Dr Paul Howard-Jones
Abstract
Games, learning and the brain's reward system
This seminar will present evidence suggesting that chance-based uncertainty has been overlooked in understanding motivation in the classroom. It will draw on recent neuroscientific insights to explain how this concept can help explain the motivation provided by computer games and the difficulties many children experience, particularly boys, in directing their attention towards their academic studies
Profile
Dr Paul Howard-Jones specialises in interdisciplinary research involving neuroscience and education. His published work spans education, philosophy, psychology and neuroscience. He coordinated the UK's ESRC seminar series on Neuroscience and Education (05-06), authored the subsequent commentary and is currently completing a book on this new field of inquiry for Routledge (to be published 2009). His scientific research is grounded by considerable past experience in the training and professional development of teachers. He is currently employing research techniques ranging from neurocomputational modelling and imaging, to practitioner-based action research, in order to produce and apply educational insights that draw on our understanding of brain function. He is a passionate contributor to the general debate around neuroscience and education in educational, scientific and public arenas, but his more specific research interests include creativity, educational technology and learning games. He co-ordinates the Centre for Psychology and Learning In Context (CPLIC) and the Neuro-Educational Research Network (NEnet) at the Graduate School of Education, University of Bristol, UK.