Debate erupts over ‘explicit teaching’ in NSW schools
The NSW Department of Education’s decision to prioritise ‘explicit teaching’ during an upcoming staff development day has ignited a heated discussion among education experts.
The approach is characterised by step-by-step instruction and clearly defined learning goals.
While some endorse it as a solution to academic disparities, others caution against oversimplifying teaching methods.
Associate professor Jorge Knijnik from Western Sydney University warns that fixating on this approach may limit teachers’ autonomy and overlook diverse student needs.
Dr Lynde Tan, also of Western Sydney University, acknowledges its potential benefits but cautions against its risks, including rote learning and stifled critical thinking.
Study reveals top concerns for parents
Australian parents and carers have named the key issues affecting the young Australians in their care.
Among the top concerns reported were social media (59%), future prospects (56%), school stress (52%) and mental health (50%).
Issues such as domestic violence, family changes and neurodiversity were also identified. One notable finding was that most young people are significantly affected by loneliness.
Concerningly, most people surveyed felt their support needs weren’t fully met last year. Many turn to friends, other parents (51%), and the internet (43%) for help, with less reliance on medical professionals (38%).
ReachOut Interim CEO Jackie Hallan emphasises the importance of bridging this gap.
‘It’s vital that we let parents and carers know that support is available and easy to access’.
For support, visit ReachOut for parents and caregivers.
New online resource for AI education
A new online resource will assist Australian teachers in educating students about artificial intelligence (AI).
The Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) initiative aims to enhance students’ understanding of AI’s mechanics, ethical use, and societal impact.
The ‘Curriculum Connection’ resource, developed in collaboration with AI experts, aligns with Version 9.0 of the Australian Curriculum. It covers various subjects and year levels, emphasising AI functionality, responsible use, and societal implications.
Part of ACARA’s broader Curriculum Connections project, the AI resource allows educators to tailor lessons to specific year levels and learning objectives.
The ‘Curriculum Connection – Artificial Intelligence’ resource is available on the Australian Curriculum website.
ACARA’s other recently updated Curriculum Connection resources include Outdoor Learning and Food and Fibre. Both are now aligned to Version 9.0 of the Australian Curriculum, providing teachers with frameworks to identify content for integrated learning experiences from Foundation to Year 10, whether in natural environments or understanding food production and environmental impact.
Community-funded pet program helps youth
MacKillop Family Services’ Paw Pals program is changing the lives of vulnerable youth in Victoria. Through the power of animal-assisted education, children facing learning differences and emotional challenges find solace and support in therapy dogs.
Since its inception in 2018, Paw Pals has supported more than 800 children across Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat, offering vital support in classroom settings and residential care homes.
As the program continues to grow, community support is needed. To ensure its sustainability, MacKillop Family Services is launching its annual matched giving day appeal on 30 April, aiming to raise $360,000 with the support of generous matching partners.
Find out more on how to donate here.
More time to say no to bullying
The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence has a new name and will become the Bullying No Way: National Week of Action!
Bullying No Way Week will be held from 12 to 16 August 2024. This gives schools and supporters more flexibility in planning activities that suit their schedule – whether it’s spreading awareness throughout the week or focusing on a single impactful day (or two). Details on how to access the toolkit for 2024 will be provided in June.
Find out more.
Teach young children to be track safe
Preschool and early childhood students will have access to fun and engaging resources to help teach rail safety.
TrackSAFE Foundation is dedicated to teaching children how to stay safe on and around rail.
Through a partnership with Thomas and Friends, preschool and early childhood students will have access to fun and engaging resources to help teach rail safety.
The education kit developed through this partnership contains five short lessons with posters, activity sheets, printable stickers, and other resources.
Find out more.
What’s on
Privacy Awareness Week: 6-12 May. This year’s theme is ‘Privacy and technology: Improving transparency, accountability, and security’. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner offers resources to enhance transparency, accountability, and security. Access resources here.