Important information
The National AI Centre (NAIC) is transitioning from CSIRO to the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISR) on 1st July 2024. You can find the latest NAIC content at industry.gov.au. For any NAIC-related questions, please email NAIC@industry.gov.au.
About
The Classroom Brain is a three-part teacher resource series created by Dr Dana Bradford (CSIRO) and developed by CSIRO Education and Outreach, to help educators understand how the brain shapes learning, behaviour, curiosity, attention, and wellbeing in the classroom. The series translates neuroscience research into practical, classroom-ready strategies that support diverse learners and foster engaging, brain-friendly environments. Together, the three parts guide teachers through the science of curiosity, teamwork, attention, memory, movement, and mindfulness. Each module provides explanations and practical activities that can be readily adapted to suit different classrooms and learners. Overall, the series supports educators to make informed decisions grounded in cognitive science and to create classrooms where all students can thrive.
The Classroom Brain is delivered by STEM Together in partnership with BHP Foundation.
This self-paced online course will take approximately 2 hours to complete.
Available resources
Australian Curriculum links
View how these resources can be linked to certain learning areas within the Australian curriculum and the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.
Download Australian Curriculum links PDF (192 KB)
Download Australian Curriculum links - text version TXT (2 KB)
Teacher resources
Module 1: Engaging curiosity and teamwork
Module 1 explores how curiosity drives learning and offers strategies to spark and sustain it in the classroom. It explains practical ways to build supportive, curious learning environments and strengthen collaboration through effective whole brain teamwork. Teachers gain insights into how questioning, modelling, and positive classroom culture can enhance student engagement.
This module takes approximately 35 minutes to complete.
Open module 1 [Link will open in a new window]
Module 2: Harnessing attention and memory for better learning
Module 2 explores the neural basis of attention and memory, and how fluctuations in attention can be used to improve learning. It provides practical techniques such as chunking, signalling key points, reducing cognitive load, using worked examples, and building schemas. The resource also highlights the role of metacognition and offers strategies for helping students understand and regulate their own thinking.
This module takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.
Open module 2 [Link will open in a new window]
Module 3: Healthy, happy brains
Module 3 demonstrates how movement and mindfulness can enhance student cognition, behaviour, and wellbeing. Teachers are provided with classroom-ready movement breaks, discussion structures, and mindfulness exercises that can be used at any time of day. The resource emphasises how these practices support emotional regulation, focus, and readiness to learn, contributing to a healthier classroom environment.
This module takes approximately 35 minutes to complete.
Open module 3 [Link will open in a new window]