Understanding Uncommon Sense Teaching

In this session, Dr. Barbara Oakley discusses her journey from struggling with math to becoming a distinguished engineering professor. She shares insights from her new book, 'Uncommon Sense Teaching,' which explores how brain science can inform teaching practices. The conversation covers the importance of both procedural and declarative learning, the use of metaphors and analogies, and tips for building effective learning habits. Dr. Oakley emphasizes the need for active practice and the integration of neuroscience in education.

What is the main focus of Dr. Barbara Oakley's new book discussed in the introduction?

• Advanced engineering techniques

• Uncommon Sense Teaching

• The history of Khan Academy

• The impact of COVID-19 on education

What was Dr. Oakley's initial career aspiration before becoming an engineering professor?

• A veterinarian

• A mathematician

• A scientist

• A language teacher

How did Dr. Oakley improve her math skills later in life?

• By using Khan Academy

• By attending remedial classes

• By reading engineering books

• By practicing with friends

What did Dr. Oakley find when she explored cognitive psychology and neuroscience?

• No connection to teaching

• Glaring holes and assumptions

• A lack of interest in education

• Complete understanding of the brain

Why did Dr. Oakley and her co-author choose the title 'Uncommon Sense Teaching'?

• Because it was a catchy phrase

• Because it was suggested by a friend

• Because the ideas are widely known

• Because the ideas are not commonly taught

What is a common misconception about learning according to Dr. Oakley?

• Practice is not necessary

• All subjects are equally difficult

• Learning is only for young people

• You can always look up information

How do metaphors and analogies aid in learning?

• By providing entertainment

• By simplifying complex ideas

• By confusing learners

• By replacing factual knowledge

What is the significance of procedural skills in learning?

• They are only useful in language learning

• They help in understanding complex patterns

• They are not related to memory

• They are less important than declarative skills

What is a key strategy for forming new habits according to Dr. Oakley?

• Avoiding difficult tasks

• Practicing sporadically

• Relying on external motivation

• Doing it repeatedly over time

How did Dr. Oakley ensure her daughters had all career doors open?

• By enrolling them in art classes

• By making them practice math daily

• By encouraging them to avoid math

• By letting them choose their own path