Join us as we explore the art of differentiation in education, revealing how personalised teaching strategies can effectively meet individual student needs and foster inclusivity, transforming classroom dynamics and empowering every student to reach their full potential.

Our guests in this episode - Dr Penny Round and Madaline Curtain dive into the essential teaching strategy of differentiation. They explore how adapting lessons to cater to the unique needs of every student creates a nurturing educational environment.

Together, we explore:

• The role differentiation and why personalised instruction and inclusivity is so important in the classroom.
• Understanding individual student profiles including their learning styles and unique needs forms the foundation for effective teaching strategies.
• Strategies for adapting teaching methods including modifying task complexity, scaffolding and classroom pacing to support diverse learning needs.
• The importance of documenting educational adaptations and collaboratively setting goals with students to track progress.
• The role of ongoing assessment and feedback in improving educational outcomes.
• How building strong, supportive relationships with students and recognising their successes is critical in creating positive and inclusive classroom environments.
• How collaboration and resource sharing with colleagues can enhance the implementation of differentiated strategies and enrich teaching practices.
• Practical examples of how you can seamlessly integrate differentiation into daily lesson planning, ensuring that teacher adjustments are both manageable and effective.

With actionable tips and valuable resources, this episode aims to empower educators to adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of all students, ensuring every individual’s potential is maximised through innovative and personalised educational strategies. Join us today and Let’s Talk Teaching.

Resources:

• Simply Kinder
• Twinkl
• Australian Journal of Teacher Education ‘Differentiated Instruction at Work. Reinforcing the art of classroom observation through the the creation of a checklist for beginning and pre-service teachers’
• ‘Preparing beginning teachers for inclusion: designing and assessing supplementary fieldwork experiences’

Other suggested resources:

• Top teacher
• Mrs learning bee
• Elizabeth Richards and mta for support resources (furniture, sensory etc)
• Diverse Learners Hub (Department of Education)
• High Ability Toolkit - Identifying High Potential
• Universal Design for Learning (Cast)
• PBIS World

Special Guests:

Dr Penny Round
Lecturer in Inclusive and Special Education - Monash University

Madaline Curtin
Learning Specialist and Foundation Teacher - Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School, Cranbourne
 

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit: Monash Education's learn more page.

We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

We kick off our second season of Let’s Talk Teaching by exploring the transformative role of feedback in education. This episode uncovers how technology is revolutionising teacher-student interactions, shifting from traditional methodologies to innovative approaches that enhance learning outcomes.

Join us as we unveil the nuances of educational feedback with our distinguished guests, Michael Hendersen and Dr. Matt Fyfield. Together, they discuss the pivotal role of clear, timely and actionable feedback that resonates with students, highlighting how technological tools like video and audio feedback are instrumental in enriching this process. Specifically, we delve into how the implementation of more dynamic formative assessments - such as Matt’s ‘Lightening Feedback’ model fosters continuous improvement and enhances engagement in the learning process.

Together, we explore:

• The role of feedback as a core part of teaching practice, transitioning from traditional methods to innovative forms including video, audio and imagery.
• The evolution towards learner-centered feedback approaches that enhance student understanding and performance.
• How early, clear and relevant feedback is critical in fostering effective learning.
• Matt’s ‘Lightening Feedback’ model as a dynamic method for providing frequent and concise feedback, reducing teacher workload and enhancing the process.
• Proven strategies and practices that resonate in classroom settings.
• The culture of collaboration and open communication and its role in fostering connections between educators, learners and parents.
• Strategies for teachers to begin implementing effective feedback practices in their education setting.

This conversation is packed with practical suggestions, tips and techniques for teachers who want to start implementing effective feedback strategies into their classrooms. Join us today and Let’s Talk Teaching.

