Talking Teaching

Sally Lasslett, Executive Principal of Hester Hornbrook Academy, and Elida Brereton, former principal and board member, dive into the transformative power of Special Assistance Schools. They discuss a healing-oriented educational approach tailored for at-risk youth, blending wellness and rigorous learning. The duo highlights the significance of wraparound supports and personalized learning, along with the impact of dynamic, student-centered environments. They also explore alumni support pathways and the lessons mainstream schools can learn from their innovative practices.

Dr. Jennifer Buckingham, an academic researcher and literacy advocate, dives into the essential role of reading in education. She highlights why reading is more than just decoding—it's crucial for comprehension and lifelong learning. The conversation touches on the evolution of reading instruction in Australia, emphasizing systematic phonics and evidence-based practices. Buckingham also discusses the challenges of secondary literacy, the impact of screen reading on comprehension, and the potential of AI in education. Her passion for fostering a love of reading and building teacher knowledge shines through.

Join Jan Hare, an Anishinaabe scholar and Dean at UBC, as she enlightens listeners on Indigenous approaches to early childhood education. She shares the importance of viewing children as sacred gifts and the role of storytelling, like the Three Sisters, in nurturing identity and community ties. Jan emphasizes the concept of land education, connecting children to their environment and heritage, while promoting holistic learning. Her insights encourage educators to integrate Indigenous principles into their practice, reshaping teaching for a brighter future.

Join Laureate Professor Emeritus John Hattie, a world-renowned measurement expert and author of Visible Learning, as he shares insights from five decades of educational research. He discusses the true measures of educational success beyond test scores, emphasizing belonging and engagement. Hattie reflects on his journey from statistics to meta-analysis, the importance of teacher expertise, and the transformative potential of AI in classrooms. He also explores the balance between curriculum depth and student challenge, advocating for a thoughtful approach to teaching.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. John Doolah, a proud Torres Strait Islander and lecturer in Indigenous education at the University of Melbourne, dives into his rich heritage and the importance of integrating Torres Strait Islander knowledge in classrooms. He reflects on his journey from railway worker to academic and highlights the need for educators to blend Indigenous and Western knowledge. John emphasizes the significance of storytelling, kinship, and community engagement in education, urging a respectful and collaborative approach that honors both past and future generations.

How does language shape how we feel, relate, and learn? In this episode, host Dr. Sophie Specjal is joined by Professor Lindsay Oades, Dr Jacqui Francis and Lisa Baker to explore the emerging concept of Wellbeing Literacy; the capability to intentionally use language to foster wellbeing, including educational settings.Together, they unpack how language can be used not just to communicate, but to regulate emotions, build community, and support learning across all stages. From arts-based programs in the Goulburn Valley to play-based learning in early years, this conversation highlights the real-world potential of integrating Wellbeing Literacy into everyday educational practice. Professor Lindsay Oades is the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Education, Dr Jacqui Francis is a Lecturer at the Centre for Wellbeing Science and Lisa Baker is a Project Officer at the REEaCh Centre. Click the episode link for more information and key resources. Talking Teaching is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We’d love to hear your feedback on the series, send your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to foe-news@unimelb.edu.au. This podcast is produced by the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne.

In this engaging conversation, Professor Guy Claxton, an expert in Learning Sciences, shares his insights on the transformative nature of education. He argues that learning is not just about knowledge but shaping who we are. Claxton critiques oversimplified teaching models and emphasizes balancing explanation with exploration. He highlights the pivotal role of embodiment—how movement and gestures deepen understanding. Listeners will be inspired by his vision of nurturing curiosity and fostering resilience in students through innovative teaching practices.

As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into schools, what does it mean for the way we plan lessons, support students, and teach mathematics? Dr Sophie Specjal explores the evolving role of AI in education with Dr Scott Cameron, Dr Carmel Mesiti, and Mr Luke Clift. They discuss the use of tools like ChatGPT in lesson planning, the impact on teacher workload, and how AI might support, or hinder, student engagement. Drawing on research and classroom practice, the guests unpack the variability of AI-generated content, the need for critical reflection, and the ethical considerations of AI in schools.Dr Scott Cameron is a Lecturer in Mathematics Education at the Faculty of Education with an interest in using technology and AI to support teaching and learning.Dr Carmel Mesiti is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Education and expert in mathematics pedagogies for both primary and secondary education.Mr Luke Clift is a practicing teacher at Kardinia International College, trialling AI in lesson planning and its use and impact in the classroom.More information and useful links are available via this ⁠link⁠.Talking Teaching is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We’d love to hear your feedback on the series, send your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to foe-news@unimelb.edu.au. This podcast is produced by the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne.

Professor Gert Biesta, an esteemed educator at Maynooth University and the University of Edinburgh, dives into the deeper purpose of education. He discusses his transition from post-war Rotterdam and outlines three dimensions of learning: qualification, socialization, and subjectification. The conversation highlights the evolving role of teachers in fostering critical thinking and student agency, particularly as education grapples with AI advancements. Biesta also advocates for a world-centered curriculum, emphasizing the importance of integrating students' experiences in education.

What does effective curriculum design look like in today’s classrooms? And how can planning approaches support both student engagement and teacher agency? Dr Sophie Specjal speaks with Auburn South Primary School’s Rhian ap Rees and Darien Hunte, along with Professor John Quay from the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Education. They explore a framework developed by Professor Quay that combines backward design with inquiry-based learning, and share practical examples of how creative, collaborative planning is making a difference in the classroom. John Quay is a Professor at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Education.Rhian ap Rees is Assistant Principal at Auburn South Primary School.Darien Hunte teaches Year 4 at Auburn South Primary School. More information and useful links are available via this ⁠link⁠.Talking Teaching is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We’d love to hear your feedback on the series, send your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to foe-news@unimelb.edu.au. This podcast is produced by the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne.