Knowledge for Teachers

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Carl Hendrick, a leading voice in education and co-author of What Does It Look Like in the Classroom?, How Learning Happens, and How Teaching Happens. Carl has been instrumental in helping teachers bridge the gap between research and practice, addressing the key question: That all sounds great, but what does it mean for me? Together, they explore five essential things every teacher should do This episode is packed with actionable insights to support and enhance teaching practice. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Dr. Carl Hendrick: Twitter/X: @C_Hendrick Linkedin Websites: https://carlhendrick.substack.com/ and https://carlhendrick.com/ You can connect with Brendan: Twitter/X: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, we're focusing on a key element of successful schools: understanding and supporting positive student behaviour. Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Brandi Simonsen, a professor of special education at the University of Connecticut and co-director of the National Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Brandi shares her practical insights into PBIS, exploring the crucial links between behaviour, attendance, and academic success. We delve into the ABCs of behavior and uncover effective, evidence-based strategies for creating positive classroom environments, from setting clear expectations to the power of specific praise. Whether you're new to teaching or looking to enhance your practice, this episode offers valuable knowledge and actionable takeaways on implementing Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Brandi: Linkedin You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, get ready to dive deep into the world of assessments with Dr. Matthew Burns, as we explore the different categories of assessments, their intended purposes, and how they can be used to inform instruction. Dr. Burns, a researcher with extensive experience in the effective use of assessment data and interventions, shares his expertise on bridging the gap in understanding assessments. The conversation highlights the significance of the instructional hierarchy in understanding student learning phases, as well as the differences between curriculum-based measurements (CBM) and curriculum-based assessments (CBA). Dr. Burns stresses the necessity of aligning data with educational goals and ensuring teachers are equipped with appropriate frameworks to use assessments effectively. He offers practical advice on reducing unnecessary screening, using data to drive instructional decisions, and implementing effective interventions in reading and maths. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Matthew: Twitter: @burnsmk1 Email: burnsm1@coe.ufl.edu Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0ad1ei6p_HOHHhc-T-JnZg You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode of Knowledge for Teachers, Brendan Lee speaks with Liana McCurry, a passionate advocate for primary school maths education. Fresh from her Churchill Fellowship, Liana shares findings from her research into mathematical practices across six countries. Listeners will gain insights into the systemic issues contributing to Australia's declining maths performance and discover how to bridge the research-to-practice gap. Liana delves into key topics, including: Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that equips educators with practical knowledge and strategies to transform maths education in their classrooms. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Liana: Linkedin Email: liana@sol-education.net Website: sol-education.net You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast A Systematic and Structured Approach to Teaching Primary Mathematics - 10 hr Online (Live) Course While there’s been strong momentum for the science of reading, what about maths? In this course, I will explore what the research reveals about effective maths instruction, highlighting the importance of aligning teaching with how learning happens. Across these sessions, I will go beyond summarising research and delve into practical implications, showing teachers how to bring these concepts to life in the classroom. Highly interactive, the sessions will offer plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage, practice, and respond. REGISTER HERE

This episode features a compelling conversation with Murat Dizdar, the head of the New South Wales Department of Education. Murat shares his inspiring journey from being the son of Turkish immigrants to leading Australia’s largest education system. He discusses the experiences that shaped his vision for public education, his deep passion for the teaching profession, and the key initiatives he’s championing to drive meaningful change. This episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone interested in education and leadership. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Murat: Twitter/X: @dizdarm You can connect with Brendan: Twitter/X: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast A Systematic and Structured Approach to Teaching Primary Mathematics - 10 hr Online (Live) Course While there’s been strong momentum for the science of reading, what about maths? In this course, I will explore what the research reveals about effective maths instruction, highlighting the importance of aligning teaching with how learning happens. Across these sessions, I will go beyond summarising research and delve into practical implications, showing teachers how to bring these concepts to life in the classroom. Highly interactive, the sessions will offer plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage, practice, and respond. More info https://www.learnwithlee.net/a-systematic-and-structured-approach-to-teaching-primary-mathematics/ 10% off Discount code: MATESRATES

In this episode of the Knowledge for Teachers podcast, Nick Hart takes us on an inspiring journey from his beginnings in sports science to becoming a school leader in Dubai. A respected voice in educational leadership, Nick shares insights from his blog and books, delving into the evolution of his leadership style. He discusses the critical role of context in decision-making, introduces the concept of the school year’s rhythm for structured improvement and highlights the importance of trust in fostering strong school communities. Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking ideas on navigating the complexities of educational leadership. Resources mentioned: Leadership handbook 5.0School improvement: Rhythm of the yearCulture setting | More than wordsA model for school improvementThe persistent problems of school leadership You can connect with Nick: Twitter: @MrNickHart Linkedin Website: mrnickhart.wordpress.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Linkedin: @brendan-lee-kft Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast A Systematic and Structured Approach to Teaching Primary Mathematics - 10 hr Online (Live) Course While there’s been strong momentum for the science of reading, what about maths? In this course, I will explore what the research reveals about effective maths instruction, highlighting the importance of aligning teaching with how learning happens. Across these sessions, I will go beyond summarising research and delve into practical implications, showing teachers how to bring these concepts to life in the classroom. Highly interactive, the sessions will offer plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage, practice, and respond. More info https://www.learnwithlee.net/a-systematic-and-structured-approach-to-teaching-primary-mathematics/ 10% off Discount code: MATESRATES