Resources:

• Screenplay (Previously Screencastomatic): Effortlessly record videos and share them instantaneously, bypassing the need for uploads. This feature is particularly beneficial for creating parent communications or providing feedback when your Learning Management System (LMS) lacks this capability.
• School Box: This is the Learning Management System (LMS) adopted by Mazenod. It boasts exceptional feedback functionality, including direct video embedding into documents and electronic markup capabilities. This system is implemented as a school-wide program, not merely for individual use.
• Wheel Decide: This is an electronic spinning wheel designed to randomly select students. Teachers can simply paste a list of students into the provided box, and the wheel generates. It also produces an embed code, allowing for integration into a class page. In my case, it is prominently displayed at the top of my class landing page.
• Exploring Video Feedback: Insights from Michael Henderson and Phillips' Seminal 2012 Study (Video feedback on student assessment: Scarily personal)
• Providing Feedback that moves learning forward - Dylan William (YouTube)

Special Guests:

Professor Michael Hendersen
Professor of Digital Futures - Monash University
Director, Hub for Educational Design and Innovation (HEDI)

Dr. Matt Fyfield
Deputy Principal (Learning and Teaching) - Mazenod College, Mulgrave

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit: Monash Education's learn more page.

We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

Join us for the season finale of Let’s Talk Teaching as we explore the significance of nurturing and embracing one’s teacher identity, and how it can create a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond.

From expressing your own personality in the classroom to your approach to behavior management and your interactions with students – teacher identity is an all-encompassing concept that influences the way teachers plan, assess, and collaborate with both colleagues and students.

Our panel of esteemed guests – Gary Prasad, Andrew Greville, and Dr. Michelle Ludecke – share their personal experiences, insights, and practical strategies for nurturing teacher identity and help us understand why it’s so important in a long career of teaching.

Together, we explore:

• The fluid and evolving nature of teacher identity
• The importance of authenticity and personal compatibility in considering teaching roles
• Teacher identity as a reflection of personality and individual approach, including the use of humor or wit in teaching practice
• Reflecting on teaching practices, learning from your mistakes, and the "Green Pen" approach
• The evolution of teaching styles over time
• The challenge of maintaining continuity in classes or subjects for valuable reflection and improvement
• Developing teacher identity through involvement in extracurricular activities and building relationships with students outside the classroom
• The use of voice memos as a reflection strategy and its impact on the evolution of teacher identity
• Individual contribution to collective teacher identity and its social impact

Special Guests:

• Gary Prasad: Retired Secondary School Teacher
• Andrew Greville: Classroom Maths Teacher - Catholic Secondary School, Mildura, Victoria
• Dr. Michelle Ludecke: Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching & Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education at Monash University

Join us for an insightful discussion on nurturing teacher identity and discovering its profound influence on teaching practice and student outcomes.

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit Monash Education's learn more page.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/embracing-your-identity-for-teaching-success/transcript

Join us as we discuss the importance of building and sustaining partnerships with parents, carers, and community groups to enhance student learning opportunities and outcomes.

Our guests, Professor Ruth Jeanes, Caitriona Dempsey, and Hayden Owens, share their expertise and individual strategies on how they engage and create meaningful relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

Ruth discusses the significance of community within schools and shares her extensive background working with various organisations and groups; while Caitriona offers practical strategies for engaging parents and carers, emphasising the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration; and Hayden shares the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding working in a school with students and parents from non-English speaking backgrounds.

Together, we explore:

• Engaging multi-cultural communities in education
• The importance of community partnerships in supporting students with trauma backgrounds
• The role of pre-service teachers in engaging with their broader community
• Challenges and strategies for building parent and community partnerships in schools
• The importance of community connections in education
• Tips on establishing effective and productive partnerships with community organisations
• Connecting with community resources in education
• The effort and leadership involved in sustaining partnerships and their influence on student outcomes

Join us for an insightful conversation on the power of partnerships and the important role teachers have in building and sustaining these relationships with the aim of enhancing student learning outcomes.

Special Guests:

Professor Ruth Jeanes Head of School, School of Curriculum, Teaching & Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education at Monash University

• Twitter - @RuthJeanes

Caitriona Dempsey Primary Classroom Teacher - Government Primary School, Melbourne, Victoria

Hayden Owens Student Wellbeing Coordinator and Physical Education Teacher - Noble Park English Language School, Noble Park, Victoria E: [email protected]

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit Monash Education's learn more page.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/creating-strong-partnerships-with-parents-carers-and-the-community/transcript

What is it really like teaching in a rural or remote school? In this episode, we discuss the opportunities, benefits, and challenges of working so far away from inner suburbia.

