Evidence in Learning and Education

How people learn is a central aspect of education. Since learning figures so prominently in the entire field of education, it would make sense to review what we know about learning in light of what science tells us about the process. From behavioural studies to neuroimaging, we have learned a great deal about the process.

During a ten week module offered through Socelor, the evidence underlying learning and education will be examined. As the discussions are driven by the interests of the participants, it is difficult to know exactly what will be covered during the time. However, because of the method of learning that has been developed, it is guaranteed that you will have the topic(s) of your choice fully explored. The format allows learners to examine the evidence from the perspective of either how learning takes place or the evidence that supports common (or not so common) educational practices.

From the years that I have taught this subject, typically, some of the topics covered include – from both a learning and educational perspective:

·     Grading

·     Marking

·     Exams

·     Marking Rubrics

·     Memory

·     Memorizing Techniques

·     Teaching Methods (lectures, interactive, discovery, discussion, flipped – and on and on)

·     Neuromyths about Learning

·     Educational Fads

·     Techniques to Study Learning and Education

·     Standardized Testing

·     Motivating Learners

·     Conformity and Creativity

·     Fostering Thinking

·     Mistakes

·     Teacher Training

This module is for anyone interested in the topics of learning and education. Because of the format of the module, learners range from new or experienced teachers and educational reformers to parents, grandparents, or anyone who knows anything about education and learning and would like to know more.

The module runs for ten-weeks and included both face-to-face discussions (online) and asynchronous online discussion to take advantage of the power of iterative discussions and provide the optimal conditions to foster the development of thinking skills.

If you would are interested, have a look at Socelor.com and maybe give it a try.