What if... neuroscience could change education?

Presented by Dr Anna Wilson

Is it true we only use 10% of our brain?
Does "brain training" work?
What does the teenage brain look like?
Are differences in learning reflected in the brain?
Could brain research help reduce the achievement tail in NZ?

The potential of neuroscience for education has long been touted, and is reflected in current trends; for example books on "brain-based learning", or "brain training" apps on mobile phones. While some of these claims are best described as "neuromyths", others have a sound grounding in research. Critically, modern brain imaging methodologies allow us to observe brain activity in normal, learning participants, including children, and are thus providing an exponential increase in knowledge of the brain and learning. I will discuss some of the latest findings from this new international field of "educational neuroscience", and their relevance to current and future educational practice.