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Zach Groshell for the third of their trilogy of conversations together. In their first episode, they unpacked the nuances of teaching effectively. In the second one, they spoke about coaching, culture and change. In today’s podcast, you will hear them discuss the complex world of school leadership! They explore the key elements that contribute to a positive and productive school culture. From going beyond superficial evaluation methods to building a diverse team that leverages everyone's strengths, they cover a range of important topics that will help school leaders create a thriving learning environment for both students and teachers. Zach’s four points were: Brendan’s 4 points were: Resources mentioned: Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching You can connect with Zach: Twitter: @mrzachg Podcast: Progressively Incorrect Website: educationrickshaw.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast A Systematic and Structured Approach to Teaching Primary Mathematics - 10 hr Online (Live) Course While there’s been strong momentum for the science of reading, what about maths? In this course, I will explore what the research reveals about effective maths instruction, highlighting the importance of aligning teaching with how learning happens. Across these sessions, I will go beyond summarising research and delve into practical implications, showing teachers how to bring these concepts to life in the classroom. Highly interactive, the sessions will offer plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage, practice, and respond. More info https://www.learnwithlee.net/a-systematic-and-structured-approach-to-teaching-primary-mathematics/ 10% off Discount code: MATESRATES

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Leslie Laud. She is the founding Director of ThinkSRSD, a writing program built upon Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD). The discussion covers ThinkSRSD's key strategies, including mnemonics and how to apply them across different grade levels and writing genres. Furthermore, Dr. Laud addresses implementation challenges and provides advice for teachers, emphasising a gradual release of responsibility, the significance of teacher collaboration and the need for professional development that respects teachers' unique contexts. Resources mentioned: think SRSD "Self-Regulated Strategy Development": Releasing WritersThinkSRSD New Zealand and Australia ThinkSRSD A Secondary Analysis Cohort Investigation You can connect with Leslie: Twitter: @LeslieLaud Bluesky: @leslielaud.bsky.social Linkedin You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Bluesky: @learnwithmrlee.bsky.social Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast Register for my upcoming course: A Systematic and Structured Approach to Teaching Primary Mathematics Use the code: MATESRATES for a 10% discount.

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Nathaniel Swain. He returns for the third time and this time it’s to unpack his new book Harnessing the Science of Learning. However, as you will hear, they actually go beyond the book and dig into some of the critical considerations that schools and teachers need to be making. They explore how to make teaching and learning the top priority in your school, reclaiming valuable instructional time often lost to distractions. They also unpack the essential elements of effective literacy and numeracy instruction, going beyond the surface level to understand the importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum, explicit teaching techniques, and structured implementation processes. They look at why teaching should be “Fun in the service of learning, not in spite of Learning” and some of the common barriers that school leaders face when initiating change. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Nathaniel: Twitter: @NathanielRSwain Facebook Linkedin Order Nathaniel's book, "Harnessing the Science of Learning" Website: www.nathanielswain.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

This is the second conversation between Dr. Zach Groshell and Brendan Lee. For those that don’t know, Zach is the host of the Progressively Incorrect Podcast and also the author of Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching. In this episode, they take a deep dive into some of the key considerations that schools need to take when it comes to instructional coaching. For this episode, Zach’s four items were: Brendan’s four points were: Resources mentioned: You can connect with Zach: Twitter: @mrzachg Podcast: Progressively Incorrect Website: educationrickshaw.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Implementing the Science of Learning - For School Leaders 10% off Discount code: MATESRATES Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Professor Nancy Jordan. She has been at the forefront of all things to do with early numeracy research including looking at screeners and intervention. Many of you come from the science of reading world and are fans of Scarborough’s Reading Rope, Nancy and colleagues have put together a Number Sense one! I’ve popped the citation in the show notes. Throughout this conversation she delves into what number sense is, why it’s important, how we can develop it and how to assess it. Nancy also covers the role of manipulatives and the transition to understanding fractions. Resources mentioned: SENS: Screener for Early Number SenseNumber Sense InterventionsCore foundations of early mathematics: refining the number sense frameworkBig Math for Little Kids You can connect with Nancy: Twitter: @Dr_nancyjordan Email: njordan@udel.edu Website: https://sites.google.com/a/udel.edu/nancy-jordan/ You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Rhonda Filmer, a gifted education consultant and teacher, she discusses her journey into the field and the importance of understanding neurodiversity and twice exceptional students. She has recently released a book, “Neurodiversity and the Twice-Exceptional Student” and they delve into some of the key points from the book throughout the episode. Resources mentioned: Center on the Developing Child You can connect with Rhonda: Linkedin Book: Neurodiversity and the Twice-Exceptional Student You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode of the Knowledge for Teachers podcast, Brendan Lee and Dr. Zach Groshell (Host of the Progressively Incorrect podcast) collaborated in the first of a series of episodes together. The theme for this episode was around what are the main principles that teachers need to understand about how learning happens and what are the key mechanisms of effective instruction. Zach’s 4 points were: Brendan’s 4 points were: Resources mentioned: You can connect with Zach: Twitter: @mrzachg Podcast: Progressively Incorrect Website: educationrickshaw.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast * This was originally published on 15 Sep 2024 with poor sound quality, it was re-published on 20 Sep 2024 with improved sound quality! Hope you enjoy the episode!

