Book Reviews – Page 2 – Education & Teacher Conferences

Erik Jahner, PhD

December 18, 2024

Honesty by Christian Miller

At first glance, honesty might seem like a straightforward, even mundane topic. When I picked up Honesty: the Philosophy and Psychology of a Neglected Virtue, I wasn’t expecting much—the title suggested a dry, philosophical dive into a concept we all assume we understand. Isn’t honesty just common sense? But from the opening chapter, the author, Christian Miller, intrigued me and continually pulled me deeper. The complications and questions offered important challenge at the individual and societal level. The author masterfully introduces honesty not merely as telling the truth but as a profound and complex character trait—an enduring virtue that influences how we think, feel, and act. What starts as a critique of common assumptions grows into a refined and compelling argument, presenting honesty as an “honest disposition”—a trait defined by consistency across different contexts. Eventually settling in as honesty perhaps as a mixed trait. This nuanced perspective elevates the discussion, moving beyond surface-level ideas to explore the motivations, reasoning, and inner consistency required to truly embody honesty as a virtue.

The first half of the book dives into the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of honesty. One section raises compelling questions about whether acting against what one perceives as morally right could also be considered dishonest. Another challenges traditional models of practical wisdom, questioning its necessity as a distinct trait for other virtues. These discussions are enriched with insights into the motivations behind honest actions—such as friendship, caring, justice, and duty—demonstrating how honesty transcends mere self-interest.

Through this exploration of honesty, the book offers a detailed examination of vices of dishonesty. It highlights how dishonesty manifests in everyday life through behaviors like lying, cheating, stealing, promise-breaking, and self-deception. Each vice has a corresponding virtue, such as truthfulness and respectfulness, which collectively frame honesty as a higher-level virtue. A unifying theme emerges: honesty involves resisting the intentional distortion of facts as we perceive them. This definition evolves throughout the book, as the author refines their argument by presenting premises and challenging them with thought-provoking examples.

The second half of the book takes a more empirical turn, exploring psychological studies on lying, cheating, and related behaviors. While the author notes a surprising lack of research on some facets of honesty, such as promise-breaking and stealing, studies on lying and cheating offer valuable insights. These range from participants reflecting on their everyday dishonest behaviors to controlled experiments involving vignettes or games where cheating and misleading are possible. While these studies don’t provide a complete picture, they shed light on how honesty and dishonesty play out in different situations and how individual dispositions influence these behaviors.

One of the book’s most striking conclusions is that most people do not fully embody either virtue or vice but instead exhibit “mixed character” traits, existing somewhere between honesty and dishonesty. These mixed traits reflect a blend of beliefs and desires that lead to inconsistent yet predictable behavior across situations. For example, a person might believe cheating is wrong but still feel tempted to cheat to avoid failure. Such traits are neither wholly virtuous nor wholly vicious but lie on a spectrum, varying in degree and evolving over time. This perspective moves beyond traditional virtue/vice labels, offering a more realistic understanding of human character.

The book also addresses how external situations can either enhance or suppress the application of honesty as a character trait. It acknowledges the significant gap between our current character and the ideal, emphasizing the importance of aligning thoughts, feelings, motivations, and actions to avoid distorting reality. The author suggests practical ways to cultivate honesty, such as reducing the temptation to cheat, minimizing our inclination to present a dishonest image to others, and fostering self-reflection and honest self-assessment.

Additionally, the book grapples with the complexities of moral decision-making, recognizing that virtues do not always align seamlessly. Honesty can sometimes conflict with other moral priorities, and this tension—along with the acknowledgment of human imperfections—makes the book relatable and profoundly thought-provoking.

In today’s world, where the rapid spread of misinformation tests our commitment to honesty, this book’s insights feel especially timely. It challenges readers to think deeply about how they consume and deliver information, urging us to reflect on the broader implications of honesty in our lives.

Honesty offers a rich, multi-dimensional exploration of this often-overlooked virtue. By blending philosophy, psychology, and empirical research, it provides a compelling framework for understanding and cultivating honesty. Whether you’re interested in moral philosophy, psychology, or personal growth, this book is a thought-provoking and rewarding read that will leave you reflecting long after the final page.

Erik Jahner, PhD

November 21, 2024

Awe by Dacher Keltner

We often center our lives around familiar emotions like joy, sadness, anger, anxiety, or disgust, using them to shape our narratives and interpret experiences. Yet, there’s a whole spectrum of more complex and often overlooked emotions that deeply enrich our lives. Take for instance—that profound mix of humility, wonder, and connection you might feel while gazing at a breathtaking sunset or witnessing an act of pure altruism. In those moments, you’re reminded of how small you are in the grand scheme of things, yet deeply connected to something much larger.

In his thought-provoking book, Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life, Dacher Keltner explores the transformative power of awe and how it can elevate our lives. He invites us to transcend beyond routine and mundane limited attention, helping us find meaning and richness in everyday moments. Through awe, we can reconnect with the beauty of our own story and discover a more expansive, fulfilling way of living.

