Applying the Science of Learning to Education: An Insight into the Mechanisms that Shape Learning

This book provides an overview of the various 'Science of Learning' (SoL) research projects led by researchers at the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and international research collaborators. It presents the goals and rationale behind the Science of Learning in Education (SoLE) initiative and examines a spectrum of topics relevant to bolstering our understanding of the science underlying learning. The Science of Learning (SoL) is an advancing field, with proponents extolling its potential impact on educational practice. This book investigates the possible correlations or causal relationships between brain functioning and development, physiology, environment factors, and their impact on learning. It promotes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding biological to behavioural mechanisms of learning that are oriented toward optimizing and maximizing every learner’s potential.

Professor David Hung is currently the research Center Director, Science of Learning in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He is also the President's Chair of Education (Learning Sciences) at the Nanyang Technological University. His strong foundations in learning and the learning sciences serve as critical corroborators in contemporary expansive investigations into neuroscience, physiological, and other biological indicators of learning. Prof Hung juxtaposes the science of educational systems with the science of learning.

Asst/Professor Azilawati Jamaludin is Assistant Dean for Science of Learning in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. She leads research and develops teaching programs in the areas of Science of Learning, Neurotechnology & Innovation, and Translating Educational Neuroscience, with a focus on application of innovative technologies such as neuroscientific games for at-risk learners. She has been integral in the Science of Learning in Education initiative at NIE, an effort to integrate neuroscientific understanding with education research and practice, with the goal of optimizing learning, as the crux of human potential, for every learner.

Dr Aishah Abdul Rahman is an Education Research Scientist at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Her research examines how children and adolescents regulate their thoughts, attention, actions, and emotions ― processes that are referred to as executive functions. Her research utilises both behavioural and neurophysiological methods, and seeks to understand the factors that influence the development of these abilities. Her current research project also investigates potential interventions that can foster these skills in adolescents. In addition to teaching and supervising undergraduate students, she alsoengages with schools and community organisations on raising awareness on ways in which caregivers and educators can nurture these skills in children.