Rethinking Learning: Myths, Methods, and Effective Education 2400-ZEWW954-OG

The course introduces students to evidence-based strategies for improving learning outcomes and designing effective educational interventions. Drawing on insights from cognitive science, students will explore foundational concepts such as memory retention, attention, and motivation, alongside cutting-edge innovations in educational tools and technologies.

Key topics include:

• Dispelling common educational myths and understanding their origins.
• Implementing proven techniques like retrieval practice, interleaving, and spaced repetition to optimize learning.
• Assessing innovative educational technologies and determining their efficacy based on empirical evidence.
• The role of motivation and emotions in learning, and strategies to foster positive student engagement.
• Designing curriculum aligned with cognitive science principles to maximize long-term retention and skill development.
The course will integrate theoretical content with practical application through hands-on exercises, case studies, and collaborative projects. Students will also critically evaluate educational methods using meta-analytical approaches and explore tools like quizzes, flashcards, and gamification to enhance learner outcomes.

By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive toolkit for applying cognitive science to real-world educational challenges, preparing them to design and evaluate effective teaching methodologies

Type of course

general courses

Course coordinators

Tomasz Gajderowicz

Learning outcomes

By completing the course, students will be able to:

• Critically analyze myths and facts about education using evidence-based approaches.
• Apply cognitive science principles to improve teaching and learning strategies.
• Design curriculum and interventions that align with proven learning methods.
• Evaluate educational technologies and innovations for their efficacy.
• Foster motivation and engagement in learning environments.

Assessment criteria

• Participation in discussions and group activities: 50%
• Quiz: 50%
The final assessment will involve creating a comprehensive proposal for implementing an innovative teaching method or curriculum design based on cognitive science principles. Students will present their ideas, supported by empirical evidence and real-world application examples.

Additional information

Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 2400-ZEWW954-OG in USOSweb