Keltner, a psychology professor and expert on emotions, defines awe as the experience of encountering something vast and beyond our understanding. Through a blend of personal stories, scientific research, and cultural insights, he reveals how moments of awe—big or small—can reduce stress, spark creativity, deepen our connections, and foster a greater sense of purpose. Research shows that awe lowers cortisol levels, boosting emotional well-being and promoting a sense of calm. It even has physical benefits, like reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and enhancing overall resilience.

At the core of the book, Keltner delves into eight primary sources of awe—universal experiences that resonate deeply with us all:

Moral beauty: Witnessing acts of courage, kindness, or strength that inspire us to be better.
Nature: The breathtaking vastness of mountains, oceans, or a starry sky that makes us feel small yet deeply connected.
Collective effervescence: The electrifying energy of a concert, a sports game, or a shared moment in a crowd.
Music: Those goosebump-inducing melodies that stir our emotions and remind us of life’s depth.
Art and architecture: The beauty of great paintings, sculptures, or awe-inspiring buildings that showcase human creativity.
Spirituality and religion: Moments of transcendence found in mindfulness, prayer, or meditation.
Life and death: The raw emotional power of witnessing birth or contemplating the end of life.
Epiphanies: The sudden clarity of a life-changing idea or realization.

While these categories capture the essence of awe, the emotion itself is profoundly personal and can emerge from countless unexpected moments

Keltner’s writing feels like a heartfelt conversation with a wise friend. He doesn’t just present data; he shares personal reflections, including how awe helped him through moments of grief and loss, making his insights feel real and relatable. Yes, awe can be found in death and grief and we are taken on a journey with the author as he experiences this himself. It was in fact the death of his brother that brought him to appreciate this colorful emotion.

Importantly, Keltner doesn’t shy away from awe’s complexities, exploring how it has been used throughout history to manipulate or dominate. This balanced perspective adds depth to his exploration, reminding us of the need to approach awe responsibly.

One of the most inspiring takeaways is that awe is accessible to everyone. You don’t need wealth or extraordinary experiences to feel it. Awe lives in the everyday: the beauty of the clouds, a powerful piece of music, or a stranger’s small act of kindness. These moments remind us of life’s vastness, offering perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. Teachers, parents, and anyone looking to enrich their lives will find practical ideas, from encouraging kids to explore nature to fostering a sense of wonder in everyday moments.

Ultimately, Awe is a powerful invitation to slow down, pay attention, and savor the beauty and mystery all around us. Whether you’re a teacher hoping to inspire students, a parent looking to create meaningful family moments, or simply someone wanting to feel more connected to the world, this book offers a practical and uplifting guide to living a richer, more awe-filled life.

So why not pause today—step outside, lose yourself in a favorite song or appreciate the beauty of everyday human interactions? As Keltner beautifully illustrates, those moments of wonder aren’t just fleeting joys; they’re transformative experiences that can shape how we see ourselves, each other, and the world.

Hidden Brilliance by Lynn Kern Koegel & Claire LaZebnik

Erik Jahner, PhD

October 21, 2024

Hidden Brilliance by Lynn Kern Koegel & Claire LaZebnik

As parents and educators, we often find ourselves trying to mold children into the expectations of what is “normal.” We fight the wind and we often break a few of our branches in the process. But what if the behaviors we struggle to understand aren’t problems to be fixed, but rather the key to unlocking their unique brilliance? In Hidden Brilliance: Unlocking the Intelligence of Autism, Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel and Claire LaZebnik challenge us to shift our deficit perspective and recognize the untapped potential in children with autism. The authors are not presenting some miracle or hidden jewel, instead, the authors suggest that their strengths are under our noses but we just don’t notice them because we are focused on their lack of fit to our traditional expectations. Dr. Koegel, an expert in autism research, and LaZebnik, a skilled storyteller, combine their expertise to present a deeply insightful book. They emphasize that too often, outdated mindsets, inadequate training, and rigid reliance on standardized testing prevent us from truly seeing the capabilities of children with autism. The authors argue that instead of trying to make neurodivergent children fit into neurotypical molds, we should celebrate and develop their unique strengths, whether it’s extraordinary memory, mathematical skills, artistic talents, or attention to detail. Not every child is going to be judged as extraordinary, but when we emphasize a misfit with tradition we dismiss the innovative perspective and divergent way of thinking that could lead to their success.

