Education Research Reading Room

James Mannion, a passionate educator and reform advocate, discusses his new book on implementing effective change in schools. He addresses the importance of sustainability in educational practices and shares insights from implementation science, emphasizing the need for collaboration and inclusivity in decision-making. Mannion advocates for hiring diverse teams to enhance team dynamics and stresses the significance of continual evaluation. He introduces innovative strategies like the 'life wheel' model, aimed at transforming educational practices for improved learner effectiveness.

Benjamin Riley, founder of Cognitive Resonance and former head of Deans for Impact, dives deep into the perils of AI in education. He highlights the necessity for caution in applying AI technologies, discussing their unpredictable nature and ethical implications. Riley contrasts the evolution of educational systems in Australia and England, emphasizing the role of cognitive science and collaborative efforts. The conversation also touches on the societal risks of AI, including its potential to undermine traditional teaching and its connection to authoritarianism.

Host Ollie Lovell speaks with Alex Evans, Deputy Headteacher at St Luke’s Church of England School about the St Luke's change journey that moved the school from the bottom 20% of schools nationally, to the top 20%, within 4 years. This is a story of systematic instructional and curricular change, leveraging the power of Instructional Coaching. Full show notes at www.ollielovell.com/alexevans

Join parenting author Steve Biddulph as he dives into the roots of anxiety, particularly in young boys, drawing insights from his latest book, 'Wild Creature Mind.' He discusses the brain's hemispheres and their roles in managing emotions. Steve emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and communication in educational settings. He explores holistic approaches to therapy, advocating for connection over traditional methods. With practical parenting advice, he highlights the transformative power of self-compassion and kindness in fostering emotional stability.

David Morkunas, a seasoned mathematics educator, shares invaluable insights on crafting high-quality math lessons within the Explicit Mathematics Program. He discusses the significance of structured lesson planning and collaborations that enhance student engagement. Morkunas emphasizes the blend of clear focus and appropriate difficulty in effective instruction, alongside the role of reviews in cementing learning. He also tackles the balance between teacher autonomy and scripted methods, advocating for continuous learning and connections among educators.

Steve Capp, an acclaimed school principal known for his expertise in turning around primary schools, shares invaluable insights on effective leadership. He discusses the importance of empathy in decision-making and how it can enhance school culture. Capp emphasizes the critical role of evidence-based teaching strategies in improving literacy and numeracy. He also highlights the need for collaboration among educators and the value of recognition in fostering a positive learning environment. Ultimately, he advocates for a culture of continuous improvement in schools.

In this insightful discussion, Jonathan Sharples, a Professorial Research Fellow at the Education Endowment Foundation, shares practical strategies for enhancing educational programs. He delves into the importance of effective implementation and the challenges of translating evidence-based practices into real-world changes. Topics include the critical role of professional development, the integration of teaching assistants, and the necessity of continuous monitoring. Sharples emphasizes collaboration and tailored approaches to foster a culture of improvement and sustainability in education.

Jennifer Buckingham, Executive Director of the Centre of Educational Studies and Evaluation, bridges research and practice to combat illiteracy. She discusses the stark differences in literacy instruction and policies across the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Key topics include how these frameworks impact international assessments like PISA and PIRLS and the role of cultural context in shaping educational outcomes. Buckingham also emphasizes the necessity of evidence-based practices, effective teacher training, and systemic assessments to support struggling students.

In this episode, Ron Berger, a Senior Advisor at EL Education and a champion for educational excellence, discusses his vision for cultivating quality and character in students. He delves into the importance of craftsmanship in education, emphasizing integrity and pride in teaching. Berger shares transformative experiences that bridge traditional assessments with real-life skills, including a project connecting high school students with WWII veterans. He advocates for project-based learning and constructive critique as essential tools for enhancing student motivation and fostering a culture of excellence.

Craig Barton, a renowned mathematics educator and edu-podcaster, joins Ollie Lovell, an experienced teacher and the usual host, to dissect a recent math lesson Ollie taught. They delve into pedagogical decisions and strategies for effective lesson planning, including the use of Google Docs for collaboration. The discussion covers engaging students through dialogue, the significance of mini whiteboards for classroom management, and the importance of peer feedback in teaching practices. It's a deep dive into refining educational techniques and enhancing student engagement.