAVIOURAL FUNCTIONS OF THE STRUCTURES IN THE
NERVOUS SYSTEM, THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM AND THE ROLE OF HORMONES
IN THE INFLUENCE OF BEHAVIOR.

INTRODUCTION
The study of psychology in education seeks to understand how biological, psychological and
social processes influence learning and behavior. The nervous system and endocrine system are
two key biological systems in regulation of behavior emotions and cognitive functions.
Hormones also play a key role in shaping human behavior and learning outcomes

NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system can be classified into the central nervous system and peripheral nervous
system, both of which influence behavior in different ways

a) Central nervous system
 Brain:
o The cerebrum controls reasoning, problem solving, memory emotions and
voluntary actions
o The cerebellum regulates balance, movement and coordination
o The limbic system especially the amygdala and hippocampus, controls
emotions and memory formation
 Spinal cord
o Serves as a communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the
body
o Controls reflexes and quick responses to stimuli
b) Peripheral nervous system
 Somatic nervous system-Controls voluntary behaviors such as speech,
movement and writing.
 Autonomic nervous system-Control involuntary functions such as breathing,
heartbeat and digestion
o Sympathetic division-prepares the body for action (fight or flight)
o Parasympathetic division-restores calmness (rest and digest