The book’s strength is its down-to-earth approach. It’s filled with concise touching, real-life stories of kids who initially struggled with behaviors that seemed disruptive or defiant. Through these narratives, Koegel and LaZebnik show how a shift in perspective can turn frustrating situations into moments of connection and even humor. Perhaps even a game of tic-tac-toe could lead to defiance and exhausting battles about rules or lead to self-discovery and laughter? For parents and teachers, these stories are relatable and inspiring, helping us see how we, too, can foster a more supportive environment for the children in our lives. The authors go beyond theory, offering practical strategies for working with children on the autism spectrum. From improving communication to addressing behaviors often labeled as “disruptive,” the book gives clear, actionable steps. Whether you’re trying to advocate for your child in the school system, find less frustrating ways for them to express themselves, or build a home environment that encourages joy and learning, there are valuable insights here.

By leveraging these strengths, children can experience more success in academics, social interactions, and personal development. The book highlights how this approach can significantly improve a child’s confidence and sense of self-worth. These approaches increase motivation, naturally emerging engagement, and drive. It also provides guidance on creating individualized learning goals that align with a child’s natural talents, helping them not only adapt to the world but thrive in it. Help them make their own path not conform to paths set by others.

One of the most refreshing aspects of Hidden Brilliance is its optimism. It recognizes the challenges that parents and teachers face, but it also advocates for a hopeful and proactive outlook. Rather than focusing on the unknowns of the future, the book encourages us to celebrate the many small victories and stay open to the possibilities of growth and connection. The book resonates deeply with those who have ever felt their child’s potential was overlooked or misunderstood by traditional systems. It empowers parents to trust their instincts and see beyond labels while offering teachers strategies to support each child’s journey toward fulfilling their unique potential.

Overall, Hidden Brilliance is a must-read for parents, teachers, and anyone working with children on the autism spectrum. But … it is also a great guide for parents of all children: there is no “normal” child that conforms to society. Help them find their way, give them feedback that helps them grow not stifles them. This guide looks beyond surface behaviors helping you discover the incredible talents that children with autism possess. With its mix of heartwarming stories and practical advice, it offers a fresh, hopeful approach to understanding autism. Above all, this book reminds us that by embracing a child’s individual brilliance, we can help them shine in a world that too often overlooks their light.

Experts, Expertise, and Teachers (and Students!)

Andrew Watson

September 22, 2024

Experts, Expertise, and Teachers (and Students!)

Researchers often focus on experts and expertise. And bloggers like me often follow their leads.

You’ll read about the novice-expert continuum, the differences between novices and experts, and the expertise-reversal effect.

But let’s pause for a minute and ask: what is an expert? What is this “expertise” that novices gradually acquire on their way to becoming an expert?

A recent book by Roger Kneebone — Expert: Understanding the Path to Mastery — takes on these fascinating questions.

Biography, and Beyond

Kneebone himself followed an unusual trajectory to this set of questions. He started his professional life training to be a surgeon; his stories of emergency surgery in South Africa will set the squeamish on edge.

By the way, while not slicing his way through gory neck wounds, Kneebone also spent time learning how to fly at a local airport. Here again, his mishaps as a pilot provide important examples for his investigation of expertise.

After some number of years as a surgeon, he decided to retool himself as a general practitioner in rural England — the kind of doctor we would now call a “primary care provider.”

That is: instead of snipping gall bladders out of patients he barely knows, he discusses hang-nails with patients he’s know for years.

Oh, by the way, he also takes up playing the harpsichord — he even builds one of his own. You guessed it: this pursuit also informs his book.

He finally ends up with yet another career: he helped found a program for training surgeons. He is — rather curiously — an expert in expertise.

Sample Size

To explore the nature of expertise, Kneebone reaches outside his own experience to talk to a remarkable variety of experts. As in:

An expert taxidermist

An expert tailor

An expert harpsichord maker

An expert magician

An expert fighter pilot

An expert ceramicist

And so forth.

In these conversations, Kneebone finds remarkably consistent patterns. That is: the path to becoming an expert surgeon is surprisingly like the path to being an expert tailor or an expert magician — even though the actual work of these professions differs substantially.

In his book, he maps out this path, using examples and stories from all those professions.

I won’t trace the entire path from “apprentice” to “journeyman*” to “master*” — you should read Kneebone’s book if you want the details, but I do want to share a few of his insights.

First, Kneebone sees the phase transition from apprentice to journeyman as a change in focus. An apprentice teacher (for example) focuses on what s/he is doing: what does my lesson plan look like? Am I covering learning objectives?

A journeyman teacher focuses on the effect of those actions on students. Are they learning? Did they understand that example? How do their mistakes this week compare to their mistakes last week?

As a developing teacher, I can’t do the second part (focusing on students) until I’ve made the first part (focusing on myself) routine. But that switch really makes all that initial work worthwhile.

Second: the phase change from journeyman to mastery — if I’m understanding Kneebone correctly — involves another such change in focus. Journeyman teachers focus on their students. Master teachers focus on helping other teachers help their students. They switch to a meta-level, and think about the profession itself: how to pass on — and improve! — professional skills, norms, and knowledge.

