ASCD Presenter Bio

Martha Kaufeldt

Martha Kaufeldt is a member of the Transformative Education Forum, convened by the Geneva Global Challenges Forum. She is a veteran educator; author; professional development specialist; and popular presenter at education conferences, motivational workshops, and trainings. Kaufeldt has a master's degree in human behavior and development and is interested in the latest cognitive neuroscience research. She works to translate the findings into classroom applications. 

Kaufeldt believes that many of the most basic tenets of natural learning are neglected. Outdoor experiences, collaborative group work, imaginative play, projects, visual and performing arts, movement, and maintaining emotional health and well-being are being nudged out of many students' school experiences. Kaufeldt is also a strong advocate for project- and place-based curriculum, the integration of social skills, and opportunities to develop emotional health. Her most recent book is coauthored with Gayle Gregory, titled Think Big, Start Small: How to Differentiate In a Brain-Friendly Classroom (2012, Solution Tree). Her previous books include Begin With the Brain: Orchestrating the Learner-Centered Classroom and Teachers, Change Your Bait! Brain-Compatible Differentiated Instruction.