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Constructivism: In The Brain, In The Classroom

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: June 1, 2019

Is constructivism a theory of learning, or a theory of teaching? Mike Hobbiss offers a provocative answer. Continue reading →

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But Does It Work In The Classroom? (A Hint: YES!)

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 30, 2019

A large study in five different Florida schools gives us lots of confidence that “interleaving” — mixing up different kinds of practice problems together — helps students learn. This technique takes a little extra time, but it’s highly effective and it’s free. Continue reading →

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More Contradictions in the Adolescent Sleep/Technology Debate

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 27, 2019

New research, contradicting prior research, shows that pre-bedtime screen use does lower adolescent quality of life. We can managing this contradiction best by focusing on the children right in front of us. Continue reading →

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Best Font Name Ever: “Sans Forgetica”

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 25, 2019

Australian researchers have developed a new font, “sans forgetica,” which might help students remember what they read. However, we have reason to be careful and cautious before we rely too much on this innovation. Continue reading →

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[A Specific] Movement Helped [Specific] Students Learn [A Specific] Thing

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 23, 2019

Research shows that movement can help kindergarteners understand the number line — an essential concept for math learning in general. We should not assume therefore that movement always benefits learning. Continue reading →

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Sorting Hats, Myers-Briggs, and the Perils of False Classification

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 21, 2019

The Hidden Brain podcast on the dangers of false sorting reminds teachers about the dangers of Learning Styles Theory. Continue reading →

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Not All of Us Work Effectively in a “Memory Palace”

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 19, 2019

Students with lower visuospatial aptitude don’t benefit much from “memory palaces.” This research finding leads to important classroom strategies…and to bigger questions as well. Continue reading →

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The Best Teaching Book to Read This Summer: Powerful Teaching

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 17, 2019

Powerful Teaching, by Agarwal and Bain, combines research and practical classroom strategies. The result: an ideal book for teachers who want to improve our practice. Continue reading →

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Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without...

Rebecca Gotlieb
by: Rebecca Gotlieb
Posted on: May 15, 2019

Barbara Oakley, Terrence Sejnowski, and Alistair McConville have authored a students’ guide to learning. The book,…

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Pointing Out Online Mistakes Like a “Jerk”: More Misuses of...

Andrew Watson
by: Andrew Watson
Posted on: May 13, 2019

Despite the click-bait headlines, research doesn’t show much of anything surprising or consequential about people who correct your grammar online. Continue reading →