Understanding the Human Brain: A New Frontier in Education Reform or Yet Another Passing Fad?

• In Event: 75.043 - MTCC Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: Policy Implementation and Scale

Abstract

Abstract: This paper reviews the emerging field of neuroeducation as a possible lever for school reform, particularly for our most underserved students. I argue that while neuroeducation holds potential for improving teaching and learning, it also risks failing to substantially impact classrooms. Specifically, the current field is: 1) unidirectional, 2) decontextualized from the practice of teaching, and 3) lacking a research infrastructure. I propose that neuroeducation may hold promise as a means of reform if it can be redesigned as bidirectional; grounded in teaching and learning; and supported by an infrastructure that enables the development, translation, and revision of research questions and findings across both educators and neuroscientists.

Author

• Christine M. Neumerski, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor