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  2. EDU H128

Curiosity in Learning and Development
EDU H128

Jointly Offered with: Faculty of Arts & Sciences as EDST 128

Course Information

Description

*Lottery-Based Enrollment* Why are human’s the only agents in the known universe that wonder “why”, and where does this epistemic curiosity come from? Parents, educators, and policy makers agree that we want to raise a generation of learners who are curious and creative thinkers. Our psychological theories suggest that curiosity is a critical component of learning. But to foster it, we must understand how it functions in the developing mind.

In this course, students will learn about the current cutting-edge science of curiosity from a cognitive science perspective. In addition to engaging in course discussions of the scientific literature, students will apply this knowledge in group assignments that will focus on how curiosity may be studied in the lab and will brainstorm on how it can be deployed in the classroom. As part of these assignments, students will build skills in talking about curiosity – whether it be to a scientific research funder, school administrator, or policy maker. A final group project will allow students to hone the knowledge and skills gained in the course by receiving feedback from a group of expert panelists.

No prerequisites for HGSE Masters students. Strongly recommended for students in LDIT and HDE programs. Pending space, this course will be open with instructor permission to advanced education and psychology undergraduates with a strong interest in the cognitive science of learning. Enrollment will be limited to 30 students.

Class Notes

 

School Graduate School of Education
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Department Education
Course Component Regular Course
Instruction Mode In Person
Subject Education
Grading Basis HGSE Student Option (Letter Graded, Sat/Unsat)
Learning Goals Students will develop a deep understanding of the cognitive science of curiosity, including how it arises, how it can be measured, and how it supports learning and creativity in early childhood and beyond. Through discussions, presentations, and a final group project, students will strengthen their ability to critically read scientific literature, design curiosity-promoting interventions, and effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences including educators, policymakers, and funders.
Career Focus <p>This course supports students aiming for careers in research (especially cognitive development), academia, and evidence-based education reform. It equips students with skills in reading, designing, and communicating empirical work on curiosity and learning. Graduates will be prepared for roles in cognitive science, psychology, and educational research settings that emphasize inquiry, exploration, and scientific advancement.</p>