Follow the Science Series Introduction
In this first article of the "Follow the Science" series, you will learn about the goals of the series and get an overview of the concepts that will be covered.
The goal of this series is to share how we constructed a learning experience based on the results of modern cognitive science, learning science, and educational psychology. Traditional educational strategies were considered suspect unless they were backed by science and proven to be effective.
As an accelerated software development bootcamp, we were free of the constraints of the existing higher education system, and my hopes were to construct an effective, engaging, and hopefully fun learning experience based on science, not dogma.
Audience
I'm sharing this information in the hopes that it can provide some value, or generate productive conversations, for educators, students, policymakers or educational designers who are interested in learning science and coding education.
When educators follow the science, they position themselves at the vanguard of pedagogical innovation. This pursuit allows for constant evolution of teaching methods, making learning more effective and enjoyable.
Core Principles
Above the science, I have five driving goals for the learning experience.
- Developing general problem-solving competence.
- Student ownership of learning.
- Personalizing the learning experience.
- Differentiating to match individual zones of proximal development.
- Coaching over traditional teaching.
The Science of Learning
Modern education has access to some exciting developments over the last 20 years, thanks in large part to breakthroughs in learning and cognitive science. As educators, course designers, or facilitators of learning experiences, it's crucial to stay abreast of this cutting-edge research.
Why?
Because the insights it offers allow us to create educational environments that are more effective, inclusive, and inspiring. This focus is not a luxury but a necessity for several compelling reasons.
Here are some high level concepts that will be explored in future articles that we use to guide how to nurture the experience.
- Project based learning
- Cognitive load theory
- Faded worked examples
- Reflection, interleaving, spacing, variation, elaboration, and retrieval
- Scaffolding
- Coaching/learning culture
Starting the Conversation
I will be sharing these article on various social media platform in the hopes that we can all learn from each other. I am hoping that you can engage with this content to share real experiences, failures, and successes just as I will.
I have learned more by reading and listening to others (including the students) than I have by using my own creative thinking skills.
Meeting the Needs of a Digital Age
In an era where technology is ubiquitous, cognitive research often intersects with technology and learning.
By following the science, we can ensure that our teaching methods evolve as our understanding of the learning process deepens. It's a commitment to never settling for "good enough," constantly seeking to understand our students better, and refining our craft to deliver the best possible educational outcomes.
I look forward to learning from you.