Teaching with the Brain in Mind: 2nd Edition

This course will study brain-based learning that involves using approaches to schooling that rely on recent brain research to support and develop improved teaching strategies. Teachers will examine the latest research as it applies to how the human brain is constantly searching for meaning and seeking patterns and connections. Educators will evaluate their teaching approaches and adapt or utilize brain-based strategies for instruction that enhances learning. They will develop lessons or activities for the classroom to help students to retain, recall, and apply curriculum content. (3 credits)

Write a brief paragraph or two about ideas, knowledge and information that you thought were significant from each chapter in the book. Perhaps statements, a paragraph or a concept that was enlightening and applicable to teaching. Bullet points of main issues are also fine.

1. Meet Your Amazing Brain
2. Preparing the Brain for School
3. Rules We Learn By
4. Motivation and Learning
5. Emotional States
6. Physical Environments for Leaning
7. Managing the Social Brain
8. Motivation and Engagement
9. Critical Thinking Skills
10. Memory and Recall
11. Brain Based Teaching
12. Schools with the Brain in Mind

1. Students will have a working background of brain research and learning theory. They will also have a basic understanding of the brain's size, content, lobes, and basic operations.
2. Educators taking this course will learn how humans actually learn and remember information. Teachers will learn how to use the brain's best systems for memory and retrieval of knowledge.
3. Teachers will learn about the brain's high and low attention cycles. They will examine the issues of ADD and ADHD and the implications for classroom discipline and attention.
4. Students will study brain research on motivation and how to improve intrinsic motivation.
5. Teachers will develop lesson or unit plans using brain compatible strategies and activities that will help boast attention, motivation, learning and student achievement.

Write a two or three-page final application paper regarding your experience and understanding of the book Teaching with the Brain in Mind. The essay should be in an area of interest that is relevant to your teaching and life experience. Write about your own experience and how you will apply the information in the book to your methodology or classroom. Alternative options to the final essay could be a classroom activity or project, a lesson plan or unit-plan.

Total assignments include:

1. Chapter Reviews
2. Final Application Essay (or alternative assignment)
3. Video Review/reflection Brain Plasticity