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Faulty brain processing of new information underlies psychotic delusions, finds new research

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King's College London discovered that problems in how the brain recognizes and processes novel information lie at the root of psychosis. The study found that defective brain signals in patients with psychosis could be altered with medication, leading to new treatment development pathways.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 23, 2020

How effective are language learning apps?

A study by Michigan State University found that language learning apps, such as Babbel, can improve oral communication skills and not just grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Students who used the app for longer periods showed greater improvement in their Spanish language knowledge.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForeign Language Annals·DateJun 9, 2020

NUS and Stanford researchers uncover a new mindset that predicts success

Researchers from NUS and Stanford found that people with a strategic mindset ask themselves 'How else can I do this?' when faced with challenges, leading to effective strategies and improved performance in educational, professional, health and fitness goals. A strategic mindset can be taught through training and practice.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

No laughing matter

A new study by Katie Welch and Marco Shappeck investigates the prevalence of 'LOL' in students' text messages, highlighting its potential applications in classroom learning. The research demonstrates how linguistic concepts can be effectively incorporated into courses that satisfy basic educational requirements.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateMay 27, 2020

Seductive details inhibit learning

A meta-analysis of 58 studies involving over 7,500 students found that seductive details can lower learning outcome measures. The analysis suggests that students' attention is diverted towards irrelevant information, leading to decreased performance. However, good details can still engage students if they are pertinent to the topic.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEducational Psychology Review·DateMar 19, 2020

Underrepresented college students benefit more from 'active learning' techniques in STEM

Active learning techniques have been shown to significantly narrow the achievement gap between overrepresented and underrepresented students in STEM fields. In a recent study, instructors incorporated more active learning methods into undergraduate STEM courses, resulting in exam scores narrowing by 33-42% and course passing rates impr...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Grant aims to improve environmental education

A Virginia Tech professor is leading a study on STEM-based environmental education programs to determine how to promote positive learning outcomes for students. The research, funded by the National Science Foundation, will observe 500 single-day field trips and analyze their characteristics to identify factors linked to better outcomes.

Specialized training benefits young STEM researchers

A new study at Binghamton University's First-year Research Immersion (FRI) program found that instructors with extra training improved student outcomes. The FRI program provides STEM students with research experience, while the training program for research educators helped them develop skills in teaching and mentoring.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalFEMS Microbiology Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Dangers of the blame game

A study found that when people are informed about a victim's past moral transgressions, they are less likely to take action against the company. This phenomenon can lead to irrational victim blaming, harming individuals, groups, and society. The study aims to increase awareness among consumers and empower them to make rational decisions.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJul 24, 2019

Culture shapes how we learn to reason?

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that cultural environment influences early diversity in abstract thought. Chinese children demonstrated superior relational reasoning skills compared to US children, with significant differences emerging around age 3.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2019

What we think we know -- but might not -- pushes us to learn more

A study from the University of California, Berkeley found that uncertainty about what one knows leads to the most curiosity and learning. Tailoring classroom learning to students' misconceptions can be an effective way to stimulate curiosity and motivation to learn. The study's findings expand on Maria Montessori's child-centered appro...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateMay 23, 2019

Experiences of nature boost children's learning

A critical review of hundreds of studies reveals that time in nature improves attention, reduces stress, boosts self-discipline, and promotes physical activity and fitness. The analysis suggests that greening schoolyards and incorporating nature-based instruction can have a significant impact on children's learning and development.

Hailey Herleman receives Distinguished Early Career Contributions-Practice Award from SIOP

Dr. Hailey Herleman has made significant contributions to the practice of industrial-organizational psychology through her thought leadership, exceptional service to clients, and collaborative approach to applying analytics to workforce issues. She is a recipient of the Distinguished Early Career Contributions-Practice Award from SIOP.