Robin Wright wrightr@umn.edu Metadidaxis Robin Wright wrightr@umn.edu

After four years of college, what should you be able to do?

Frederico Unglaub, Student, University of Colorado Engage us Challenge us Help us develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills Make your learning goals transparent to us Provide opportunities for research Use analogies, not jargon Make learning relevant Give us ownership of our learning Infect us with your enthusiasm about the natural world Among the many voices represented are those of students. The students at the meeting had a lot to say about their education. They want to be challenged, and to learn how to think and communicate. They want real research experiences. And they want what they are learning to be relevant and connected to real life. And the action items listed in the report reflect their perspective. Frederico Unglaub, Student, University of Colorado C. Brewer, U MT, 2/2010 4

What is learning? formation of new synapses between neurons in your brain learning is brain change http://www.yalemedicalgroup.org/images/dxrad/mri-brain.jpg http://www.med.upenn.edu/ins/faculty/balicego.htm

the art of “changing the brain” What is teaching? the art of “changing the brain” creating conditions that promote formation of new synapses in our students’ brains Zull (The Art of Changing the Brain, 2002) http://www.yalemedicalgroup.org/images/dxrad/mri-brain.jpg

How do people learn? Prior knowledge: To learn something new, I have to use what I already know. Knowledge organization: How I organize my knowledge can help or hinder my understanding. Community: I can learn more in socially supported interactions. Motivation: My motivation to learn affects what and how much I learn. Difference: How I learn is not exactly the same as another person. Metacognition: I learn more when I consciously monitor my learning. See Chapter 6: Learning and Understanding: Seven Principles; NRC Council 2003, Learning & Understanding: Improving Advanced Study of Mathematics and Science in U.S. High Schools; see also “How People Learn” NRC Council 1999)

Retrieval

Learning vs Teaching Learning Teaching Process that occurs in individual’s brain as result of experiences Can be detected indirectly by products or performance Produces lasting change in knowledge, behaviors, or attitudes

Groups Stand in alphabetical order based on the name of your school 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 12