Left-brain or Right-brain Dominant? Explore the Ideal Subjects to Nurture your Strengths
Choosing what to study after high school can be tough. A popular theory that aids some students in their decision-making process is the left-brain vs right-brain theory. It suggests that people have a dominant side of their brain, which influences their thinking and learning styles. While it’s important to note that this theory has been debated and may not be entirely accurate, it can be helpful to understand your strengths when choosing subjects to study. This article will explore the ideal subjects for individuals who are left-brain or right-brain dominant.
Subjects for People Who Are Left-brain Dominant
If you are left-brain dominant, you are likely to be more analytical, logical and detail-oriented. You excel in subjects that require problem-solving skills and have a strong understanding of numbers and patterns. Here are some ideal subjects for left-brain dominant individuals:
Electrical or Computer Engineering
Electrical or computer engineering is a perfect fit for left-brain dominant individuals. This field requires strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. There are many rewarding career paths for aspiring electrical and computer engineers, especially if you choose to take a masters in electrical and computer engineering, advancing your studies and broadening your opportunities. Electrical or computer engineers design, develop and test electrical systems or computer software.
Information Technologies
Information technologies involve the use of computers and software to manage and process information. Left-brain dominant individuals thrive in this field due to their logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. You can pursue a career as a software developer, database administrator or IT consultant.
Statistics
Statistics is all about analyzing data and drawing meaningful conclusions. Left-brain dominant individuals have a natural affinity for numbers and patterns, making statistics an ideal subject for them. With a strong foundation in statistics, you can pursue a career as a data analyst, market researcher or actuary.
Accounting
Accounting is a field that requires attention to detail and strong analytical skills. Left-brain dominant individuals excel in this subject as they can easily understand and interpret financial information. With a degree in accounting, you can become a certified public accountant or work in financial management.
The Sciences
The sciences, including physics, chemistry and biology, are perfect for left-brain dominant individuals. These subjects involve critical thinking, problem-solving and a strong understanding of scientific principles. You can pursue a career as a scientist, researcher or science educator.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering combines creativity with analytical thinking. Left-brain dominant individuals can excel in this field as they can solve complex problems while considering the practical aspects of construction and infrastructure. As a civil engineer, you will design and oversee the construction of buildings, bridges and other public infrastructures.
Subjects for People Who Are Right-brain Dominant
If you are right-brain dominant, you are likely to be more creative, intuitive and artistic. You thrive in subjects that allow you to express yourself and think outside the box. Here are some ideal subjects for right-brain dominant individuals:
Critical Theory
Critical theory involves analyzing and interpreting various forms of media, literature and art. Right-brain dominant individuals excel in this subject as they can think critically and offer unique perspectives. You can pursue a career as a literary critic, art curator or cultural analyst.
Music and Composition
Music and composition are perfect for right-brain dominant individuals who have a natural talent for creativity and expression. Whether you want to become a musician, composer or music teacher, this subject allows you to explore your artistic abilities.
Fine Arts
Fine arts encompass various forms of visual arts, including painting, sculpture and photography. Right-brain dominant individuals can unleash their creativity and imagination in this subject. With a degree in fine arts, you can become a professional artist, art director or art therapist.
Media Studies
Media studies involve analyzing and understanding the impact of media on society. Right-brain dominant individuals can excel in this subject as they can critically analyze media messages and create compelling content. You can pursue a career in journalism, advertising or media production.
Literature
Literature allows individuals to explore different cultures, perspectives and emotions through written work. Right-brain dominant individuals have a natural affinity for storytelling and can appreciate the beauty of language. You can become a writer, editor or literary critic with a degree in literature.
Final Thoughts
Remember, while these subjects are often associated with left-brain or right-brain dominance, it’s important to nurture both sides of your brain. Developing a well-rounded skill set can open up more opportunities and allow you to thrive in various fields. So, whether you lean more towards the left or right brain, embrace your strengths and pursue subjects that ignite your passion and curiosity.
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Jacqui Murray has been teaching K-18 technology for 30 years. She is the editor/author of over a hundred tech ed resources including a K-12 technology curriculum, K-8 keyboard curriculum, K-8 Digital Citizenship curriculum. She is an adjunct professor in tech ed, Master Teacher, webmaster for four blogs, CSTA presentation reviewer, freelance journalist on tech ed topics, contributor to NEA Today, and author of the tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days. You can find her resources at Structured Learning.
Very interesting post, Jacqui. I consider myself to be much more of a left-brain, analytical type. People find it quite curious that I actually like logic and math. Yet, writing feeds my creative side, and that feels like a necessary component of being a well-rounded person.
I suspect that this comment won’t show up because they never seem to on this blog, but I’m trying again. (I never have any problems on your other blog.) it’s one of those WordPress gremlins at work. Too bad, I can’t just reboot the computer. See, I’m paying attention. 🤣
I’m the same way, much more comfortable with structure and rules than outside the box thinking, but life requires both.
Glad this showed up!
Hi Jacqui, this is very interesting. I will show this to Michael.
Do you offer classes?
Like you said the left-right brain theory is a bit questionable, but like you I would fit in the left brain category. My education is in physics and then Electrical or Computer Engineering with robotics as a specialty, and then I did robotics, firmware and embedded software (in machines) for a living. Very left-brain stuff. My wife is the opposite.