A demonstration of the growing interest for learning and the brain, an institute of University of Washington which is explicitly dedicated to the development of interdisciplinary research on learning sciences, in order to achieve better results in education:
“The Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences is an interdisciplinary center dedicated to discovering the fundamental principles of human learning that will enable all children to achieve their full potential. Our goal is to become the world’s foremost research generator on early learning and development. We will translate and disseminate cutting-edge research discoveries to global constituents in order to help unify the science of learning and the practice of learning.”
Directors of the institute are Patricia K. Kuhl, UW professor of Speech and Hearing Sciences, and Dr. Andrew N. Meltzoff, UW professor of Psychology.
“Dr. Kuhl’s research focuses on how infant and adult brains process language. In breakthrough studies, she has demonstrated that early exposure to language alters the mechanisms of perception, producing a ‘neural commitment’ to one’s native language. Her findings have advanced our understanding of critical periods in learning.”
“Dr. Meltzoff’s research focuses on cognitive development and social understanding in infants, children, and adults. His pioneering work has demonstrated the importance of role models in human development and their profound effect on learning. His discoveries have revolutionized our thinking about memory development and deepened our understanding about the roots of social cognition. ”
Both are authors of a recent paper appeared on Science. The paper proposes the model for a new science of learning:
Meltzoff AN, Kuhl PK, Movellan J, Sejnowski TJ. Foundations for a new science of learning. Science 2009 July 19; 325(5938):284-288.