Using insights of neuroscience to improve teaching and learning | Veerle Ponnet | TEDxPatosdeMinas

Summary

In this inspiring talk, the speaker shares their journey from working in tourism to becoming an expert in language teaching and educational neuroscience. They discuss the importance of emotions in learning, explaining that emotional experiences help solidify memories and enhance focus. The speaker emphasizes the value of intrinsic motivation, creating a safe and supportive learning environment, and fostering passion in education. They call for the inclusion of basic educational neuroscience knowledge in teacher training to improve teaching practices and inspire an evolution in education for the future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Language learning can come naturally to some, but teaching it effectively requires specialized knowledge and skills.
• 😀 Emotion is essential for learning to stick; we remember emotionally charged events better than neutral ones.
• 😀 Educational neuroscience combines psychology, neuroscience, and education to improve teaching and learning.
• 😀 A positive, creative, and brain-friendly classroom atmosphere is key to fostering effective learning.
• 😀 Intrinsic motivation, where students are motivated from within, is more effective for learning than extrinsic motivation.
• 😀 Learning requires students to take responsibility, and educators can’t simply ‘fill their heads’ with knowledge.
• 😀 Fear of failure and mistakes often holds students back, so creating a safe space for trial and error is important.
• 😀 Teachers’ emotions are contagious—when educators show passion for their subject, students are more likely to engage.
• 😀 A growth mindset, where students learn from mistakes, is crucial for a productive learning environment.
• 😀 Basic knowledge of educational neuroscience should be part of teacher training and educational programs to improve teaching practices.
• 😀 The future of education is bright when we embrace and share the knowledge of educational neuroscience to foster a better learning environment for all.

Q & A

What motivated the speaker to transition from working in tourism to teaching languages?

The speaker's experience in tourism led to a growing interest in language learning, which eventually prompted others to ask for help in learning languages. This realization that teaching language requires more than just knowing a language inspired the speaker to pursue further studies in linguistics and neuroscience.

What is the significance of educational neuroscience in the context of teaching and learning?

Educational neuroscience combines psychology, neuroscience, and education to improve teaching and learning. It helps educators understand how the brain processes and retains knowledge, emphasizing the importance of emotions in learning and the creation of a positive learning environment.

Why is emotion crucial in the learning process?

Emotion plays a vital role in acquiring, retaining, and recalling knowledge. Emotionally charged experiences are better remembered by the brain, making it essential to evoke positive emotions in students to facilitate effective learning.

What exercise did the speaker use to demonstrate the role of emotion in memory?

The speaker asked the audience to close their eyes and recall a happy memory, prompting them to recall specific details such as location, people, weather, and feelings associated with the memory. This exercise illustrated how emotionally significant events are more easily remembered.

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards, such as prizes, and fades once the reward is obtained. Intrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from within, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and be motivated by personal growth and satisfaction.

How can educators help foster intrinsic motivation in students?

Educators can foster intrinsic motivation by creating a learning environment that promotes autonomy, encourages active participation, and emphasizes the personal benefits of learning. Helping students see the value in their own development is key.

What role do mistakes play in the learning process?

Mistakes are an integral part of learning. They provide opportunities for growth and improvement. The speaker compared learning to riding a bike, where mistakes and failures are natural steps toward success. A supportive environment that allows mistakes is crucial for learning.

Why is it important for educators to model motivation and a positive attitude?

Educators' emotions are contagious. When teachers show passion and enthusiasm for their subject, it can inspire students to feel the same way. Positive emotions help create an engaging and motivating learning environment.

How does neuroscience explain the concept of emotional contagion in the classroom?

Neuroscience reveals that our brains are social organs, meaning that we can 'catch' emotions from others. When educators express strong positive emotions, such as enthusiasm or passion, students are likely to mirror those emotions, enhancing their engagement and motivation.

What is the speaker's opinion on the integration of educational neuroscience into the education system?

The speaker believes that basic knowledge of educational neuroscience should be integrated into primary, secondary, and university education, as well as teacher training programs. This knowledge can help improve teaching practices and promote a more effective learning environment.