Course Description and Competencies

What to Expect

In this course, you will work through four sections, which are broken into lessons. Throughout the material, you will find readings, videos, and other interactive elements. You will also find knowledge checks that help you test your understanding. Engaging with these activities reinforces new learning. It also complements the knowledge you bring to this area of study.

Course Competencies

This course covers the following competencies:

  • The learner examines how principles of neuroscience are applied in instructional practices. 
  • The learner examines how theories of learning science and learner growth and development influence educational practices.
  • The learner recommends instructional techniques based on principles of learning science that will positively impact learning.
  • The learner evaluates the impact of learning science theories on a classroom scenario. 

Assessment

You have three assessments for this course: a project consisting of two tasks and one final exam. The assessments provide an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the competencies in this course. You must achieve a ranking of Competent on each assessment to pass the course. You may attempt each assessment two times before additional support is necessary. If you require further attempts, please contact your Student Experience Team.

2 Final Projects
1 Final Exam
2 Competency Units

Course Outline

ModuleUpon completion of this module, you will be able to:
The Neuroscience of Learning
  • Examine new information and resources on developmental topics.  
  • Analyze evidence-based research and data for guidance in the selection of practices and interventions. 
  • Examine how principles of neuroscience are applied in instructional practices.
Theories of Growth and Development
  •  Apply learning theory and the philosophies of education to determine student learning levels. 
  • Apply education theories for educational practice. 
  • Identify expected growth and changes at all physical, cognitive, and psychological stages of development. 
  • Examine how theories of learning science and learner growth and development influence educational practices.
Recommending Instructional Techniques
  • Research evidence-based practices for informed recommendations. 
  • Select effective approaches to teaching when planning lessons. 
  • Describe how educational theory impacts student learning. 
  • Recommend instructional techniques based on principles of learning science that will positively impact learning.
Evaluates Impact of Learning Theories
  • Analyze evidence-based research data for guidance in the selection of practices and interventions. 
  • Apply self-reflection techniques to professional practice. 
  • Justify an educational or instructional decision.

Technology Requirements

We want you to have the tools to succeed! Since this course includes at least one proctored test, please be sure to have a working microphone, speakers, and an external webcam. Unfortunately, an internal webcam (built into many laptops) is not acceptable. (Note: The external webcam is required only for exams that have proctors. You do not need one for practice tests and other non-proctored assessments.) If you haven't already, be sure to download the Meazure Learning Guardian browser, which you will need for the proctoring system.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. If you haven't already, download this free software. You may encounter an interactive form that contains fields that you can select or fill in. Review how to fill in a PDF form.

You are allowed to use a hand-held calculator on every assessment. Be sure to follow these calculator requirements.

For other details about the technology you'll need, review the Computer System and Technology Requirements. If you have questions about your setup, contact support@academy.wgu.edu.

Key Contacts

Certificate Connect
Check out this online community to take advantage of course resources, including videos and tips from your educators. You can ask and answer questions, provide feedback on your progress, and interact with fellow students. You will find this platform in the Student Resources section of the course. Log on and do some exploring!

Technical Support
If you encounter technical issues, be sure to contact the Help Desk. Just submit a Support Request for assistance.

Program Support
Do you have questions about your account? Student Support has answers. They can help with billing, switching courses, and other requests. You can contact them at (888) 320-0540 or support@academy.wgu.edu.

Accommodations

WGU provides compliant and accessible learning experiences. If you require accommodation, please contact us at the start of the course. You can email disability@academy.wgu.edu.

We are committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities have equal access to WGU's services and materials. We strive to use best practices for accessibility. Our goal is to conform to existing U.S. laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Our learning management system (LMS) platform is Open edX. Open edX’s commitment to accessible content is published in their Website Accessibility Policy.