Abstract Book of the 2nd International Academic Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities
Year: 2025
[PDF]
The Science of Learning: Connecting Neuroscience and Education
Zorana Vasiljevic
ABSTRACT:
The paper explores the intersection of neuroscience and education, focusing on how insights from brain science can inform and enhance classroom practice. Drawing on recent research in cognitive neuroscience, it examines the implications of the mind-body connection—particularly the roles of sleep, stress, exercise, and emotion—for learning and memory. The concept of neuroplasticity is discussed, emphasizing how the brain forms memory “chunks” that enhance understanding, creativity, and academic performance. By examining the neural processes involved in learning, the presentation highlights how the growth mindset operates not just as a motivational framework but as a neural process that optimizes learning through adaptive brain mechanisms. Practical strategies are provided to address common learning challenges such as procrastination, illusions of competence, and overlearning, all of which can hinder long-term memory retention and self-regulated learning. The presentation also explores how sleep, physical activity, and emotional regulation support cognitive function, promoting more effective study habits, better attention, and retention of information. Additionally, it critiques the persistence of neuromyths in education, advocating for a clearer, interdisciplinary dialogue between neuroscience and teaching practice. By bridging the gap between these fields, educators can apply evidence-based strategies that foster more effective, personalized, and sustainable learning outcomes for students, ultimately enhancing both academic achievement and well-being.
Keywords: brain-based learning; growth mindset; memory; neuroplasticity; procrastination