Understanding Schemas and Mental Models in Education

Welcome back to The Elements of Great Teaching podcast series, where we continue breaking down the elements of what makes great teaching. In this sixth episode, Adam Kohlbeck and I focus on Dimension 3: Maximising Opportunity to Learn, with a spotlight on Element 2: Consistent and fair application of expectations from the Model for Great Teaching. We highlight the importance of clarity and fairness. When students understand the rules and know they’ll be enforced predictably, classrooms become spaces where focus and learning can flourish. Adam and I explore how applying these principles consistently helps students feel secure, while also reducing behaviour issues. Listen to the full episode below to learn more about creating a classroom culture of trust and clarity.