Neuromyths: Learning About Teaching by Debunking False Ideas About the Brain

A guide to the science behind the art of teaching.

Neuromyths; flawed beliefs about learning and teaching; have the capacity to adversely affect classroom practice. In this eye-opening examination of more than seventy such beliefs, Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa debunks widely circulated myths and untangles scientific fact from pedagogical fiction. Here, teachers have an invaluable guide on how to avoid misconceptions and instead apply evidence-based practices from mind, brain and education science.

Not every teaching method touted as "brain-friendly" is supported by research findings, and misconceptions about the brain have the capacity to harm rather than help.

Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa untangles scientific fact from pedagogical fiction, debunking dozens of widely held beliefs about the brain that have made their way into the education literature. In ten central chapters on topics ranging from brain structure to classroom environments, the text traces the origins of common neuromyths; from categorising individuals as "right-brained" or "left-brained" to prevailing beliefs about multitasking or the effects of video games; and corrects the record with the most current state of knowledge.

Rather than offering pat strategies, Tokuhama-Espinosa challenges teachers curious about the brain to become learning scientists, and supplies the tools needed to evaluate research and put it to use in the classroom.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements

Introduction

1. Myths about Intelligence
2. Myths about Brain Architecture and Structure
3. Myths about Teaching and Learning
4. Myths about Human Development
5. Myths about Learning Environments
6. Myths about the Mind-Body Balance
7. Myths about Brain Plasticity
8. Myths about Memory
9. Myths about Attention
10. Myths about Language, Bilingualism, and Multilingualism
11. Key Takeaways from This Book
12. Conclusion

"Through the lens of the compelling topic of neuromyths, Dr. Tokuhama-Espinosa bridges the reader to the essential foundations of the neuroscience of mind, brain, and education. Supported by her highly comprehensive and readable analysis and explanation of most current research, this is a book that will be relished by general readers, educators, and neuroeducators."
- Judy Willis, MD, neurologist, teacher, author, neuroeducator