The Science of Learning with Jared Cooney Horvath

American Montessori Society (AMS)

04 May 2026

What if the way we think about learning… is wrong? In this episode, Biff and Nicole sit down with neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath to break down what science actually tells us about how the brain learns—and why so many common approaches fall short. Drawing from research and real-world application, Horvath challenges popular assumptions and offers a clearer, more effective framework for understanding how children absorb, retain, and apply knowledge. Together, they explore: What’s really happening in the brain during learningWhy struggle and difficulty are essential for long-term retentionThe difference between performance and true learningCommon myths about memory, attention, and engagementHow educators and parents can better align with how the brain actually worksSharp, practical, and deeply thought-provoking, this conversation reframes learning as an active, effortful process—not something that should always feel easy or immediate. If you care about helping children learn more effectively—and more meaningfully—this episode will challenge your assumptions and reshape how you think about education. Contact Us: humanpotential@amshq.org Educating the Human Potential is a podcast about optimizing education for a better society, through a Montessori lens. Hosts Nicole Coman, a licensed educational psychologist specializing in school psychology and child development -- and a "Montessori mom" -- and Biff Maier, an American Montessori Society Living Legacy with decades of experience as a Montessori educator and school leader, engage with experts, educators, parents, and students. Each episode explores strategies to unlock human potential, offering thought-provoking conversations on learning, child development, and the evolving landscape of education. This podcast is presented by AMS, the American Montessori Society. For more information about Montessori education, visit https://amshq.org/about-montessori/ And consider this AMS course for families interested in incorporating the Montessori philosophy into their day-to-day lives and parenting approach: https://learn.amshq.org/parent-course-early-childhood Contact us: humanpotential@amshq.org