We know more about the inner workings of the human brain than ever before, but is our educational system taking advantage of what we've learned? Cognitive behavioral researcher Dr. CK Bray joins us on the podcast today to explore the intricate relationship between neuroscience, education, and culture. Dr. Bray shares insightful perspectives on the pressing need for change in our educational practices, emphasizing the importance of mental health monitoring, emotional regulation tools, the profound impact of physical activity and the vital role played by social connection in optimizing our brains for learning.

Ever heard of box breathing? In this episode, Dr. Bray explains how this simple technique and others can reset the brain, reduce stress, and combat fatigue, creating a more conducive environment for both learning and teaching. But, it doesn't stop there! We also discuss the positive impacts of educator autonomy on their motivation and student outcomes. A little autonomy can go a long way to foster a sense of control, purpose, and increase collective teacher efficacy. 

Finally, Dr. Bray lays out the importance of developing strong social connections. In the digital age, our interactions are often mediated by screens, resulting in a potential lack of genuine connection. Dr. Bray guides us through the influences of social media on our youth and underscores the significance of continuous learning and taking on challenges in enhancing self-efficacy and self-esteem. So, gear up as we dive into these pivotal discussions aimed at equipping educators to be more successful in their indispensable roles. Let's redefine education together!

"Outliers in Education" is a project of CEE, The Center for Educational Effectiveness. Find out more at effectiveness.org.

Produced by Jamie Howell at Howell at the Moon Productions.