Mind Brain and Education - Period 2

Many scientists, policymakers and teachers share the belief that knowledge of the brain is relevant to educational practice. Yet, implementing neuroscientific findings in the classroom is by no means straightforward. Experts in the different fields seem to speak a different language. This course will provide an introduction into the new scientific domain of neuroeducational research. It will highlight insights from neuroscience that are relevant to educational practice. It will try to bridge the gap between the two fields. Using examples of recent interdisciplinary studies, it will demonstrate how diverse methodological approaches, ranging from neuro-imaging laboratory experiments used in cognitive neuroscience, to the approaches used in educational sciences, can be integrated. The course will outline the ways education can be improved using knowledge of the brain, but also point to the risks involved in this endeavour, specifically the proliferation of so-called neuromyths. Topics that will be covered are for example learning and plasticity, development of cognitive skills such as reading and math, development of metacognitive and social skills, neuro-imaging methods (myths and opportunities), and ethical discussions on the use of neuro-enhancement and early biomarkers of learning disorders.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) awards credits based on the ECTS system. Contact hours listed under a course description may vary due to the combination of lecture-based and independent work required for each course therefore, CEA's recommended credits are based on the ECTS credits assigned by VU Amsterdam. 1 ECTS equals 28 contact hours assigned by VU Amsterdam.