Module 01: Scientific Curiosity and Motivation

Teaching Deck

Learning Objectives

  • Explain why connectomics matters scientifically
  • Formulate one testable connectomics question
  • Distinguish motivating narratives from evidence-backed claims
  • Identify personal learning goals for the technical track

Session Outcomes

  • Learners can complete the module capability target.
  • Learners can produce one evidence-backed artifact.
  • Learners can state one limitation or uncertainty.

Agenda (60 min)

  • 0-10 min: Frame and model
  • 10-35 min: Guided practice
  • 35-50 min: Debrief and misconception correction
  • 50-60 min: Competency check + exit ticket

Capability Target

Write one connectomics study question with measurable structural outputs and one explicit non-claim.

Concept Focus

1) Question before method

  • Technical: define target measurement before tool choice.
  • Plain language: know what you are asking first.
  • Misconception: tools generate good questions automatically.

Core Workflow

  • Identify curiosity question.
  • Convert to measurable structural hypothesis.
  • Define one metric and one limitation.
  • Plan first dataset/tool touchpoint.

60-Minute Run-of-Show

  • 00:00-08: Why map the brain?
  • 08:00-20: question framing examples.
  • 20:00-34: learner question drafting.
  • 34:00-46: evidence-boundary critique.
  • 46:00-56: revise to testable hypotheses.
  • 56:00-60: exit ticket.

Misconceptions to Watch

  • Misconception: tools generate good questions automatically.
  • Misconception: connectome equals full explanation.
  • Misconception: broad vision statements are sufficient project plans.

Studio Activity

Draft one question-to-hypothesis sheet with metric, dataset, and non-claim.

Activity Output Checklist

  • Evidence-linked artifact submitted.
  • At least one limitation or uncertainty stated.
  • Revision point captured from feedback.

Assessment Rubric

  • Minimum: question, metric, limitation all present.
  • Strong: clear falsification condition and realistic scope.
  • Failure: motivational text without measurable outputs.

Exit Ticket

Write a 3-sentence hypothesis with one metric and one caveat.

References (Instructor)

  • Use module references listed on the module page.

Teaching Materials

  • Module page: /modules/module01/
  • Slide page: /modules/slides/module01/
  • Worksheet: /assets/worksheets/module01/module01-activity.md