Once again, this journeyman-to-mastery switch can’t happen until after MANY years of journeyman-level effort. And, in fact, lots of people never make this second leap: they stay focused on the proximate, not the ultimate, effects of their work.

If you’ve been teaching for a while, perhaps you can see these steps in your work, and your colleagues’. Certainly I can see that progression in the schools where I have worked.

Teaching Implications

As teachers, we’re understandably tempted to ask: “How should I think about helping my students along this path? How can I help my students arrive at expertise?”

Kneebone doesn’t address this question directly, but I suspect I know part of the answer.

In Kneebone’s model, the path from apprentice to journeyman to mastery takes…literally…years. Probably decades.

Kneebone doesn’t object to repetitive drudgery; in fact, he considers it an essential step in the process of developing mastery.

For instance: the master tailor he interviews spent literally months sewing a specialized part of a pocket…over and over (and over) again. While he was doing so, he often felt irritated and confused — all too aware of the seeming pointlessness of the exercise. Only once he’d travelled further along the path did he recognize all the subtleties he had absorbed along the way.

So, I suspect Kneebone would tell me: “Andrew, get real. Your high-school sophomores will not become experts at writing — or Shakespeare, or grammar — in a year. Becoming an expert in Shakespeare — in anything — takes DECADES.”

Instead, I found Kneebone’s book to be most helpful as we think about teacher training: how we can reasonably expect apprentices in our profession explore and sift their experiences on their way to later stages of expertise.

A Final Distinction

While I think Kneebone’s book gives better guidance for training teachers (over several years) than teaching students (over several months), I do think the terms “novice” and “expert” are useful in understanding our day-to-day classroom work.

Specifically, we should be aware that our students (almost always) know much less than we do about the topic we’re teaching; they are, relatively speaking, “novices.” We should not act as if they’re experts; doing so will almost certainly overwhelm their working memory.

And, we should not abandon “expertise” as a goal — as long as we focus on “relative expertise.”

That is: my sophomores won’t be Shakespeare experts at the end of the year. But — if I’m doing my job right — they will have more expertise than they did before.

They’re better at parsing Shakespearean syntax.

They know more about King James I’s obsession with witches, and with deception. (Hello, Gunpowder Plot.)

They’re on the lookout for the words “do,” “done,” and “deed” as they make their way through the poetry.

They’re not experts, but they’re relative experts: that is, experts relative to themselves at the beginning of the year.

As long as we keep the goal of “relative” expertise in mind, then the novice/expert distinction provides lots of useful guidance for our work with students.

As long as we recognize that Kneebone’s insights apply more to teaching training than to student instruction, I think his book provides importand and helpful insights into the nuances, trials, and joys of our work.

* These terms, of course, raise questions. Kneebone considers them, and sticks with this terminology.

Kneebone, R. (2020). Expert: Understanding the path to mastery. Penguin UK.

Erik Jahner, PhD

September 17, 2024

Rewired by Carl Marci

In Rewired: Protecting Your Brain in the Digital Age, Dr. Carl D. Marci takes readers on a fascinating journey into how our brains are adapting (or struggling to adapt) in the digital age. According to Marci, our brain wiring is not predetermined but develops extensively outside the womb as we encounter new challenges. He seeks to explain the emerging landscape for brain development by exploring the history of media and advertising, setting the stage for the smartphone revolution. What is our brain becoming? Despite our unprecedented connectivity, many of us feel more isolated than ever. Marci argues that our constant engagement with smartphones and social media is reshaping our brain functions, overstimulating our reward centers, and hindering our ability to form deep, meaningful relationships crucial for our mental and physical health.

Marci delves deep into the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain’s incredible ability to reorganize itself based on our experiences, thoughts, and behaviors. This adaptability can lead to both positive and negative changes in our neural pathways. While technology has the potential to contribute to distraction and emotional distress, Marci believes it also offers opportunities for proactive brain reshaping. By engaging actively in our brain’s development, we can influence its structure and function to support personal growth and well-being. But we need to take control rather than allow the digital landscape to determine our path.

The book is divided into three main parts. Part 1, “Wired: Connected Brains,” explores how the evolution of media and advertising has prepared the ground for the smartphone era. It highlights the prefrontal cortex’s crucial role in managing our interactions and behaviors. Part 2, “Rewired: Assaulted Brains,” addresses the negative impacts of smartphone use, such as diminished attention spans, increased multitasking, and the risk of developing unhealthy habits and addictions. Marci emphasizes the importance of understanding these effects at various life stages. Finally, Part 3, “Beyond Wired: Better Brains,” offers practical strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of digital technology. Marci provides actionable recommendations for enhancing brain health through digital literacy and mindful tech use, advocating for a balanced approach that maximizes technology’s benefits while minimizing its potential harms.