Schools in rural and remote locations are often at the heart of their local area and provide essential support not just for students, but for their families and the wider community as well. But what this means for educators is connection beyond the classroom - where you see students at the local supermarket, and chat to their mum at the hairdressers!

Our guests, Libby Tudball, Blake Cutler, and Adam Zito offer valuable insights into their personal experiences either working in, or providing support for those who have chosen to leave the city and pursue a career in a rural or remote school setting.

Together, we explore:

• Navigating the experience of moving from a metro to rural area
• Benefits of a ‘nested community’ for preservice teachers in rural placements
• Connections with the local community beyond the classroom
• Exploration of the benefits and opportunities of teaching in rural communities
• Teacher shortages in rural areas
• The importance of induction and mentoring in schools
• Learner-centered education and student agency in behaviour management
• Challenges for teachers in managing diversity in rural school culture
• Building support networks and relationships in rural school communities compared with metro areas

Rural schools need great teachers now more than ever, so if you’re considering teaching in a rural or remote school - this episode of Let’s Talk Teaching may help you make up your mind!

Special Guests:

Professor Elizabeth (Libby) Tudball School of Curriculum Teaching and Inclusive Education, Monash University

• LinkedIn - Libby Tudball

Blake Cutler Blake Cutler, PhD Candidate, School of Education, Culture and Society, Faculty of Education, Monash University.

• Twitter - @blakeacutler

Adam Zito, Year 9 Pedagogy Leader, Generalist learning mentor & teacher - St Anne's College, Kialla, Victoria 

Connect with Adam at [email protected]

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit Monash Education's learn more page.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/beyond-the-big-smoke-the-pros-and-cons-of-teaching-in-a-rural-community/transcript

Join us as we jump into the world of digital technologies in the classroom, exploring their impact on education and engagement, and whether they allow students to explore and learn in entirely new ways.

From game-based learning to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching practices, it is hard to choose the right tools for our students and classrooms from the many exciting options available.

To help us navigate the benefits and challenges of ‘digital classrooms’ are tech-savvy educators - Jo Blannin, Catherine Newington and Kaylia Tierney - who discuss some innovative and inspiring ways they are using new technology in their curriculum.

Together, we explore:

• Utilising game-based technology including Minecraft, Blocket and Kahoot in achieving learning outcomes
• The benefits of leveraging technology in the classroom
• Exploring technology-enhanced pedagogy
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) - and the impact it may have on education
• The role of literacy and technology in education
• The benefits and value of technology in the classroom post-COVID
• Reflection of technology and its place in classrooms and education

Whether you're already tech-savvy or just starting to incorporate technology into your classroom, this informative and engaging episode of Let’s Talk Teaching is well worth the listen.

Resource recommendations by guests:

Tech Tools Resource Guide: A comprehensive and organised database of the most frequently used technology tools in schools, that is managed by Jo and created by academics around the country as part of the Australian Technology Educators Network (ATTEN). The database is searchable by curriculum area, digital concept and resource type, with direct links to each resource. Link here

‘7 things you should know’ by Educause has articles about tech that are user-friendly and easy-to-read. Catherine’s favourite articles include 7 Things you should know about Teaching and Learning with Video and 7 Things You Should Know About Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning.

Unity - gaming development platform that Catherine preferences for use in classrooms.

