This module provides an introduction to the relatively new field of educational neurocognitive studies, linking neuroscience with education. Understanding how our human brains grow, think, learn and influence our behaviour, is valuable for all teachers. However, a deep appreciation of the intricacies, capabilities, and limitations of the brain, is particularly relevant for science and maths teachers. In teaching the complexities of the sciences, teachers should be continually cognisant of applying the best didactic practices that allow the developing brain to engage optimally with the scientific content and practices.
In this module we explore the basic structure and function of the brain, its amazing capacity for continual change and learning. We then go on to discover the illusive inner workings of the mind as the instrument of people’s thinking, critical thoughts, creativity, and scientific behaviours.
Applying these insights practically in the science laboratory or maths classroom is a rewarding challenge for teachers who care about the learning process of each of their pupils.
Teachers are reflective practitioners who think carefully about the lessons, worksheets, and activities they design. Such challenges propel teachers to create innovative and technology integrated, authentic and diverse activities in accordance with scholarly evidence of brain based learning pedagogical practices.
- Manager: Pauline Hanekom
- Facilitator: Marieke Pretorius