Rewired covers a wide range of relatable topics, from porn addiction and FOMO to the influence of advertising on obesity and self-image. It tackles how passive technology use affects cognition, attention, and mental health, supported by well-researched studies that separate fact from fiction. Marci’s focus is not just on the negative aspects but also on the brain’s remarkable power to rewire itself. By harnessing the powers of neuroplasticity and cognitive control, we can mitigate the downsides and amplify the benefits of our digital environment.

Marci outlines key principles affecting neuroplasticity, such as how mindfulness, self-reflection, and healthy habits positively impact brain function. For instance, mindfulness and meditation can increase gray matter density in areas associated with memory, learning, and emotional regulation. Positive habits like regular exercise and a nutritious diet also support brain health, improve cognitive function, and reduce inflammation linked to mood disorders.

The book also explores experience-dependent plasticity, which is the idea that our brains change in response to specific activities. Learning new skills—like playing an instrument or acquiring a new language—creates and strengthens neural pathways. Marci provides compelling examples of how people with learning disabilities or cognitive challenges can improve their cognitive functions through targeted exercises and therapies.

Moreover, Rewired addresses the role of emotions in neuroplasticity. Positive emotions such as joy and gratitude can enhance brain health, while negative emotions like stress and anxiety can impede it. By fostering a positive emotional state through practices like mindfulness and meditation, we can promote beneficial brain rewiring and improve our overall well-being.

Marci also highlights the importance of social connections in supporting neuroplasticity. Positive relationships and meaningful social interactions are vital for brain development and adaptability. Strong social bonds not only contribute to emotional resilience but also enhance the brain’s ability to adapt and grow.

Overall, Rewired is both a critical examination of our digital habits and a practical guide to achieving a balanced life. Dr. Marci provides valuable strategies for managing technology use and restoring genuine connections. While acknowledging the significant changes brought about by smartphones and media consumption, he shows that with conscious effort and healthy practices, we have the power to shape our brain’s future. The book offers a hopeful perspective on navigating the digital age, providing actionable advice to help us thrive in both our virtual and real-world interactions.

Erik Jahner, PhD

August 22, 2024

The End of Trauma by George Bonanno

When faced with extreme adversity—like violent incidents or life-threatening situations—we often assume that trauma is inevitable and that PTSD will follow. We then may discuss trauma as a chronic and permanent condition: “I am a traumatized individual.” But how likely is it that we’ll actually develop PTSD? And what makes some people able to withstand such events more effectively than others? How often do we have the capacity to build resilience?

In The End of Trauma, internationally recognized psychologist George A. Bonanno challenges the conventional wisdom on trauma, offering a necessary change in how we discuss trauma, understand, and treat it. Especially in the aftermath of events like 9/11 and now the global pandemic, Bonanno argues that trauma isn’t as prevalent as we often believe, and that most people are surprisingly resilient when faced with life’s toughest challenges. This fresh perspective shifts the focus from inevitable trauma to the remarkable capacity for recovery that most of us possess.

What we too often label as PTSD might be a missed opportunity to respect the natural process of adapting to difficult situations. Bonanno, a leading expert in the field, draws on decades of groundbreaking research, balancing personal stories of resilience with cutting-edge findings from psychology and neuroscience. Through this lens, he explains what helps us bounce back, why some people struggle more than others, and how we can all better manage stress when life gets difficult.

Personally, as a university instructor and researcher in Educational Psychology and Neuroscience, I found this to be one I wish I could add to my students’ ever-expanding reading list. Many students enter psychology with the idea that they will label a struggle as a feature or trait of the individual that needs to be respected as if it is a permanent feature of who they are. And when I work with teachers, they often see trauma as a useful label to dismiss student capacity for learning. Both groups are well-meaning, trying to be compassionate but they miss the compassionate and hopeful point that Bonanno is making here. They are reflecting societies potential misunderstandings. Some degree of struggle is natural, and resilience is learned. Yes, there are still extreme situations, but what is often called PTSD or Trauma is often a stage in adapting. This perspective puts teachers and therapists in the supportive role of helping and scaffolding the learner during this developmentally important process. And it puts you in the driver’s seat of your own struggles.

One of the book’s most innovative contributions is the introduction of the flexibility sequence—a model that outlines the mental steps we take to navigate challenges. Flexibility, as Bonanno reveals, isn’t a fixed trait but a natural function of the human mind, one that needs exercise and practice like all skills. By understanding and harnessing this flexibility, we can better understand the roots of trauma and build greater resilience for the future.

Bonanno’s narrative is not just scientifically rigorous; it’s also deeply engaging, gripping your imagination with artful narrative while honoring the impeccable science of resilience. This makes The End of Trauma not only a valuable read for professionals in the field but also for anyone interested in understanding how they and those they support can overcome extraordinary challenges. It prepares you to build resilience with the potential opportunities that struggle presents. Ultimately, the book provides an optimistic, compassionate, and agentic framework for reexamining our approach to trauma, urging us to appreciate our own mind’s capacity for resilience and to use it to navigate life’s toughest moments. Understand, appreciate, build strategies, and prepare to grow.

