Learning activities

New research from academics at the University of the Sunshine Coast shows that maths and science educators can use visual cues in nature like animal trails and patterns to explore both simple and complex mathematical concepts with students. 

Last term, the 2024 recipients of the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Excellence in Science Teaching were announced. In this episode, Alice Leung and Daniel Edwards join us to share some of their favourite learning activities to run in the classroom, discuss why STEM is for everyone, and share how they use social media to connect with experts.

Through interactive live performances, curriculum-aligned digital learning resources, and professional development workshops, Musica Viva Australia is committed to making music education accessible, engaging, and impactful for primary school students across the country.

When you’re planning a unit of work for your students, there may be opportunities to include a local trip to support the learning outcomes. Recent research from ACER shows the most popular local learning destinations in Australia and New Zealand for some schools participating in Children’s University, a program designed to engage students aged 5-18 in out-of-school learning enrichment activities.

‘There is growing consensus internationally that creative thinking needs to be cultivated to help learners succeed. Beyond identifying the importance of the skill, however, there is little guidance on how to develop and teach it…’ In today’s article, ACER Senior Research Fellow, Dr Claire Scoular, shares 6 suggestions for teaching creative thinking skills.

The study of classic novels is a staple in many secondary English classrooms across the country. In this reader submission, English and History teacher Alec Santucci shares how he has approached including discussion throughout the learning of the classic novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, with his year 11 students – sharing strategies that have proved effective in his own classroom for enhancing student engagement

‘As schools implement the next iteration of the Australian Curriculum, the concept of historical significance is consistently alluded to within syllabus documentation.’ In this reader submission, English and History teacher, Alec Santucci, defines ‘historical significance’ and shares some practical methods for promoting historical skills in the classroom.

‘I called it student driven acquisition, but it was essentially: let’s go to the bookstore.’ Teacher Librarian Catherine Barnes seized a unique opportunity, taking her Endeavour College students to the bookstore to select some titles for the newly renovated school library. We caught up with her to unpack the impromptu learning experience.

Using books in the classroom is a great way to implement new learning opportunities. Check out this article for some fun ideas for incorporating books into your classroom.

The longstanding Prime Minister’s Prizes for Excellence in Science Teaching recognise one primary and one secondary STEM teacher for their outstanding contribution to the field. The 2023 winners were announced late last year and in this episode, we speak with them both about the work they’ve been recognised for.