Psychology One Conference
Teaching Expo:
The Edible Neuron: Tangible Learning for Memory Retention
Diana Milillo
Brief Description:
We will cover a short and concrete active learning activity to build a model neuron out of candy. Students work in small groups to identify and create the parts of a neuron. Once built, the neuron can be used to demonstrate parts of the neuronal anatomy (e.g., dendrites, soma, myelin sheath), as well as related and relevant neural processes (e.g., action potential). We can use our candy neurons to talk about what happens when parts of the neuron break down, in conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. The activity is fun and has also produced long-term knowledge-based learning.
We will cover a short and concrete active learning activity to build a model neuron out of candy. Students work in small groups to identify and create the parts of a neuron. Once built, the neuron can be used to demonstrate parts of the neuronal anatomy (e.g., dendrites, soma, myelin sheath), as well as related and relevant neural processes (e.g., action potential). We can use our candy neurons to talk about what happens when parts of the neuron break down, in conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. The activity is fun and has also produced long-term knowledge-based learning.
Speaker Bio:
Diana Milillo, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Nassau Community College. She has a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Connecticut. She has been teaching several sections of General Psychology each semester since she began teaching at NCC in 2006. Dr. Milillo has taught General Psychology in several formats, such as online sections, honors sections, and Gateway sections for students with developmental/remedial course placements. Additionally, Dr. Milillo is interested the impact of trauma on learning, and researches and teaches on the topic.
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Diana Milillo, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Nassau Community College. She has a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Connecticut. She has been teaching several sections of General Psychology each semester since she began teaching at NCC in 2006. Dr. Milillo has taught General Psychology in several formats, such as online sections, honors sections, and Gateway sections for students with developmental/remedial course placements. Additionally, Dr. Milillo is interested the impact of trauma on learning, and researches and teaches on the topic.
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