Erik Jahner, PhD

July 18, 2024

Visual Thinking by Temple Grandin

Many of us think with words, solving problems and imagining scenarios by coding information verbally. Our culture is designed to select and promote people who do this well, but this is not the only way of processing the world. To think so neglects the significant neurodiversity that makes humans (and the animal kingdom) amazing. Temple Grandin’s Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions invites readers into this neglected side of reality, drawing on her personal experiences and extensive research to explore the unique cognitive styles that shape our understanding and interaction with the world through visual thinking. As a prominent advocate for autism awareness and a leading figure in animal science, Grandin offers a compelling examination of visual thinking’s profound impact.

The journey begins with Grandin’s realization that not everyone shares her ability to think in pictures. She distinguishes between visual and verbal thinkers and introduces two types of visual thinkers: object visualizers and spatial visualizers. Object visualizers, like Grandin, think in detailed images, while spatial visualizers think in patterns and abstractions. The visual learner may struggle to understand what thinking verbally is and struggle to understand why they are seeing the world differently from society’s expectations. She helps you identify ways you might think with some surveys and questions that encourage you to pause and reflect. Surveys that were gleaned from her own research as an intensely curious and scientifically minded individual.

She shows that although the system has selected verbal learning as the gateway to academic success, visual thinking can be a significant asset in fields such as art, design, engineering, and architecture among others. However, she also addresses the challenges visual thinkers face in a society that often prioritizes verbal thinking, especially within the education system. The decline of hands-on learning and the emphasis on standardized testing have marginalized many visual thinkers, hindering their potential and depriving society of their innovative contributions.

Blending personal anecdotes, historical examples, and scientific research, Grandin highlights the importance of nurturing visual thinkers. She introduces a number of historical figures whose stores impacted her development, how she saw herself, and the heights she could reach. She emphasizes the value of diverse cognitive styles and neurodiversity in fostering creativity and problem-solving. Furthermore, Grandin explores the broader implications of neglecting visual thinkers, such as the impact on national innovation and the potential for preventing disasters through their keen attention to detail. She also showcases visual thinkers who have bucked the trend and benefited society, despite not always being valued as they grew up.

Grandin’s writing is both engaging and informative, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Her ability to combine personal experiences with scientific insights creates a compelling narrative that underscores the importance of understanding and valuing different cognitive styles.

Grandin not only identifies problems but also offers solutions, advocating for educational reforms and societal changes that could better accommodate and utilize the strengths of visual thinkers. Her call for a more inclusive approach to education and the workforce is both timely and necessary, urging readers to rethink current systems.

Of course, Grandin weaves in her personal passion for animals. The question of animal consciousness has been debated for a long time, with some scientists and philosophers historically viewing animals as simply reacting on instinct, without the emotional depth of humans. This idea often comes from a bias toward verbal thinking, where language is seen as the key to consciousness. Because animals can’t communicate like humans, they’ve been unfairly dismissed as not having feelings or emotions, leading to their mistreatment and use in harmful experiments.

In the past, studying animal behavior through tests and observations in captivity reinforced this limited view. However, recent studies observing animals in their natural environments have shown they are incredible visual thinkers. They can navigate, communicate, solve problems, and even mourn, proving they have rich emotional lives. This new approach helps us see animals not just as instinct-driven beings but as creatures with deep emotional and cognitive capabilities.

Visual Thinking is a thought-provoking and essential read for educators, parents, and anyone interested in cognitive diversity. Temple Grandin’s unique perspective and deep understanding of visual thinking provide a valuable lens through which to view the world. By championing the strengths of visual thinkers, Grandin makes a compelling case for a more inclusive and innovative society, encouraging us to embrace and cultivate diverse ways of thinking for the betterment of all.

Making Room for Impact by Arran Hamilton, John Hattie, and Dylan Wiliam

Erik Jahner, PhD

June 24, 2024

Making Room for Impact by Arran Hamilton, John Hattie, and Dylan Wiliam

Time to make time to teach effectively and efficiently by digging into your practice with this insanely useful guide written by Arran Hamilton, John Hattie, and Dylan Wiliam. Making Room for Impact: A De-implementation Guide for Educators is not only for instructors; it’s for anyone associated with any level of education from teachers to researchers and administrators who want to make sure “what works” is not just added to the teacher workload but practices are sifted and dialed-in improving student, parent, and instructor lives and educational experiences.

This book is a powerful resource that promises to reshape your thinking and processes in terms of time, money, and effort. The authors highlight a common issue: while we continuously add new practices in hopes of becoming more effective, we seldom revisit, streamline, or remove outdated ones. The result is a longer workweek filled with stress, frustration, and a sense that even if you are getting things done, you’re not doing them well. But here is a systematic instruction manual to increase efficiency in education practice backed by evidence and scaffolded with useful tables, summaries, surveys, and diagrams from experts who have compiled and evaluated reduction philosophies and their implementations across the world.

