Action Science

Action Science

An overview of today's diverse theoretical and methodological approaches to action and the relationship of action and cognition. The emerging field of action science is characterized by a diversity of theoretical and methodological approaches that share the basic functional belief that evolution has optimized cognitive systems to serve the demands of action. This book brings together the constitutive approaches of action science in a single source, covering the relation of action to such cognitive functions as perception, attention, memory, and volition. Each chapter offers a tutorial-like description of a major line of inquiry, written by a leading scientist in the field. Taken together, the chapters reflect a dynamic and rapidly growing field and provide a forum for comparison and possible integration of approaches. After discussing core questions about how actions are controlled and learned, the book considers ecological approaches to action science; neurocogntive approaches to action understanding and attention; developmental approaches to action science; social actions, including imitation and joint action; and the relationships between action and the conceptual system (grounded cognition) and between volition and action. An emerging discipline depends on a rich and multifaceted supply of theoretical and methodological approaches. The diversity of perspectives offered in this book will serve as a guide for future explorations in action science. Contributors Lawrence W. Barsalou, Miriam Beisert, Valerian Chambon, Thomas Goschke, Patrick Haggard, Arvid Herwig, Herbert Heuer, Cecilia Heyes, Bernhard Hommel, Glyn W. Humphreys, Richard B. Ivry, Markus Kiefer, Günther Knoblich, Sally A. Linkenauger, Janeen D. Loehr, Peter J. Marshall, Andrew N. Meltzoff, Wolfgang Prinz, Dennis R. Proffitt, Giacomo Rizzolatti, David A. Rosenbaum, Natalie Sebanz, Corrado Sinigaglia, Sandra Sülzenbrück, Jordan A. Taylor, Michael T. Turvey, Claes von Hofsten, Rebecca A. Williamson

Action science

Action Science

Put student engagement on the fast-track Think action sports like skateboarding and BMX have nothing to do with physical science? Think again, especially as they relate to fundamental physics concepts like motion, force, and simple machines—not to mention the problem solving required. What’s more, because kids will want to, observing action sports is a perfect vehicle for promoting self-directed and collaborative learning . . . with Action Science as your driver’s manual. Through a combination of book and video, Bill Robertson provides all the materials you’ll need to get started, with the NGSS very much in full view. Inside and outside, you’ll find: Detailed instructional methods on momentum, center of gravity, inertia, and centrifugal and centripetal forces Hands-on classroom activities and experiments, including some utilizing common household materials Captivating video via QR codes of top professional and amateur extreme sports athletes demonstrating authentic, high-flying maneuvers Robertson, an associate professor in science and technology education at the University of Texas at El Paso--and an avid skateboarder—has extensively piloted the Action Science program. It works! "This is an outstanding resource for any middle school science teacher trying to engage unmotivated students or implement problem-based learning strategies in a way that is exciting and meaningful!" --Melissa Miller, Middle School Science Teacher Lynch Middle School Farmington, AR