Cognitive Science in the Classroom – Putting Theory into Practice to Deepen Learning – Digital Download

• The theory of cognitive science – how we learn and remember
• Defining the principles in the context of planning sequential subject specific and cross-curricular learning
• Creating the right conditions for learning linked to cognitive science research
• Practical application of the theory in the classroom – a focus on pedagogy, assessment and deep learning
• Putting cognitive science into practice – collaboration, CPD and planning next steps

Session 1

The theory of cognitive science – how we learn and remember

• A review of the theory and a focus specifically on how cognitive science is at the heart of understanding cognition and learning
• Applying the science in terms of memory, learning and the brain
• Some of the research and the findings of how the theory is translated into practical classroom application

Session 2

Defining the principles of cognitive science in the context of classroom practice and focusing on practical opportunities to use these principles

• Spaced learning that spreads the learning over time
• Interleaving, where pupils mix, or interleave, different subject matter or topics
• Retrieval practice where there are different ways to recall information from memory
• Managing cognitive load and avoiding cognitive overload
• Dual coding or multi-media learning using verbal and non-verbal stimuli

Session 3

Creating the right conditions for learning linked to cognitive science research

• Strategies for teaching that make a difference and create the right conditions for deep learning
• Knowing your pupils and playing to their strengths and their individuality
• Reflecting on the physical environment and its impact on learning
• Creating innovative pathways for learning subject and cross – curricular knowledge, skills and concepts

Session 4

Practical application of the theory in the classroom – a focus on pedagogy, assessment and deep learning

• Developing schema and curriculum maps that allow for connections within subjects and across the curriculum
• Managing cognitive load and avoiding cognitive overload 
• Creating profound opportunities for collaborative problem solving
• Scaffolding learning to aid understanding and foster deep learning

Session 5

Putting cognitive science into practice – collaboration, CPD and planning next steps

• Planning a strategy for change or consolidation of practice in the classroom
• A review of some tools to help focus on next steps
• Considering the implications for individuals, teams and whole school change and challenge in relation to the theories presented by research
• A focus on goals for success and how to measure impact

For Senior Leaders – who want to learn more about this ever-growing body of research and how developing a deeper understanding of cognitive science and how it translates into classroom practice can have a positive impact on learning and achievement

For middle and subject leaders – Who can support their teams whether in the wider arena of curriculum, teaching and learning or well-being or for subject specific leaders who can work with their teams to look at how a deeper understanding of cognitive science can help to deepen knowledge and raise achievement in curriculum planning and in new approaches to pedagogy and learning

For Teachers and Support staff – Who will benefit greatly from learning new techniques and applying the theory into their own practical approaches to teaching and learning. This course will also be of great benefit to the early career teacher who may not have had a great deal of learning in this arena as part of their training.

Creating CPD that is sustainable and cost effective

We design all our courses so that you can take your learning back to share with your colleagues. The materials, resources and activities are available electronically for you to download and use again.

We know that where delegates can share and cascade their learning with their colleagues they consolidate their learning and others benefit from that learning. In this way the professional development has a far greater impact on individual, team and whole school improvement.