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Charlotte Peverett, an experienced learning specialist and inclusion outreach coach, who shares her journey into teaching and special education. Charlotte discusses the significance of structures and routines in creating a safe and consistent learning environment. Charlotte also emphasises the importance of high expectations for all students and the role of teachers in preparing them for adulthood and functioning in society. In this conversation, Charlotte and Brendan discuss the importance of positive reinforcement and effective implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in schools. They also speak the role of leadership in planning and using data to drive improvement. Resources mentioned: SOLAR Lab episode 5episode 17 You can connect with Charlotte: Twitter: @lifeoflottie Facebook: Science of Learning - Special Education Australia You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast About Charlotte Peverett Charlotte is an autistic, special education Learning Specialist/Inclusion Outreach Coach in South-West Victoria. Her specialty is literacy and language intervention with a passion to introduce research and evidence-based practices into mainstream and specialist settings. Charlotte has her Master of Education (LIHI) and is a postgraduate research student with the Latrobe University SOLAR Lab and is an Honorary Affiliate member of the Institute of Special Education (InSpEd). Charlotte has presented at numerous conferences and works with schools to change systems and practices to ensure all students are reaching their full potential.

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Professor Jonathan Sharples from the Education Endowment Foundation. He has led the recent update to the EEF’s A School’s Guide to Implementation and in this conversation we unpack the paper. Professor Sharples details the updates and why they were made. He also digs into each of the key elements. As Jonathan highlights, how something is done is as important as what is done and throughout this episode, he provides a number of practical strategies that schools can follow. Resources mentioned: https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/education-evidence/guidance-reports/implementation You can connect with Jonathan: Twitter: @Sharples_J Website: educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Bethany Rittle-Johnson, a professor of psychology at Vanderbilt University. Bethany has led a lot of the research around conceptual and procedural knowledge. In this chat, she delves into this topic and also discuss other high impact strategies such as worked examples, self-explanations and the power of comparisons in supporting student learning. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Bethany: Twitter: @BethanyRittle Linkedin Email: bethany.rittle-johnson@vanderbilt.edu You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast WEBSITE BLURB About My broad interests concern how people learn and how to improve their learning. My research focuses on learning of key concepts and problem-solving procedures within mathematics, with an emphasis on experiences that promote learning. I conduct this research in both laboratory and classroom contexts to better understand learning processes and contribute to improvements in math education.

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Professor Pamela Snow. She has been at the coalface fighting for evidence-based reading instruction to be common practice for a number of years and throughout this conversation, she provides nuggets of gold in describing how when we talk about phonics we need to be using it as an adjective with a noun following it. Pamela unpacks why this debate about reading has been going on for so long and why changing teacher practice can be so challenging. She also delves into what parents need to know and what questions they could be asking. Resources mentioned: The Reading Guarantee You can connect with Pam: Twitter: @PamelaSnow2 Linkedin Website: https://pamelasnow.blogspot.com/ You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Jamie Clark, an English teacher and lead practitioner specialising in pedagogy and digital learning. They discuss his recently released book, One Pagers and unpack how it could be used. Jamie breaks down a number of the techniques mentioned in the book and describes his thinking process in putting it all together. He also provides some super useful tips on how teachers can design their own. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Jamie: Twitter: @XpatEducator Instagram: @xpateducator Linkedin: @jamieleeclark85 Website: www.jamieleeclark.com/ You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Emina McLean. Emina works with systems, schools, leaders, and teachers to develop ambitious and rigorous assessment, curriculum and instruction practices in English and literacy. In this chat, Emina discusses her focus on implementing effective systems and practices for teaching reading and writing. She highlights the importance of aligning curriculum, assessment, and instruction, and the need for a well-sequenced and comprehensive curriculum. Emina also unpacks the challenges of implementing evidence-based practice in schools, including the overwhelming number of competing priorities. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Emina: Twitter: @EminaMcLean Linkedin Email: emina.mclean@gmail.com Website: www.eminamclean.com/ You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Bronwyn Ryrie Jones, an instructional coach who supports teachers and instructional leaders to develop their expertise. She discusses the importance of responsive teaching and shares techniques to effectively check for understanding in the classroom. She emphasises the need for teachers to have a deep understanding of the principles behind responsive teaching before implementing specific techniques. Bron also explains the concept of instructional playbooks and how they can be useful for schools. She unpacks the potential dangers and how to avoid these pitfalls. Resources mentioned: You can connect with Bronwyn: Twitter: @BronRyrieJones Linkedin: @bronwyn-ryrie-jones/ Website: bronwynryriejones.com You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast