Teaching Brain Science: The Role of Neuroplasticity and Academic Growth

3 Units
Online Self-Paced

Course Description

Explain the Role of Neuroplasticity in Cognitive Development

Incorporate neuroplasticity principles into daily classroom practices. This course will provide basic explanations of neuroplasticity and its significant role in academic growth. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the brain's capacity to reorganize and form new connections can enhance learning and support student development. This course offers research-based strategies for educators to apply brain science principles in the classroom, fostering an environment that promotes resilience, growth mindset, and academic achievement. Ideal for those in education seeking to integrate advanced cognitive research into their instructional practices. Implementing these practices into a learning environment has shown to be successful in a range of K-12 classrooms including under-performing, high ELL population and low socioeconomic populations.

Course Details

Number or Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course is designed to benefit a wide range of professionals involved in the education system including K-14 educators, administrators, counselors and support staff in the field of education.

Course Format: Online Self-Paced

Technical Requirements

Course Options

Course Date Units Price

What You Will Learn

  • Understand the concept of neuroplasticity and its impact on cognitive development and academic growth
  • Explore evidence-based strategies for applying brain science principles to enhance student learning and support academic success
  • Develop an implementation plan to create a classroom environment that promotes resilience, adaptability, and academic achievement through the application of neuroplasticity principles

Instructors

Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.

Why USD?

The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.

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Learning Method Information

Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.

Online Self-Paced

Our online self-paced courses are designed to provide flexibility and autonomy for learners. Unlike traditional classroom methods, which require attendance at scheduled times, self-paced courses allow you to progress through the material at your own speed within a six-month period from the time of enrollment.  Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your assignments and exams. Grades are based on completed projects, assignments and exams.

Key differences from traditional classroom methods:

  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.
  • No assigned due dates for assignments; you set your own schedule.
  • Asynchronous learning, meaning you can work on assignments anytime.
  • No discussion forums and no interaction with others enrolled in the course.
  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.

Structure of Online Self-Paced Courses:

The content is divided into learning modules, each covering one or more topics. Within each module, you can expect the following components:

  • Module Introduction: Outlines what you can expect to learn in the module.
  • Required Readings and Presentations: Includes textbooks, articles, journals, websites, and audio/video presentations.
  • Assignments: May include written assignments, quizzes, blogs, and other activities based on the readings and presentations.
  • Module Conclusion: Reviews the topics covered and what you should have learned.

Typically, there is a final project, paper, or exam due in the last module that synthesizes all the topics covered throughout the course. The design of the learning modules follows a consistent rhythm to help you manage your time effectively. Grades will be available within two weeks of final submission, transcripts will be automatically mailed out following grades being posted and approved. Please allow 3-4 weeks from when final grades are posted to receive a transcript.

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Small class sizes with real-world educators are an important part of the USD experience.

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Our educator courses offer flexible course formats and class times to help you balance your work, USD studies, and family life.