Brenda Hughes1, Karen A Sullivan2, Linda Gilmore3. 1. School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Australia. 2. School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Australia; Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australia. 3. School of Early Childhood and Inclusive Education, Queensland University of Technology, Australia. Electronic address: l.gilmore@qut.edu.au.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: It is not well understood whether qualified teachers believe neuromyths, and whether this affects their practice and learner outcomes. METHOD: A standardised survey was administered to practising teachers (N = 228) to determine whether or not they believe fictional (neuromyth) or factual statements about the brain, the confidence in those beliefs, and their application. RESULTS: Although factual knowledge was high, seven neuromyths were believed by >50% of the sample. Participants who endorsed neuromyths were generally more confident in their answers than those who identified the myths. Key neuromyths appear to be incorporated into classrooms. CONCLUSION: Australian teachers, like their overseas counterparts, have some neuroscience awareness but are susceptible to neuromyths. A stronger partnership with neuroscientists would addresss the complex problem of disentangling brain facts from fictions, and provide better support for teachers. This study uncovered psychometric weaknesses in the commonly used neuromyth measure that future research should address.
BACKGROUND: It is not well understood whether qualified teachers believe neuromyths, and whether this affects their practice and learner outcomes. METHOD: A standardised survey was administered to practising teachers (N = 228) to determine whether or not they believe fictional (neuromyth) or factual statements about the brain, the confidence in those beliefs, and their application. RESULTS: Although factual knowledge was high, seven neuromyths were believed by >50% of the sample. Participants who endorsed neuromyths were generally more confident in their answers than those who identified the myths. Key neuromyths appear to be incorporated into classrooms. CONCLUSION: Australian teachers, like their overseas counterparts, have some neuroscience awareness but are susceptible to neuromyths. A stronger partnership with neuroscientists would addresss the complex problem of disentangling brain facts from fictions, and provide better support for teachers. This study uncovered psychometric weaknesses in the commonly used neuromyth measure that future research should address.