Kaylia’s favourite apps

• Blooket - Alternative to Kahoot
• Make Code - Easy introduction to coding for teachers and students
• Canva - Easy-to-use visual presentation software
• Twinkl - Interactive lesson plans, worksheets, Powerpoints and assessment tools (Subscription required)

Special Guests:

• Dr Jo Blannin: Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the Master of Teaching, Faculty of Education, Monash University. Twitter profile
• Catherine Newington: ICT Educator's Specialist, Australian Computer Society, and Teaching Associate, Faculty of Education at Monash University
• Kaylia Tierney: Secondary School Teacher and Head of Student Engagement and Enhancement, Healesville High School, Healesville, Victoria, and Teaching Associate, Faculty of Education, Monash University

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit Monash Education's learn more page.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/navigating-digital-technologies-in-education/transcript

In this episode, we're diving into the world of coaching and mentoring and discussing how these practices can significantly impact the development of teachers at all stages of their careers. Whether you're a pre-service teacher just starting out, an early career teacher trying to find your footing, or an experienced educator looking to take on a leadership role, coaching and mentoring can help you grow and improve your teaching practice.

Our guests, George Tissera and Sanja Ivetic and Mary-Claire Relihan share their personal experiences with coaching and mentoring and discuss the vulnerability required to accept and work with feedback.

Together, we explore:

• The importance of school culture in supporting effective coaching and mentoring practices
• The approach to holistic mentoring and coaching within schools towards a more dynamic partnership and continuous learning.
• The benefits of coaching to professional development and student outcomes
• Cultivating personal and group reflection and improvement in teaching practice
• Vulnerability, gratitude, and celebration in mentoring and coaching
• Teaching and mentorship for professional development and personal evolution

This conversation is packed with informative strategies and valuable insights. Tune in today to Let’s Talk Teaching.

Resources:

Special Guests:

• George Tissera - Secondary School Teacher - Bentleigh Secondary College, Bentleigh East, Victoria
• Sanja Ivetic - Primary School Teacher - Rivergum Primary School, Hampton Park, Victoria
• Mary-Claire Relihan - Former teacher, PhD candidate and mentoring and coaching consultant at Monash University

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit Monash Education's learn more page.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/transforming-your-teaching-journey-through-coaching-and-mentoring/transcript

Welcome to the first season of Let's Talk Teaching!

In this episode, we explore effective strategies for creating positive and supportive classroom environments that foster connections, while improving learning outcomes for students.

Our guests and experienced educators, Dr. Maria Gindidis, Schy Prewett, and Callum Mackay share their insights, personal experiences, and successful strategies in managing student behaviour, and establishing respectful and engaging learning environments.

Together, we explore: 

• Self-regulation and mindfulness in education.
• Sustainable practices for managing student behaviour in the classroom including restorative practices, establishing routines and structure and visible learning strategies.
• The importance of having flexibility in your teaching approach.
• Individual strategies and classroom activities to connect with and build relationships with students.
• The power of asking questions in education, including class discussions.
• Strategies for effective teaching.

Don’t miss this conversation packed with personal tips and techniques from our experienced educators on how they manage student behaviours and create supportive classroom environments. Join us today and Let’s Talk Teaching.

Special Guests:

Dr Maria Gindidis - Senior Lecturer and Course Leader, Bachelor of Education (Honours) Faculty of Education, Monash University. 

Schy Prewett - Assistant Principal - Bentleigh Secondary College, Bentleigh East, Victoria. Check out her LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and the school website.

Callum Mackay - Leading Teacher - Brentwood Secondary College, Glen Waverley, Victoria. 

If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast 

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit the Monash Education website.

Access this episode's transcript here: https://lets-talk-teaching.simplecast.com/episodes/building-better-behaviour-through-effective-classroom-management/transcript

Let's Talk Teaching is a podcast created by teachers for teachers, hosted by Associate Professor Rebecca Cooper. Director of Initial Teacher Education at Monash University’s Faculty of Education. Join Dr. Cooper and her guests as they discuss a range of practical topics, including:

• Coaching and mentoring
• Supporting Student Behaviour (Classroom & Behaviour Management)
• Digital Technologies in the Classroom
• Teaching in Rural/Remote Schools
• Working with parents, carers and communities
• Teacher Identity

Gain valuable insights from experts in Australian classrooms and take their perspectives and strategies back to your own classroom.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review, and follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and tell us what you think of the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast

If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit: monash.edu/education/learnmore