Back to School, Back to Basics: Busting Education Myths

As school starts again, some of us veteran teachers may think we’ve got a strong handle on education best practices and go on autopilot. But do we have any blind spots? 

Education is a field steeped in opinion and debate, from teaching styles to what is the best pen to grade with (it’s G2s, no matter what anyone says.) With information overload at our fingertips, separating fact from fiction has become more work. To improve our teaching skillsets, let’s question whether some of education’s longstanding beliefs still hold up.

Here are nine educational myths that still linger in popular belief but have been debunked by research. How many do you still hear today?

Myth 1: More homework means better results

It’s a long-held belief that adding extra homework is the key to academic success. But is this really true?

Overburdened students may experience increased stress, decreased sleep, and less time for extracurricular activities, hobbies, and family time—all of which can impact overall well-being and academic performance. As noted by research, “increasing the amount of homework past a certain threshold does not increase academic performance.”

Moreover, the home environment plays a significant role in how students engage with homework. Factors such as parental support, access to resources, and a quiet space for study can greatly influence the effectiveness of homework assignments. Without these supportive conditions, additional homework may exacerbate inequities and hinder academic progress.

Instead of focusing solely on quantity, it’s essential to prioritize the quality of homework. Tasks that are engaging, challenging, and relevant to students’ lives are more likely to promote academic success.  

Myth 2: Standardized tests are an accurate measure of a student's abilities

Standardized tests have long been the go-to metric for evaluating student performance. However, do these high-stakes exams truly provide an accurate picture of a student's abilities? 

As Quanya Yang highlighted in a 2023 article in the Journal of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, "A statical correlation between high scores on standardized tests and relatively shallow thinking have been found. Within the limited time given, the most important task to accomplish is to get as many correct answers possible rather than discovering the reasons behind it."​ 

Additionally, these tests can be influenced by factors beyond a student's academic abilities, such as socioeconomic status, test anxiety, and cultural biases.

And as education researcher Steve Ritter points out, standardized tests may overestimate the extent of students' learning gaps. Dr. Ritter states, "The scores might suggest that students are missing a huge amount of knowledge and skills and that they need tons of reteaching and remediation. But in reality, most students are probably able to catch up more quickly than the test scores might lead you to believe." 

It's crucial to recognize the limitations of standardized tests and to consider a broader range of assessments. Formative assessments, portfolios, projects, presentations, and classroom observations provide a more holistic view of a student's growth and development.

Myth 3: Learning styles are fixed

Many people believe they have a specific learning style—a preference for visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learning. It’s common to think teachers should tailor instruction to these preferences.

However, scientific research contradicts this belief and states that learning styles are unscientifically organized into seemingly arbitrary categories.

Learning styles, in fact, are unstable and unreliable. According to research, these preferred learning methods can fluctuate based on the subject matter and even over time. For instance, someone might favor hands-on learning for history but rely on visual aids for calculus. This inconsistency raises questions about whether learning styles are enduring personal traits or temporary states of mind. Given their transient nature, the practical value of learning styles is questionable.

While students may lean toward certain learning modalities, focusing solely on these preferences doesn’t optimize learning. Effective instruction involves engaging students in interactive activities and connecting new information to their existing knowledge.

Myth 4: Boys are better at math than girls

This outdated stereotype has persisted for far too long. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that boys are inherently better at math than girls. Research consistently shows that girls and boys can both perform at high levels of math.

The misconception that boys excel in math has led to harmful gender stereotypes that can limit girls' aspirations in STEM fields. When girls are told, even subtly, that they are not as good at math as boys, it can impact their confidence and motivation.

The silver lining is that when teachers help their female students prove this education myth wrong, the accomplishment feels that much sweeter–as Colorado teacher Krista Borland knows firsthand. 

She shares, “It was a special moment because so often in math class, we hear girls say, ‘Well, I'm a girl. I'm not supposed to know how to do math.’ And to watch these young ladies be starry-eyed and ecstatic about all the progress they’re making is just awesome.”

