Overview

What if many of the things you believe about teaching and learning are actually wrong? That’s the question at the heart of Urban Myths about Learning and Education, a book that critically examines the unsubstantiated beliefs persisting in classrooms and staff rooms across Canada and beyond. Written by Pedro De Bruyckere, Paul A. Kirschner, and Casper D. Hulshof, this accessible yet rigorous work challenges the pseudoscience often mistaken for common sense in education. It offers educators, researchers, and policymakers a clear-eyed look at what the evidence really says—and what it doesn’t. Whether you’re a veteran teacher or a student of educational psychology, this volume provides a refreshing dose of critical thinking about our teaching methods and how students learn.

How Does This Book Help Educators?

By exposing the gap between popular belief and scientific evidence, this book empowers educators to make informed decisions about their practice. Instead of following fads or well-meaning but misguided advice, readers can base their choices on reliable data. The book is organized so that each chapter focuses on a specific myth, making it easy to reference during lesson planning or professional development discussions. Many readers have found it an eye-opening resource that strengthens their ability to evaluate educational claims critically. The authors don’t shy away from offering alternative, evidence-based perspectives that can genuinely improve teaching and learning.

Key Myths Debunked

While the book covers a wide range of topics, several recurring myths are systematically dismantled. These include the idea that students have specific “learning styles” that must be matched to instruction, that multitasking is an effective way to study, and that digital natives inherently know how to learn with technology. Each myth is traced to its origins, examined against available research, and shown to lack the empirical support often claimed by its proponents. The authors don’t just debunk—they provide actionable insights, such as incorporating retrieval practice, spacing out study sessions, or fostering a growth mindset.

Who Should Read This Book

This title is particularly valuable for teachers, school administrators, and educational psychologists who want to align their work with current research. It’s also an excellent text for undergraduate and graduate courses in educational psychology, curriculum design, and teacher training. Anyone involved in shaping educational policy or purchg learning materials will benefit from the clear, concise arguments presented here. The book assumes no prior expertise in research methods, making it accessible to a broad audience.

About the Authors

Pedro De Bruyckere, Paul A. Kirschner, and Casper D. Hulshof are respected voices in educational research. Their combined expertise spans cognitive psychology, instructional design, and the science of learning. They have written extensively on applying evidence to education and are committed to bridging the gap between research and practice.

Practical Applications

Rather than simply critiquing existing practices, Urban Myths about Learning and Education provides actionable takeaways. For each myth, the authors suggest what teachers can do instead—whether it’s using retrieval practice, spacing study sessions, or encouraging a growth mindset. The book can serve as a springboard for staff meetings, book clubs, or personal reflection. Its call-out boxes highlight key studies and questions for discussion, making it a practical tool for school-wide professional development.