Testimonials
The Brain Based Learning academy was the Home Depot of creative, critical thinking! Through engaging and approachable methods, I was introduced to tools I never knew existed. I learned to use the tools, learn where they could be applied, and how I could use them in other resourceful ways to hit the objective we are all aiming for—to build students’ interest, curiosity and confidence. Completely based in critical thinking, with no hand feeding, I was introduced to the fundamental principles of why and how to structure lessons that never require one tried and true answer—thereby causing contemplation with dimensions—this is true critical thinking—reaching levels you just don’t come near in traditional teaching settings. This needs to become the traditional thinking setting. Routes and pathways to learning are really routes and pathways in the brain—chemical and neurological maps of how to get from here to there. Understanding the tangible science of the routes and pathways, in an approachable and non-intimidating way, allowed me to see the connection that is made through the science and the way I could approach creating lessons and environments which would keep those routes and pathways broadening and expanding. I left knowing I was a layperson wanting to become an expert.
Marcey Mihalo, Roanoke Virginia, Cave Spring Middle School, June 2010
Scheduled Workshops
The Brain, Learning, and Lesson Design: A Teacher-to-Teacher Approach to Transforming Instruction
Dates: June 11-14, 2012
Site: University of Virginia, Southwest Center, Abington, VA
Brain research applied to classroom instruction has emerged as an essential knowledge base that all instructional leaders and teachers should have. Using what we know about the brain and learning can help transform practice; however, we need more highly knowledgeable advocates in the field who can teach and coach colleagues. This intensive four-day train the trainer program equips teacher leaders with materials, workshop outlines, research-based practices, and a wealth of strategies to train and guide others in their schools and/or school systems. It is intended for teachers, curriculum specialists, and administrators who are in leadership roles, serve as instructional coaches, and oversee or provide professional development. Participants should have some background knowledge of brain research applied to practice in the classroom through previous workshops or readings.
The Brain, Learning and Lesson Design: A Teacher-to-Teacher Approach to Transforming Instruction
Dates: June 25-28, 2012
Site: Richmond, VA (specific site TBA)
Four days of intensive train-the-trainer sessions teaching you how to teach about the brain and learning.