The book provides a clear rationale for de-implementation, outlining the problems in current systems and the unrealized potential of reducing waste. The initial chapters set the stage with research and international comparisons, giving you and your institution a strong foundation to begin the practice. Its powerful simplicity and clear message guide readers through evaluating and individualizing processes for their unique contexts, akin to a “getting things done” approach for education. The main ideas are encapsulated in the four Rs of de-implementation:

Remove: Eliminate useless or less useful practices.
Reduce: Decrease the overuse of certain practices.
Re-engineer: Simplify non-essential practices by reducing complexities, steps, or time.
Replace: Swap out practices with more efficient and effective ones.

But how do you do this? The means are made clear through a four-step process to streamline your practices while still considering your unique context and current practices.

First, you’ll Discover your current practices, evaluating their effectiveness and understanding what is needed. Then armed with this information, you Decide which of the four Rs to apply. The book guides you through sorting and sifting your existing practices, evaluating their original goals, and determining if they still meet those goals. Detailed guidelines and over 80 potential methods are provided to assist you in this process, allowing you to choose approaches that best fit your context. Next, you’ll envision what the final product will look like and identify pathways to achieve it. The third step is to De-implement, where you bring your plans to life, monitor progress, and prepare for potential setbacks by deploying countermeasures. Finally, you Re-decide, evaluating the success of your de-implementation efforts and making necessary adjustments, emphasizing ongoing evaluation and adjustments to ensure sustainability and expansion.

Numerous case studies throughout the book illustrate these practices in action, making the concepts easier to understand and apply. The figures and tables are instructive and easy to read helping you visualize the process, building a deep understanding of both the philosophy and the practice. A number of these charts and chapters will be reread by you over the years as you internalize the philosophy and hone your practice. The appendices should not be neglected, they are invaluable, offering a “Shopping List” of over 80 de-implementation opportunities, an overview of 50+ cross-disciplinary research studies supporting de-implementation practices, insights into lean and six-sigma approaches, and 50+ tried and true methodologies for implementation from various fields.

The authors also recognize the real school situation—the institutionalization of inefficient and ineffective processes and the political implications of challenging existing views. They respect the psychological challenge of changing personal habits and guide you through both the personal and professional process of de-implementation.

By implementing these practices, you can save time, reduce workload, and improve your work-life balance. Even if learning outcomes remain stable (although they will likely improve), you’ll have more space to evaluate and update practices over time. Ultimately, these strategies are designed to make your day more effective, reduce stress, increase productivity and focus, and allow for necessary adjustments, with the overarching message that less can indeed be more. Not only are these authors giving you back valuable teaching time, but giving you back hours of lost personal time for yourself and your family.

Erik Jahner, PhD

May 17, 2024

Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

From the author of The Coddling of the American Mind, The Righteous Mind, and The Happiness Hypothesis, comes another compelling social commentary that helps us better understand and take part in our social evolution. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist at the Stern School of Business (NYU), once again asks what kind of society we want to create and empowers us with the knowledge to become agents of change.

In Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness, Haidt identifies a critical period between 2010 and 2015 when our phones and computers became more than tools for communication and work, but they became “platforms upon which companies competed to see who could hold on to eyeballs the longest.” (p. 115) Not coincidentally, it was during this same industrial change that the western world saw a rapid increase in anxiety and depression among teenagers, revealing a society unprepared for the technological upheaval it faced.

Haidt contends that the “virtual world” is disembodied, limiting communication to language without the physical contact and expressive synchronous communication that our brains evolved to master. It’s a world with little real physical risk, offering bursts of addictive dopamine as we scroll from post to post. Individuals can join many communities online but often do so without the social investment and learning necessary in face-to-face interactions. It’s a new world, one which has capitalized on our biology, but one we have not yet biologically or socially evolved to handle in a healthy way.

But this is not an anti-technology book, it’s a book about how two “experience blockers” disrupt the natural trajectory of development, making us lonelier and more anxious. Changes in parenting practices are the second “experience blocker.” Our efforts to keep teens safe have been changing over the decades, we’ve overprotected and overscheduled them, denying them the necessary risk-taking and discovery opportunities essential for brain development during adolescence. We have denied them even the basic joys of unstructured play. But our protections have been unbalanced, linked to his first point, we’ve failed to protect them in the digital world, where there’s no consensus on rites of passage or developmentally appropriate use of technology.

Haidt refers to these combined issues as the “Great Rewiring.” The book provides an excellent historical overview of changes in parenting and adolescent behavior over generations. You’ll see reflections of your parents, grandparents, and children, noticing the significant differences in practices and the physical environment for development. Effective images and graphs drive home his main arguments without overwhelming the reader with data points. The data presented speaks for itself, but lest you have doubts Haidt effectively handles and incorporates arguments he has gotten and wondered over the years. Allow him to open your eyes to the data that led him to writing this book.

