This interactive workshop, based on work from the Brain Wonders website as well as training modules developed by Erikson s Faculty Development Project on the Brain, serves as an introduction to brain development with an emphasis on the interplay between biology and environment. In addition, the workshop serves as a tool for interpreting current research as well as information presented in the popular press and in product and seminar advertising and literature. Sharon Syc , Ph.D., assistant clinical professor at Erikson Institute, has more than 25 years experience in education, research, and child development. A review of Claude Steele s theory of stereotype vulnerability enhances teachers understanding of and support for students test performance. Teachers learn motivating approaches that minimize fear and negative consequences of testing while fostering students serious attention to improved performance.
Instructional presentation approaches that foster improved performance are also reviewed.
Karen DeMoss is a researcher at the Consortium on Chicago School Research and a doctoral student at the University of Chicago. She has taught and conducted professional development workshops for 10 years in Texas, Japan, and West Africa. Terry Morris has taught urban children in first and second grade for 12 years. Excellence in Teaching Award. Issues regarding friendships, family communication, curriculum and environmental modifications, differentiated instruction, and levels of support are discussed.