UMass Amherst

Why is the Brain the Logo for Research Literacy?

Like the brain, our goal at Research Literacy is to bring together different ways of thinking. Western thought is dependent on language patterns of paired opposites or what are called binary oppositions. The first step in bringing together multiple ways of thinking requires taking apart the oppositions that have been constructed around thinking.

People used to believe that there were just two thinking styles – variously famed as logical or creative, holistic or analytic, and left-brain or right-brain. Such categories set up oppositions between disciplines and professions as well as between academe and everyday life. Some are unsure if academic thinking fits in with the creative arts or if questions about diversity and social justice are applicable to the sciences. Others speculate that theory gets in the way of political activism. In spite of the increasing need for faculty communication with millennials who are "tech savvy," some wonder if technology interferes with learning.

At Research Literacy, we stress that research involves multiple ways of thinking along with multiple literacies. Our multi-pronged model reflects the need for citizens who can move across disciplines and between information communities.

 integrated brain

Research -
The Fourth "R"

Hot Tip for Researchers

“How can I find out about my learning style?”

Take this free quiz from learning-styles-online.com to find out more about your ways of thinking.

Click Here!