While directed at parents, this book is important for socially responsible technologists, scientists, legislators, and educators. Throughout the book, Haidt offers a social scientist’s and parent’s perspective on guidelines for teens’ interaction with technology and social experiences. Supporting his thesis with reams of extensive but easily accessible research, Haidt explains the skills we need to rekindle and the new skills we need to develop to overcome the mental health damage inflicted on a generation by changing parenting practices and social media. He provides specific developmental timetables and strategies, backed by research and parenting experience, explaining how and when certain types of technology should be introduced. While you may not agree with every perspective or suggestion, Haidt’s chapters provide essential talking points and critical issues that must be addressed in our changing world.

Haidt assertively demonstrates that a laissez-faire approach to technology has led to an era of psychological problems that can only be combated with collective change of which we are all individually a part. As technological change shows no signs of slowing, his insights are more crucial than ever. We need to invest individually and in communities through real-world interactions preparing for our future.

Insight into a Bright Mind by Nicole Tetreault

Erik Jahner, PhD

April 17, 2024

Insight into a Bright Mind by Nicole Tetreault

Insight into a Bright Mind: A Neuroscientist’s Personal Stories of Unique Thinking is a profoundly personal book, authored by Nicole Tetreault who finds neuroscience deeply meaningful on a personal level, shaping her understanding of herself and the world around her. The book is a neuroscience-informed exploration of her own personal reflections as an individual who is twice exceptional, recounting experiences with teachers, peers, and her children and interpreting the often-misunderstood lives of other exceptional individuals. The narrative reveals how the author’s early encounters with neuroscience have been intricately woven into a deeper understanding of herself, transforming the book into a piece of literature rather than mere information. You will be introduced to her personal experience from running, to Barbie, mathematics, and coloring with her mother. You will experience her pain, frustration, and joy. This emotionally evocative narrative not only ignites curiosity but also prompts introspection into one’s own development and story.

The book excels in translating neuroscience into culturally relevant ideas including autism, giftedness, gender, intelligence, and creativity just to name a few. This is an example of how neuroscience can enrich our understanding of ourselves and others beyond appreciating biology alone. Crafted with aesthetic expertise, each paragraph is not only enjoyable to read but also brims with a fascinating array of information about the brain.

Prior to reading this book, I had assumed that the topic might not interest me, deeming it too specialized and applicable only to a niche audience. However, the book defies these expectations by delving into the stories of exceptional minds and brains, shedding light on what they can reveal about ourselves and our interactions. Celebrating diversity, it aims to elucidate and dispel misconceptions that arise when attempting to confine individuals into narrow categories.

Unlike typical neuroscience for the layperson or confessions from a research bench that require diligent study and note-taking, this book seamlessly integrates neuroscience into an exploratory narrative, leaving readers eager for more. While packed with neuroscience, the text remains accessible due to the author’s adept translation and incorporation into an engaging writing style.

Each chapter within the book serves as a compelling essay into the exceptional experiences and the unique nature of each brain which defies categorization. The initial chapters provide a solid foundation in neuroscience, dispelling common myths and the development of the brain, showcasing its uniqueness akin to a snowflake and a development that is equally complex as it unfolds and interacts with our world. Subsequent chapters delve into the intellectual, personal, and sensory experiences of gifted individuals, offering readers a profound appreciation for their exceptional perspective. As the narrative progresses, emotions and attention are explored in depth, each chapter contributing to a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the subject.

We then see an intriguing exploration of neurological uniqueness beyond descriptions of autism spectrum to enlighten the reader with a deeper more appreciative understanding of some of the differences that get lumped together into some diagnoses. We then get a surprising connection between the brain and the gut that is sure to only further tantalize your curiosity and expand your dinner conversations. Moreover, the book offers invaluable advice for parents throughout, presenting alternative perspectives on situations that may initially seem discouraging from a child’s developmental standpoint. It not only encourages parents to embrace their child’s unique abilities but also offers insights into how these abilities may not always align with the development of other skills. The lesson offered is clear. Help your child identify their strengths, those strengths may often be hidden by asynchronous development, and then foster an environment with love and informed support to help your child explore their potentials. The last chapter gives some concrete steps you will enjoy putting into practice as a parent or teacher.

Furthermore, Insight into a Bright Mind transcends being merely informative, emerging as a creative masterpiece in its own right. I believe this book hits a specific area where neuroscience, culture, and creativity meet. Few authors have been able to achieve this, and I would place this book in the realm of Oliver Sacks with a pinch of Walt Whitman or Maya Angelou bringing together science, story-telling, and poetry. Elegantly structured and vividly written, it tantalizes the senses, resembling a captivating novel as readers delve into the author’s mind and, in turn, reflect on their own.

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