Neuroscience-based Strategies for Engaging Young Learners (ECE540)

There has been substantial growth in developmental neuroscience knowledge in the past three decades, yielding greater understandings about how early brain development can set trajectories to influence lifelong learning and development. However, the translation of findings from neuroscience to educational practice has not been straightforward. ECE540 Translating Neuroscience Research into Strategies to Engage Young Learners aims to raise educators’ awareness about popular neuromyths, to be more informed about relevant neuroscience concepts that can help them re-think what they know about young children’s learning and development. Class activities and resources will support educators’ development of developmentally appropriate, child-centric and play-based strategies to engage young minds; as well as encourage educators to be more reflective about their interactions with children and parents.

• Brain architecture and neuroplasticity
• Educational neuromyths
• Sources of neuroscience research and translations into educational work
• Self-regulation
• Executive functions
• Interacting with young children
• Spectrum of playful learning experiences
• Responsive educational environments
• Child-centric methods of engagement
• Facilitating child reflection and reasoning
• Developmental considerations and supporting neurodivergence
• Partnering with parents

• Discuss relevant key concepts in neuroscience and persistent educational neuromyths
• Assess one’s beliefs against relevant evidence found in neuroscience research
• Evaluate one’s understanding of neurodivergence in young children
• Assess the reliability of sources of information
• Design activities to engage young children
• Critique one’s use of serve and return interactions