Uncomplicating Impact: Using Cognitive Science to Elevate All Student Learning

Outline

1. Introduction and Objectives (15 minutes)

Content: Overview of session objectives and the importance of integrating cognitive science with rigor, engagement, and motivation.
Engagement: An activity where participants discover that if there is not a clear vision of success from the teacher-leader, then they may lead students to different levels of success.
Activities: Quick poll using a show of hands or a digital tool like Mentimeter to gauge participants’ familiarity with cognitive science principles.

2. Understanding Cognitive Science Principles (30 minutes)

Content: Presentation on key cognitive science principles relevant to education (e.g., encoding, storage, retrieval)
Engagement: Interactive discussion with real-life examples and Q&A.
Activities: Think-pair-share activity where participants discuss how they currently apply or could apply these principles in their classrooms.

3. Integrating Rigor, Engagement, and Motivation (40 minutes)

Content: Explanation of a model that combines rigor, engagement, and motivation to enhance student learning.
Engagement: Group discussion on the components of the model and its application.
Activities: Small group activity where participants brainstorm ways to integrate these components into their teaching practices.

4. Practical Strategies and Techniques (45 minutes)

Content: Detailed presentation of practical, research-backed strategies to enhance memory, critical thinking, and student agency.
Engagement: Demonstration of strategies with participant involvement.
Activities: Hands-on activities where participants practice the strategies, such as creating lesson plans or designing classroom activities.

5. Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment (30 minutes)

Content: Discussion on the importance of inclusivity and how to create an inclusive learning environment.
Engagement: Sharing of personal experiences and best practices.
Activities: Role-playing scenarios to address diverse learning needs and promote equity in the classroom.

6. Actionable Tips and Takeaways (30 minutes)

Content: Summary of key points and actionable tips for immediate implementation.
Engagement: Open floor for final questions and reflections.
Activities: Participants write down their top three takeaways and share them with a partner.

7. Conclusion and Next Steps (15 minutes)

Content: Recap of the session and encouragement to apply the learned strategies.
Engagement: Motivational closing remarks.
Activities: Distribution of a digital resource pack with additional reading materials and tools.
Process and Engagement Tactics:

Peer-to-Peer Interaction: Frequent opportunities for participants to discuss and share ideas with each other.
Device-Based Activities: Use of digital tools like polls and interactive Q&A platforms to keep participants engaged.
Hands-On Activities: Practical exercises where participants can apply what they’ve learned in real-time.
Games or Contests: Incorporation of friendly competitions to reinforce learning and maintain energy levels.

Supporting research

Articles
“The Science of Learning” by Deans for Impact - This comprehensive report summarizes cognitive science research on how students learn and provides practical strategies for educators. https://www.deansforimpact.org/files/assets/thescienceoflearning.pdf

“Applying Cognitive Science in the Classroom” by Daniel Willingham - This article discusses how cognitive science can inform teaching practices to improve student outcomes. https://educationrickshaw.com/2023/04/29/s2e26-dan-willingham-on-applying-cognitive-science-to-k12-education/

Books
"Powerful Teaching: Unleash the Science of Learning" by Pooja K. Agarwal and Patrice M. Bain - This book provides tangible strategies for retrieval practices among others to help teachers in the classroom.

“Why Don’t Students Like School?” by Daniel T. Willingham - This book explains cognitive principles and how they can be applied to improve teaching and learning.

“Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning” by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel - This book offers insights into effective learning strategies based on cognitive science research.

Websites
Learning Scientists - A website dedicated to the science of learning, providing resources and strategies for educators. https://www.learningscientists.org/
Cognitive Science Network (CogSciNet) - A platform that connects educators with cognitive science research and practical applications. https://www.ssrn.com/index.cfm/en/csn/