Harnessing the Science of Learning with Dr Nathaniel Swain
In this episode, Dr Nathaniel Swain talks about:
Today's educational landscape
His classroom experiences and how teachers can leverage the Science of Learning fundamentals for success
How educators can strike the right balance between direct instruction and inquiry-based learning in a way that aligns with cognitive science
What makes feedback effective for learning, and some of the common mistakes teachers make when giving feedback
His new book Harnessing the Science of Learning
His charity Think forward Educators
This is a fascinating listen for both those well-versed in the Science of Learning and those eager to learn more
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1:07:46
Reflections on Catalyst with Ross Fox
In this episode I chat with Ross Fox, director of Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn, about his reflections on Catalyst from the last 4 years. After 8 years with CECG, he is stepping away from the role of Director to explore other opportunities. In our episode today we hear about Ross’ reflections about Catalyst, including its effectiveness, implementation and vision. We hear about:
His greatest achievement in the Catalyst space
Where he would like to see Catalyst in 5 years time
What he hopes for the future of HITP
What's next for him on the horizon
The use of time to be as effective and efficient as possible in schools
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31:29
Implementing, Scaling & Embedding Catalyst with Erin White and Lisa Buckland
In this episode we learn about how the leadership team at St Mary Mackillop Catholic College in Canberra successfully implemented the components of Catalyst and scaled up for a two-campus school with over 2000 students. Erin White and Lisa Buckland share with us their insights about how they started their Catalyst journey and the importance of this work in the Secondary context, discussing what worked well and some of the challenges they faced along the way. We learn about where they prioritised, invested their time, supports and resources and how they keep momentum with over 200 staff. Everything shared has relevance for all school contexts, making this an interesting episode for all.
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1:01:00
English and Mathematics Primary Curriculum with Gillian Forrester and Jaime Kemp
In this episode Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn (CECG) Teaching and Learning Officers, Jamie Kemp and Gillian Forrester, talk about CECG’s Primary Mathematics and English curriculum and how to effective implemented the lessons and use the accompanying resources. They answer some frequently asked questions about the CECG Mathematics and English materials and outline the importance of a low variance, knowledge rich curriculum.
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49:34
Creating a Knowledge Rich Curriculum with Reid Smith
In this episode Reid speaks about curriculum, diving into Ochre Education and their partnership with CECG in developing high quality curriculum resources, prioritising Explicit Instruction and High Impact Teaching Practice. Reid speaks about the importance of a knowledge rich, low variance curriculum and what we should be aspiring to. He also speaks about why Ochre and CECG have designed their lessons using slide decks and how to best teach with them.
Resources mentioned
Hirsch, E. D. (2016). Why knowledge matters: Rescuing our children from failed educational theories. Harvard Education Press.
Ashbee, R. (2021). Curriculum: Theory, culture and the subject specialisms. Sage Publications.
Australian Education Research Organisation. (2024). A knowledge-rich approach to curriculum design. https://www.edresearch.edu.au/research/research-reports/knowledge-rich-approach-curriculum-design
Tune in to hear Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn teachers share their knowledge and change journey with Catalyst, an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning
New Zealand