Category Archives: reflections

Hattie’s comments on the effect of feedback on student learning

  A few of Hattie’s comments on feedback that he made at a recent seminar struck a discord with me: Feedback is much more about what students receive than teachers give. When feedback is given to the whole class its received … Continue reading

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Memorable quote for leaders!

  “The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out … Continue reading

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two girls one dream

It’s easy sometimes to get lulled into thinking about oneself and the sometimes small things that occupy our attention or stress. As I prepare for school tomorrow this clip serves as powerful reminder to all us, particularly those in Western … Continue reading

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Yong Zhao speaks about the limitations of test scores to define good schools

Yong Zhao a University Distinguished Professor at the College of Education at Michigan State University and international consultant to many governments talks here about the dangers of the narrow use of national test scores to define what students need. I … Continue reading

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Carl Sagan’s message not lost

Sometimes its useful to get a reality check on what’s important. Have a look at this clip – I think its useful to start conversations with teachers and senior students.

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Teach to the test – what’s next?

Well, as reported in the Age Newspaper, it didn’t take long for some directive to teachers to teach to the Naplan test. We all know you get some short term gain for 1 year and as the article points out … Continue reading

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Student empowerment vs engagement

I’ve been following a conversation started by Chris Lehmann and joined by Dave Sherman questioning whether student engagement is a worthwhile improvement goal for schools to set. The conversation is worth some thought as Victorian schools like Elsternwick Primary are … Continue reading

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Reflections on a year just finished – what changed and what’s ahead.

Photo courtesy of Bayside leader At the end of a school year I generally get a little reflective – after a day or two on holidays that is and after I’ve spent some time catching up on the uncompleted tasks … Continue reading

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