Long reads

‘We all feel the pressure of keeping up with the latest technology innovations. This is especially true in schools where we are preparing young people for the future.’ In part 2 of his 3-part series on technology in education, Dr Ralph Saubern questions how schools and teachers can choose the right EdTech in the first place.

The rapid adoption of digital technologies in schools has dramatically changed the way schools and classrooms look, teachers work and students learn. In part 1 of this 3-part series on technology in education, Dr Ralph Saubern discusses whether these digital innovations have led to improvements in student learning, and explores how a professional learning community aligned teaching practice with available technology to improve students’ text analysis skills.

In learning about science at school, students frequently apply their knowledge and skills to tasks that require multiple steps – such as solving a problem, forming an argument, or undertaking an analysis. Michael Rosenbrock explains that scaffolding can be a valuable way to support students to develop and extend their knowledge and skills. One way to do this is by using worked examples. 

Research shows that outstanding teachers and school leaders regularly share their skills, knowledge, expertise and best practice with others, both within and across schools and learning networks. Every week Templestowe Heights Primary School in Victoria opens its doors to educators from other schools to share their leadership expertise and to watch their classrooms in action.

Effective feedback drives improvements in teaching and learning. What happens to the feedback that you give students? In our latest reader submission Andreas Katsanos – Berwick Campus Head of Commerce at Beaconhill College in Melbourne, Victoria – shares how he’s been improving his own practice in this area by implementing a 3-stage feedback loop.

In today’s article, Rachael Lehr, Associate Principal at Dayton Primary School in Western Australia shares her advice on how to set the tone for a new school term to get the best out of your students and staff. From creating positive relationships, to setting high expectations and revisiting routines, Rachael shares what has worked in her school setting.

Tax time is quickly approaching here in Australia, and your return can vary greatly depending on your occupation. In this Q&A, Director of Tax Communications at H&R Block, Mark Chapman, shares his tips specifically for teachers in 2025. 

‘Our recent and ongoing partnership … has been a really fulfilling journey.’ In this Q&A, Renee Ladner from the Mathematical Association of Victoria (MAV) discusses educators engaging with associations for professional development, and 2 examples of how she’s partnered with schools on maths PD. 

'In embracing EdChat, we chose responsiveness over rigidity, learning over waiting, and trust over control.’ In his latest column, Professor Martin Westwell – Chief Executive of the South Australian Department for Education – shares the thinking behind a generative AI chatbot that has been custom-built for teaching and learning, and its initial impact.

In the latest Teacher reader survey, you let us know you’d like more content on the topic of curriculum implementation. At the ACER Research Conference 2025, poster presenter Dr Liana Luyt showcased her research into effective incorporation of the General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum. Here, she shares the details and an implementation guideline resource for school leaders.