Join us for the inaugural Middle Years Conference, taking place virtually on December 5-6, 2024. This engaging two-day event, presented by the International Curriculum Association (ICA) and the IMYC, is designed for educators, leaders and parents worldwide.
Ideal for Middle Years educators, leaders and parents
Our virtual conference will explore the Seven Needs of the Teenage Brain, represented by the acronym IMPARTS: Interlinking Learning, Making Meaning, Peers, Agency, Risk-taking, Transition and our newest addition—Sleep. Adding Sleep highlights its essential role in adolescent learning, further enriching our comprehensive understanding of adolescent development.
Research shows that teenagers require more than the traditional 8 hours of sleep per night for optimal health and functioning. However, studies indicate that many adolescents do not get sufficient sleep, often due to early school start times, academic pressures, social activities and social media. Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making. Furthermore, a lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, increased stress levels, and a higher risk of mental health issues. Recognising the importance of sleep for teens can lead to better academic performance, improved mental health, and overall well-being.
Learn more about the teenage brain with the new Seven Needs of the Teenage Brain Research Guide on the Curriculum Portal.
Keynote Speakers
On Thursday, December 5 prepare to be enlightened by Keynote Speakers Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright as they share groundbreaking insights from their book, Generation Sleepless. Their engaging session will uncover the latest findings on how sleep impacts teenagers and their learning and provide practical advice for fostering healthier sleep habits.
Then, on Friday, December 6, don't miss the exciting reveal of our ICA collaboration with EdTech company 8billionideas. Founder and CEO David Harkin will captivate the audience with his talk on innovative developments in education, well-being and sleep. This session will inspire new ways of thinking about the role of sleep in adolescent success and highlight why sleep, as the seventh need of the teenage brain, is more important than ever.
What to Expect
Participants will engage in a variety of workshops designed to practically implement each of the needs of the teenage brain in their teaching. The conference will feature engaging sessions led by the Head of the IMYC, ensuring a rich, collaborative learning experience. Highlights include the presentation of groundbreaking research on 'Sleep and its Impact on Learning in Adolescence' and insights from keynote speakers on sleep research and learning.
Whether you aim to enrich your teaching practices or connect with fellow educators from around the world, the upcoming virtual Middle Years Conference 2024 offers a unique opportunity to foster an educational environment that is innovative and nurturing for the teenage brain.
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