Beyond the frame: Applying cognitive science principles for progress

Frames for Learning (F4L) is a CPD programme for teachers and teaching assistants which aims to improve science attainment by scaffolding how teachers and their pupils approach multi-staged science tasks. F4L was an EEF-funded pipeline project, September 2023 – July 2024. The F4L programme aims to increase pupils’ recall, knowledge, and understanding in science, by supporting teachers to use the F4L approach. The ‘frame’ itself is an elegantly simple and readily accessible approach and curriculum tool used to develop a scaffolded pedagogy to science enquiry in science enquiry type activities that supports the progress of all learners, including disadvantaged learners. This approach can be integrated into the existing curriculum and supports teachers to develop and deliver lessons which optimise the amount of information children must process at once (cognitive load) whilst building on pre-existing knowledge and understanding (schema development) to support learning outcomes. Year 5 teachers and teaching assistants from 17 primary schools in South Yorkshire and neighbouring regions completed the pilot. Training took place through a mix of face-to-face and online CPD sessions. Initially, teachers were trained to use worked examples that they could apply immediately. The training programme culminated in teachers planning and delivering their own lessons using the F4L approach. Alongside these applied skills, attendees gained an appreciation of how applied psychology and cognitive science can make a difference to teaching and learning in the primary classroom. This interactive workshop is hosted by the lead developer of the F4L programme: Andy Bullough of Sheffield Hallam University with Geoff Lewis of the University of Warwick evaluation team. In this workshop Andy and Geoff will: •Introduction to F4L and Cognitive science Principles •Test and reflect on our approach (involving small group activity) •Discussion and Q & A time During the session an exemplar frame activity will be used to consider how the frame can support good practice in the classroom through the application of cognitive science concepts and principles such as focus, attention, cognitive load theory, schema development, dialogic approaches and metacognition in the classroom setting. We will also consider some common challenges, such as measuring cognitive load through self-reporting techniques, and consider what works best for learners. Building the frame into lesson plans can help ensure that learners are ‘on task’ and focused on the intended activity, learning the required curriculum content, and successfully achieving the learning objectives of the task. The workshop is suitable for all educators and will reflect on the 2025 EEF F4L evaluation report to explore the ways in which cognitive science-informed approaches can be applied in the classroom. By attending this workshop, delegates will develop an enhanced appreciation of how cognitive science approaches can be applied in the classroom.  In addition, the workshop is an opportunity to learn more about the frames approach as well as possible future F4L CPD opportunities.