A considerable about of information is known about how humans learn, but college instructors often lack this knowledge. This endorsement experience will introduce instructors to some of these principles through readings selected by Stephen Chew of Stamford University, a leader in translating cognitive science principles to university instruction. The goal is to help instructors improve their teaching by more closely aligning their teaching methods with what is known about how humans learn.
We will meet in person for one hour a week for each week of the semester at a time that works for all participants. The articles to be read will be selected from “A DIY Guide to Teacher Professional Development,” Stephen L. Chew, “The Teaching Professor, October 16 2023 (non-gated version: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376392725). This article by Chew lists 21 open access articles grouped into ten “cognitive challenges” that instructors face. At the first meeting, we will select 14 of the readings (thus, participants will have some agency). At the subsequent sessions we will discuss the assigned article with a focus on the questions listed in the answer to Question 13. Note that participants will reflection both before and after the meeting. To receive credit, participants must attend at least 10 of the meetings.
Information and registration: To register please contact Bill Goffe at wlg13@psu.edu
Sponsored by: The College of Liberal Arts, Penn State University Park