The Science of Learning in Education Centre (SoLEC) is the latest research centre to be established at the National Institute of Education (NIE). Officiating at the launch ceremony on 24 March 2021 were Mr Lai Chung Han, Permanent Secretary (Education) at the Ministry of Education and Chairman of NIE Council; alongside NIE Director, Professor Christine Goh.
With the establishment of this institution-wide infrastructure, researchers and teachers can look forward to making a deeper impact on the lives of learners in Singapore. SoLEC will complement our existing education research capabilities with state-of-the-art neuroimaging, physiological data capture and modelling techniques to synthesise research investigations and findings. By combining scientific and systemic knowledge with educational practices, the centre aims to translate education research into stronger pedagogical designs to optimise learning for all students.
A new Master’s programme was also announced in conjunction with the launch of SoLEC. The Master of Science (Science of Learning) programme, with an NTU MiniMastersTM in Mind, Brain and Education, offers interdisciplinary experiences in neuroscience, biology, computer science, engineering and education, in partnership with Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine. Students who are enrolled in the new programme can expect to acquire the necessary skillset to design progressive learning solutions for Singapore’s smart and future-ready workforce.
The launch event featured a limited attendance due to safe distancing measures. However, the unveiling of an opening plaque, as well as a panel discussion kicked off by Professor David Hung, Dean of the NIE Office of Education Research (OER) and Centre Director of SoLEC, was livestreamed to an online audience of about 140 attendees. Full details about the launch event can be found at this link.