Intro Principles of Mind, Brain, and Education Science (Teaching and Learning)

How can we bridge the gap between the neuroscience lab and the classroom? 🧠 Join Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa, Ph.D. as she shares the results of a groundbreaking Delphi panel study, where international experts reached a consensus on the fundamental truths of the human brain and their direct applications in teaching. To build a truly evidence-based practice, we must first "get rid of the junk" by debunking common neuromyths—such as the left-brain/right-brain dichotomy, the 10% myth, or the idea of fixed learning styles. Once we clear away this misinformation, we can focus on the 6 Core Principles that are true for all human brains from birth until death: 1. Uniqueness: Human brains are as unique as our faces. This individuality dictates how we must approach differentiated instruction. 2. Different Potentials: Every brain is prepared differently for various tasks due to a unique combination of genetics and environmental influences. 3. Prior Experience: All new learning is filtered through what we already know. As teachers, we must consciously tie new concepts to a student’s positive prior knowledge. 4. Constant Change: The brain is never static. It changes at a molecular level every single day—often before these changes are even visible in a student's behavior. 5. Neuroplasticity: Plasticity is the physical manifestation of learning. This flexibility exists throughout our entire lives, meaning every student has the potential to grow given the right time and space. 6. Memory and Attention: These are the essential pillars of the learning cycle. Without memory and attention, new learning simply cannot occur. By understanding these six universal principles, educators can better select high-quality interventions and create excellent learning experiences that align with how the brain naturally functions. 📌 Explore more resources: Visit our website to find tools, research, and guidelines for applying the learning sciences in your classroom: www.thelearningsciences.com