T-540 Cognition and the Art of Instruction
David Perkins
This course explores the rich implications of cognitive science for the art of effective instruction--ways of approaching teaching and learning that foster deep understanding, better thinking, and the flexible transfer of knowledge. We will survey key concepts and findings and explore their relevance to education. Our discourse will range from learning theory to grounded examples from classrooms and other settings. The examples will show both how theory and research inform practice and how practice informs research questions and broader theory. We will probe what it means to integrate the art and science of instruction into coherent learning experiences. The ideas speak to a wide range of subjects and ages, including adult learning. This course is relevant to anyone concerned with powerful, well-designed teaching and learning. Term papers are based on personally chosen design projects that reflect individual interests. For example, students in the Technology, Innovation and Education Program have done technology-based projects, and students in the Arts in Education Program arts-based projects.
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