Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/building-community-habits-of-learning
Course Overview
In the online education landscape, Coursera offers a plethora of courses, but few are as enriching and nuanced as ‘Uncommon Sense Teaching: Part 2, Building Community and Habits of Learning.’ This course aims to unlock the hidden strengths of neurodiversity while enabling participants to build effective learning habits in their classrooms.
What to Expect
Throughout the course, educators will delve into specific areas that are crucial for understanding diverse learning needs. Each week is structured around key themes, making complex concepts accessible and engaging.
Week 1: Motivation, Stress, and Character Change
The first week addresses the significant roles of motivation and stress in the learning environment. With modern neuroscience as a backdrop, participants will identify how emotional responses, such as those influenced by the amygdala, shape the learning experience. The emphasis on curiosity and heart-fueled teaching lays a solid foundation for the course.
Week 2: Procedural vs. Declarative Learning
In the second week, the course takes a more technical turn as it explores the dual pathways of learning—procedural and declarative. Educators will gain valuable insights into how the brain categorizes tasks and how understanding this can enhance both learning and classroom management. With practical applications, this week equips teachers to run their classrooms more efficiently.
Week 3: Intellectual Humility and Critical Thinking
This week’s focus on intellectual humility introduces participants to the balance of learning speeds among students. Understanding the strengths of those who struggle can lead to a more inclusive classroom environment. Participants will leave with strategies for fostering critical thinking skills across diverse learning styles.
Neurodiversity and Tailored Teaching Approaches
The course wraps up with discussions on neurodiversity, emphasizing the importance of tailoring teaching approaches to meet individual student needs. By recognizing and nurturing students’ unique learning styles, educators can facilitate a more efficient and engaging learning process. The provided templates and insights for lesson planning will be particularly beneficial for teachers eager to implement what they’ve learned.
Final Thoughts
‘Uncommon Sense Teaching: Part 2’ is a thought-provoking course that combines research with practical strategies to enhance teaching effectiveness. Educators who take this course will not only improve their understanding of neurodiversity but will also learn how to create a supportive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment. I highly recommend it to any educator looking to deepen their knowledge and enrich their teaching practices.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/building-community-habits-of-learning