It's essential to challenge this myth and create an environment where all students, regardless of gender, feel supported and encouraged to pursue their interests in math and science. 

Myth 5: We only use 10% of our brains

Hollywood loves the idea that humans use only a small portion of their brains. This notion formed the basis of the movies Lucy (2014) and Limitless (2011). Both films ask the audience to imagine what they could accomplish if they could use 100% of their brains.  

This isn’t Hollywood, and you’re stuck with an ordinary brain. The good news is that you do use 100% of your brain. As you look around the room, your visual cortex is busy assembling images, your motor cortex is busy moving your neck, and all associative areas recognize the objects you see.  

Meanwhile, the corpus callosum, a thick band of neurons connecting the two hemispheres, ensures that this information is coordinated. The brain does this automatically, freeing space to ponder deep, abstract concepts—like mathematics!

Evidence from brain imaging research shows that much of the brain is active even when a person is at rest and that different tasks recruit different neural networks that span virtually the entire brain. This dispels the myth that we only use a small portion of our brain. 

Our brains are incredibly complex organs that are constantly working, even when we are not actively engaged in a task.

Myth 6: Bilingual students will be confused by learning two languages

It's a common misconception that learning two languages simultaneously will confuse students. However, research consistently shows that bilingualism is beneficial for cognitive development.

Young minds are incredibly adaptable and capable of learning multiple languages simultaneously. Bilingual students often develop stronger language skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity compared to their monolingual peers.

While it's normal for bilingual students to mix languages initially, this is a natural part of the learning process and doesn't indicate confusion. As they grow older, they typically develop the ability to separate the two languages with ease.

Myth 7: Technology is only a distraction in the classroom

It's a common misconception that technology is solely a source of distraction in the classroom. While it's true that devices can be misused, they also offer immense potential for enhancing learning and engagement. Technology can be a powerful tool for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Studies have shown that technology, when used effectively, can enhance the learning experience by providing interactive and personalized learning opportunities, thereby fostering student engagement and motivation. For example, the use of educational software and online resources can support differentiated instruction and allow students to learn at their own pace.​

Technology can help develop essential digital literacy skills crucial for success in the 21st century. The key lies in responsible integration and effective teaching strategies that guide students in using technology as a learning tool rather than a diversion.

Myth 8: Memorization is the key to learning

For generations, we've been taught to believe that learning is synonymous with memorization. Cramming facts and figures for tests has been a staple of traditional education. However, this approach overlooks the deeper dimensions of understanding and application.

Research shows that learning is most effective when it involves active engagement, spaced repetition, and the application of knowledge to different contexts, rather than mere rote memorization.

While memorization has its place in learning, it shouldn't be the primary focus. True understanding comes from connecting new information and existing knowledge, applying conceptual understanding to real-world situations, and developing critical thinking skills. When students are encouraged to question, analyze, and create, they are more likely to retain and use information effectively.

Myth 9: Gifted students do not need support

A common misconception is that gifted students are inherently self-sufficient and require minimal support. While it's true that these students often demonstrate exceptional abilities, they still benefit significantly from tailored instruction and encouragement.

Gifted students can experience unique challenges like perfectionism, underachievement, or social isolation. Without appropriate support, they may become bored, frustrated, or disengaged. 

Providing enrichment opportunities, challenging coursework, and mentorship can help gifted students reach their full potential. Recognizing that even the brightest minds need guidance and nurturing to flourish is essential.

Shattering education myths

Many of our long-held beliefs about education are simply untrue. We can create a more effective and equitable learning environment by dispelling these nine education myths.

To achieve this, we must prioritize evidence-based practices, recognize individual differences, and foster collaboration between educators, students, and families.

Let's build a future where every student can thrive. Discover how to unlock your students' full potential by shattering education myths and harnessing the power of the brain. Watch our webinar, "The Science of Learning: How the Brain Knows Best," to learn how to apply these principles in your classroom..