Mind, Brain, and Education

COURSE OBJECTIVE
The aims of the course Mind Brain and Education are to provide an introduction into neuroeducational research, and to learn students to reflect critically on how neuroscientific research can be translated to the educational practice.

COURSE CONTENT
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.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures and tutorials

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written exam with open-ended questions.