How can insights from neuroscience transform not only how students learn, but how they engage with some of the biggest challenges facing our world today?

In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Professor Paul Howard-Jones, a leading expert at the intersection of brain science, education and climate change education. Based at the University of Bristol, Paul’s work explores how understanding the brain can help us improve teaching, boost motivation and support more emotionally and cognitively engaged learning, including when it comes to complex global issues like climate change.

We talk about what really drives student motivation, why many popular ideas about the brain are actually myths and how to bridge the gap between research and classroom practice. Paul also shares how neuroscience can play a key role in helping young people not just learn about climate change, but feel empowered to act.

🎙️ In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ Why motivation and reward are central to how the brain learns

✅ What common myths still shape teaching, and how to challenge them

✅ How teachers can be supported to turn learning science into classroom practice

✅ How insights from neuroscience can shape more impactful climate change education

✅ What parents can do to foster deeper, more engaged learning at home

Whether you’re curious about how your child learns, or how education can prepare young people for a rapidly changing world, this conversation is full of insight, evidence and practical wisdom.

🔗 Links & Resources

📚 Explore Paul’s work and his podcast Mind, Brain and Planet https://linktr.ee/mindbrainplanet

Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mind-brain-and-planet/id1776174197

Paul’s Research Profile https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/en/persons/paul-a-howard-jones

Mind, Brain and Planet Blog https://mindbrainplanet.com/

Evolution of the Learning Brain Book by Professor Paul Howard-Jones

📩 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with another parent or educator, and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on learning, neuroscience and academic success.

👉 Interested in personalised academic coaching? Book a free 30-minute consultation via my website:

https://www.york-weaving-education.co.uk/

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