How Learning Works: Research on Learning as a Resource for Teaching Theology and Religion
AAR-P17-109/SBL-P17-201a
Friday – 12:00 PM–5:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-107 (Plaza Level)
What if we designed courses and teaching activities in theology and religion based on how people actually learn? Recent advances in cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, and other areas of educational research provide exciting new clues into the processes by which 
learning takes place. But busy teachers often lack time to engage in extensive study of contemporary learning theory to inform their teaching. In this 5-hour workshop, participants will be introduced to a framework of seven principles of learning that research has shown can enhance learning in significant ways. Participants then will have the opportunity to work in-depth with one or more of these principles in relation to a course they teach. We will explore strategies for teaching; share expertise and provide feedback on learning-based teaching practices; and consider the particular, subject-specific implications such understandings of learning may have for the teaching of theology and religion.
We will begin with a buffet lunch at noon and conclude with a reception for participants ending at 5:30.
Participants will be asked to read, before the workshop, one chapter that will be provided by the Wabash Center.
Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Send an email to Beth Reffett, reffettb@wabash.edu.
Registration deadline is November 1.
Panelists:
Jeremy Posadas, Austin College
Joyce Ann Mercer, Yale University