Instructional workshops are designed to assist faculty in the endeavor to strengthen instruction in a specific topical area, including the science of learning, inclusive pedagogies, and socioemotional skills.
“Fall”-ing for the Science of Learning Series
Regardless of the discipline, a goal of teaching is to promote neuroreorganization or – in its more common name – learning! In the two workshops of this series, we will discuss the fundamentals of how nervous systems change and how understanding the physiology of learning can provide better experiences and learning in our classrooms.
How We Learn: Changing Brains Is an ART
Date: Tuesday, Oct. 12th
Time: 1:40-2:30 p.m. (x-period) on Zoom
Facilitators: Shawn Charlton, Jeff Padberg, Mita Puri
Join us in an exploration of the fundamentals of the neuroscience of learning. This foray into the science of how brains change is designed to help everyone – regardless of their comfort with biology – understand how teaching and learning can be improved through the science of learning. Register online!
How We Learn Better: Understanding Arousal’s Role in Learning
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 16th
Time: 1:40-2:30 p.m. (x-period) on Zoom
Facilitators: Shawn Charlton, Jeff Padberg, Mita Puri
Continue our exploration of the fundamentals of the neuroscience of learning! This workshop focuses on how understanding physiological reactions – such as those linked to stress and arousal – can be leveraged to improve learning and memory. We will explore components of the nervous system that drive our responses to stress, and learn some practical methods that can improve the classroom experience for our students. Register online!
BeWell Series
Healthy Mind Platter: Build a Balanced Mental Health Routine
Date: Friday, September 24
Time: 12-1 p.m. on Zoom
Facilitator: Moriah Bruner (wellness partnership)
Are you deficient in a daily regimen necessary for mental well-being? During this workshop, we will explore Dr. Dan Siegel’s Healthy Mind Platter. Similar to the Healthy Eating Plate, the Healthy Mind Platter includes seven essential mental activities necessary for optimum mental health in daily life. There is no specific recipe for a healthy mind, but it can be helpful to map out our day to include the essential mental activities we need to thrive. Through a simple exercise, participants will assess what percentage of time is currently spent in each area and then establish a plan for a more balanced routine. Like a balanced diet, there are many combinations that can work well. Register online!
Demonstrating Care for Colleagues
Date: Friday, November 12
Time: 12-1 p.m. on Zoom
Facilitator: Moriah Bruner and Dr. Kevin Rowell (wellness partnership)
Because we see our colleagues on a regular basis, we often can tell if they are struggling emotionally. But most of us don’t have the training to know how to offer support and guidance to our peers who are suffering with mental-health concerns or showing signs of overwhelm. So how should we help? During this workshop we will explore the “Notice-Ask-Refer” model, as well as discuss other informal strategies to demonstrate compassion and empathy for our colleagues. Register online!