Resources: books, sites, inspiration, Ephemera
"Switch asks the following question: Why is it so hard to make lasting changes in our companies, in our communities, and in our own lives? The primary obstacle, say the Heaths, is a conflict that’s built into our brains. Psychologists have discovered that our minds are ruled by two different systems—the rational mind and the emotional mind—that compete for control. The rational mind wants a great beach body; the emotional mind wants that Oreo cookie. The rational mind wants to change something at work; the emotional mind loves the comfort of the existing routine. This tension can doom a change effort—but if it is overcome, change can come quickly." http://heathbrothers.com/books/switch/
""[The] conclusions Dr. Zull draws with respect to effective teaching and learning are sound. Readers with a background in neuroscience may be particularly intrigued by the application of common neurobiological principles to the practice of teaching and learning. In spite of the complexities of brain biology and teaching/learning theories, Dr. Zull presents a clear and accessible discussion. The text is enhanced by numerous case examples of teaching and learning situations both from Dr. Zull's experience and those of other teachers he has counseled. The Art of Changing the Brain is engaging and logically organized, providing readers with practical suggestions for applying the concepts in the classroom and other learning situations. The final chapters, in particular, reflect more deeply on the nature of teaching and learning activities that have the greatest potential to result in functional changes in neural connections. Readers will feel encouraged and eager to integrate the concepts into their own philosophy of teaching and learning."
- Effective Teaching
- Effective Teaching
...Speaking of neuroscience, the New York Times recently published an article entitled "This Is Your Brain on Writing"
Avoiding the Trap of "Q & A Teaching" This short 2014 Edutopia article by Petra Claffin was an eye-opener for me. I have always felt that something was off about my Q & A technique; too often, I catch myself asking questions that sound like tricks or gimmicks to stimulate student engagement. Claffin's article clearly identifies pitfalls of Q & A sessions, and offers concrete solutions for avoiding them. Another helpful aspect of this article is that it really does illustrate a Responsive Teaching mindset.