Perceptions of intelligence influence and shape student-teacher expectations. Impression formation is profoundly influenced by beauty, but the existence of facial cues which affect judgments beyond such an "attractiveness halo" may be underestimated. These cues include eyelid-openness and subtle smiling that enhance intelligence ratings independent of attractiveness. In this talk, Sean advocates a healthier lifestyle so that people can improve their perceived intelligence, regardless of their attractiveness and also shares useful information with educators, mentors and coaches alike to help combat the impact of biased teaching practices – for the best antidote to deter unconscious bias is to make it conscious.

Sean Talamas is currently a PhD Candidate at the University of St. Andrews. He earned a Masters in Psychology and another Masters in Teaching both at Austin Peay State University. He completed all of his Education while serving as full-time Active duty in the US Air Force in a combat career field known as Tactical Air Control Party. He got the opportunity to attend some of the most challenging and rewarding training courses the military has to offer including Airborne, Air Assault, and Survive, Evade, Resist, and Escape (S.E.R.E) courses. His personal journey has made him aware that obstacles are often simply complex challenges to find solutions. His research investigates individual differences like the personality and intelligence of educators and its influence on perceived intelligence of students. His interests in this area stems from a belief that we must uncover potential limitations to proper mentorship so that educators can impartially educate regardless of first impressions.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx