📌 Introduction

This episode explores key debates in education, questioning commonly held views about knowledge in the curriculum, live theatre’s role in learning, and the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model. Guest panellist, Shane, offers insights from his experience, encouraging educators to rethink established practices and explore new ways to support student learning.

This episode explores three current stories in education:# Let’s cool the hyperbole around knowledge in the curriculum

How live theatre can expand pupils’ view of the world

The flipped classroom model isn’t working

🎓 Let’s Cool the Hyperbole Around KRC

There’s been a growing emphasis on knowledge-rich curricula, but Shane challenges the idea that knowledge alone is the key to educational success.

🔹 Balance is crucial – While foundational knowledge is important, skills, critical thinking, and creativity must not be sidelined.

🔹 Overloaded curriculums – Trying to cram too much information can lead to surface-level learning rather than deep understanding.

🔹 Application matters – Students need opportunities to use knowledge in meaningful contexts rather than just memorising facts.Shane argues that knowledge should not be prioritised at the expense of exploration, discussion, and independent thought. A well-rounded education must go beyond rote learning to develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and curiosity.

🎭 How Live Theatre Can Expand Pupils’ View of the WorldLive theatre offers far more than just entertainment—it can be a powerful educational tool that broadens students’ perspectives.

Shane discusses:

🎟 Theatre as a window into new experiences – Watching live performances exposes students to different cultures, perspectives, and ideas.

🧠 Developing empathy and emotional intelligence – Engaging with characters and narratives can help students understand complex human emotions and social issues.

📚 A richer learning experience – Theatre can bring literature, history, and even science to life, making subjects more relatable and thought-provoking.Despite its benefits, arts education is often undervalued in schools. Shane urges educators to incorporate live theatre experiences into their teaching, whether through school trips, performances in the classroom, or digital theatre access.

🔄 The Flipped Classroom Model Isn’t Working

The flipped classroom—where students learn new content at home and use lesson time for discussion and application—has been promoted as a revolutionary teaching method. However, Shane challenges its effectiveness in real-world classrooms.

⚠ Not all students have equal access to resources – Some may lack technology, internet access, or a quiet space to study, making independent learning difficult.

📉 Low engagement outside the classroom – Many students struggle with self-directed learning, leading to inconsistent preparation for lessons.

🧑‍🏫 The role of the teacher is diminished – Effective teaching involves guidance, questioning, and real-time support, which can be lost if students are expected to learn new content alone.Instead of fully flipping the classroom, Shane suggests a hybrid approach, where teachers carefully balance direct instruction, guided practice, and student-led exploration to ensure all learners are supported.

🎯 Final Thoughts: Rethinking EducationThe episode concludes with a call to action for educators:

🔹 Question educational trends – Just because a method is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for every classroom.

🔹 Prioritise meaningful learning – Focus on depth over memorisation, engagement over rigidity, and creativity over conformity.

🔹 Advocate for a balanced curriculum – Knowledge is important, but so are skills, critical thinking, and real-world experiences. By reflecting on what truly works for students, educators can create classrooms that inspire curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning.

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