This course will help to explain many of the principles of cognitive science such as cognitive load theory (CLT), dual coding, interleaving, spaced practice, retrieval practice, metacognition, and why and how these help students learn. The course links theory to practice by exploring the research to find the most effective strategies to improve memory, learning and ultimately revision for examinations at GCSE & A level based on cognitive science.

Who is this course for?

This course is essential for classroom practitioners in all disciplines to aid their delivery and the revision strategies they share with their students at GCSE & A level

Course Outline

Understanding Cognition – how we learn

• Developing different types of Knowledge – declarative & procedural.
• Knowledge vs skills or knowledge through skills
• Cognitive load theory and why we need to consider it
• Dual coding in the classroom
• Chunking ideas to improve memory

Cognition : Constructing & Organising Knowledge

• Knowledge improves thinking and thinking improves knowledge
• Developing schemas and making them visible
• Explicit instruction and helping children understand how they learn

Improving memory & retention for GCSE & A level Exams

• What do we think memory is? What are the different types of memory?
• Creating Desirable Difficulties to Enhance Learning
• Evaluating Rosenshine’s Principles & Dunlosky’s Strategies to boost learning
• Understanding why we forget
• Plenary: 10 strategies to improve memory

Assessment & Retrieval Practice in the Classroom

• A meaningful assessment strategy to build knowledge & understanding
• Strategies to embed retrieval practice into your curriculum
• Building metacognition & self reflection into summative assessments
• Long term strategies to improve student revision technique

Presenter Profile

John Medlicott (@johnmedlicott) is the Director of JMC Education (www.jmcinset.com), having held a number of key academic and pastoral leadership roles in schools and colleges. John still teaches in an Ofsted Outstanding School and has taught for over 20 years. As a teacher trainer & school improvement consultant he works with schools across the UK and internationally. He is regularly graded as “outstanding” by delegates on their evaluation forms. John has spoken recently on challenge and differentiation at a National Conference for Deputy Head teachers and is a regular Keynote speaker and workshop provider in School Leadership and Teaching and Learning.

Feedback from teachers on this course

“Incredibly engaging and Inspiring”
Katherine Letts, Assistant Head, St Laurence School
"So interesting and really up my street"
Andrea Davis, SENCO, Bromsgrove School

Cost: £150 per delegate

Booking Form

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