Neuroscience powered teaching

           Everyone educates others, and quality educators incorporate brain-friendly practices to maximise learning and wellness. 

          Teachers are brain changers.   Dr Judy Willis (ca 2018), neurologist and teacher, states, 'The implicit goal of education is to change students' brains by improving both their knowledge base and their understanding of information acquired through the guidance of their educators.'

             Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and change its structure and function based on experiences, learning, and development. It helps the brain adapt to changes, learn new information, and recover from injuries or trauma. Neuroplasticity has implications in neuroscience, education, psychology, and rehabilitation.

        The critical elements of learning design that educators use are pedagogy (the science and art of teaching), assessment (measuring what students have learned), curriculum (specifications of what to teach, often provided by a relevant authority), and resources. Figure 1 provides an overview of learning design for quality teachers who expertly use curriculum and assessment. Resources are selected based on pedagogical choices.

Embrace the Power of Neuroeducation!

       As you continue your journey into the fascinating world of neuroeducation, remember that you are entering a field with the potential to revolutionise how we understand and lead learning. By integrating neuroscience insights, you will better understand how the brain processes information, makes decisions and retains knowledge.

       This understanding will enhance your learning experiences and empower you to create more effective, inclusive, and engaging educational environments for others. The intersection of neuroscience and education is a dynamic and evolving frontier, offering endless opportunities to innovate and make meaningful contributions to the field.

       Stay curious, stay inspired, and let the science of the brain guide you toward becoming a leader in education. Your journey into neuroeducation is more than an academic pursuit - it's a chance to impact lives and shape the future of learning." 

Are you a Neuroplastician?

         Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change and adapt, has significant real-world implications for learning, memory, behaviour, and recovery from brain injuries. 

     Neuroplasticians, whether researchers, clinicians, or practitioners, apply this concept to enhance brain function. They work in fields like neuroscience, psychology, neurorehabilitation, and education, using cognitive training, brain stimulation, sensory stimulation, physical exercise, and rehabilitation exercises. They collaborate with other professionals to develop strategies that support brain health and maximise human potential, emphasising the importance of social connections, exercise, nutrition, and sleep for optimal brain function.  

Brief Bio

          Professor Ken Purnell, Head of Educational Neuroscience at CQUniversity Australia, has held significant roles over three decades, including Head of the School of Education and Associate Dean. Actively involved with the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority since 1992, he has contributed to numerous committees. He received the Outstanding Alumni Award from Western Michigan University in 2014 and holds a PhD in cognitive neuroscience from UNSW. Ken's work focuses on translating neuroscientific findings into flexible educational programs, impacting over 52,000 students globally through short courses on FutureLearn. He supervises four PhD candidates, with one recent graduate receiving multiple prestigious awards.