Applying cognitive science principles to primary science
Written by: Sarah Earle and Kendra McMahon
7 min read
Dr Sarah Earle and Dr Kendra McMahon, School of Education, Bath Spa University, UK
Introduction
Cognitive science provides insights into learning that can inform practice in education, but the plethora of publications and, in some cases, the lab-based nature of studies that are remote from classroom realities make it difficult for practitioners to use this evidence to support or adjust their teaching. Considering subject-specific applications of cognitive science offers one way forward. In this article, we will explore two ways in which cognitive science principles can be applied to the teaching of science in the primary school. Approaches to managing cognitive load and retrieval practice will be exemplified, with reference to examples drawn from the Teacher Assessment in Primary Science (TAPS) project (web link in the references). TAPS works with teachers across the UK to co-research practice and co-develop resources to support the teaching and assessment of science in primary and E
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