2019-2020 Graduate Catalog

EDUA 5667 The Teenage Brain: How it Works

THE TEENAGE BRAIN: HOW IT WORKS
Why do teenagers act like that? Teachers have been asking this question for generations. Impulsivity, rapid mood swings, dangerous experimentation, angry outbursts, and poor decision making are just some of the behaviors that emerge as children enter adolescence. As a middle or high school educator, you have the unique and sometimes unforgiving task of reaching this age group in the classroom. However, the actual physiological makeup of the teenage brain is responsible for more of adolescent behavior than we may have realized.

In this course, you will learn about the science of the teenage brain; how it affects teenagers’ emotions, thought processes, and behavior; and how to work with these challenges rather than fight against them. You will explore the impact of digital connectivity on adolescent brains and its long-term ramifications on adolescent lives. You’ll also develop concrete strategies for talking with teens about at-risk behaviors, managing the mental and behavioral challenges unique to teenagers, and harnessing their strengths to keep them motivated and engaged in learning.

With the knowledge and techniques from this course, you’ll be equipped to help your adolescent students navigate life and education in a way that sets them up for lifelong success.



Credits

3