Let’s Talk Teaching

For many teachers, games have long been a classroom staple - but their impact goes far beyond surface-level engagement. When designed and used with intent, game-based learning can transform mathematical thinking, improve classroom dynamics, and create lasting connections to content.

In this episode, Dr James Russo shares what makes a truly effective maths game, unpacking six key principles from his research and the importance of 'games into investigations'. Primary school teacher Matt Hale brings the classroom perspective, highlighting the joy, depth and unexpected power of games that promote strategic thinking, collaborative dialogue and differentiated learning.

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While concerns about AI replacing teachers persist, the reality is far more complex—and filled with opportunity. This technology shift calls for a reimagining of the teacher’s role, where professional judgement, leadership and curiosity take centre stage.

In this episode, Dr Jo Blannin unpacks what generative AI actually is, why it’s more than just a tech tool, and how teachers can lead its meaningful and ethical use in schools. Secondary School teacher Miguel Regalo shares how he and his colleagues are using AI on the ground - from supporting lesson planning and differentiation, to parent commun...

With teacher shortages and shifting school demands, many early-career teachers are stepping into leadership roles within their first few years in the profession. However, with limited preparation and support, some find themselves burning out - or leaving teaching altogether. 

In this episode, teacher James Desmond reflects on his own fast-tracked journey into leadership, how it affected his relationship with his work - and what helped him rediscover the joy of teaching again. Dr Fiona Longmuir brings a research perspective, sharing insights on why so many teachers are leaving mid-career, the systemic changes schools need to consider, and h...

Behind the disrespect and undermining attitudes lies a broader cultural shift, fuelled by misogynistic messaging - both inside and outside of school walls. This growing pattern of behaviour isn’t just challenging - it’s incredibly concerning, and it’s not just limited to the classroom. 

In this episode, teacher Simone Nguyen shares her firsthand experiences with male students in the classroom, from physical intimidation to daily microaggressions. Researcher Dr Stephanie Wescott breaks down how harmful narratives around masculinity are shaping student behaviour - and what needs to shift at every level, from classroom practices to school-wide culture...

In this episode, we delve into the critical role of creativity and critical thinking within the educational sphere, exploring how these fundamental skills are pivotal across all subjects, especially in science. Our guests highlight the dynamic ways these skills can be integrated into daily teaching practices to enhance student learning and engagement, particularly through problem-solving.

Join Dr. Jen Mansfield and Mel Gatt for a vibrant exploration of creativity and critical thinking in shaping today’s educational landscape. Together, they unravel the complexity of these essential skills, offering rich insights into how they can transform classroom dynamics and em...

In this episode, we explore the evolving world of literacy education, where technological innovations are revolutionising traditional teaching and learning methods.

Our guests Dr. Kylie Bradfield and Claudia Shute, explore the critical role of literacy across all curriculum areas, emphasising how incorporating students’ home languages can enrich literacy education by enhancing comprehension and inclusivity. They also discuss the transformative impact of children’s books, highlighting its power to offer students mirrors and windows - reflecting their own experiences, whilst exposing them to new perspectives at the same time.

Together, we explore:

Join us as we explore how fostering student mental health and wellbeing impacts their academic success. From the importance of creating trusting relationships to the impact of COVID-19 - learn how to create strategies that support both students and teachers to create a nurturing and cohesive educational environment.

In this episode, Dr. Stella Laletas and Dr. Chloe De Rosbo-Davies discuss the critical role of mental health in shaping educational experiences. As experts in psychology and education, they offer invaluable insights into the complex relationship between a student's sense of wellbeing and learning capacity.

Drawing from...

This episode takes a closer look at how creating supportive learning environments through trauma-informed practices and restorative justice can fundamentally transform the classroom landscape. It emphasises the importance of recognising student’s backgrounds to nurture and heal relationships, thereby enhancing learning outcomes.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Kristin Reimer and Peter Langham share their extensive experiences in creating supportive and transformative learning environments within complex school communities. They outline the essential elements for fostering nurturing educational spaces that effectively support students’ emotional and educational growth. Together they also discuss the use of trauma-informed care and its integration into...

Join us as we explore the art of differentiation in education, revealing how personalised teaching strategies can effectively meet individual student needs and foster inclusivity, transforming classroom dynamics and empowering every student to reach their full potential.

Our guests in this episode - Dr Penny Round and Madaline Curtain dive into the essential teaching strategy of differentiation. They explore how adapting lessons to cater to the unique needs of every student creates a nurturing educational environment.

Together, we explore:

We kick off our second season of Let’s Talk Teaching by exploring the transformative role of feedback in education. This episode uncovers how technology is revolutionising teacher-student interactions, shifting from traditional methodologies to innovative approaches that enhance learning outcomes.

Join us as we unveil the nuances of educational feedback with our distinguished guests, Michael Hendersen and Dr. Matt Fyfield. Together, they discuss the pivotal role of clear, timely and actionable feedback that resonates with students, highlighting how technological tools like video and audio feedback are instrumental in enriching this process. Specifically, we delve into how the im...

Join us for the season finale of Let’s Talk Teaching as we explore the significance of nurturing and embracing one’s teacher identity, and how it can create a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond.

From expressing your own personality in the classroom to your approach to behavior management and your interactions with students – teacher identity is an all-encompassing concept that influences the way teachers plan, assess, and collaborate with both colleagues and students.

Our panel of esteemed guests – Gary Prasad, Andrew Greville, and Dr. Michelle Ludecke – share their personal experiences, insights, and practical...

Join us as we discuss the importance of building and sustaining partnerships with parents, carers, and community groups to enhance student learning opportunities and outcomes.

Our guests, Professor Ruth Jeanes, Caitriona Dempsey, and Hayden Owens, share their expertise and individual strategies on how they engage and create meaningful relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

Ruth discusses the significance of community within schools and shares her extensive background working with various organisations and groups; while Caitriona offers practical strategies for engaging parents and carers, emphasising the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration; and Hayden shares...

What is it really like teaching in a rural or remote school? In this episode, we discuss the opportunities, benefits, and challenges of working so far away from inner suburbia.

Schools in rural and remote locations are often at the heart of their local area and provide essential support not just for students, but for their families and the wider community as well. But what this means for educators is connection beyond the classroom - where you see students at the local supermarket, and chat to their mum at the hairdressers!

Our guests, Libby Tudball...

Join us as we jump into the world of digital technologies in the classroom, exploring their impact on education and engagement, and whether they allow students to explore and learn in entirely new ways.

From game-based learning to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching practices, it is hard to choose the right tools for our students and classrooms from the many exciting options available.

To help us navigate the benefits and challenges of ‘digital classrooms’ are tech-savvy educators - Jo Blannin, Catherine Newington and Kaylia Tierney - who discuss some innovative and inspiring ways...

In this episode, we're diving into the world of coaching and mentoring and discussing how these practices can significantly impact the development of teachers at all stages of their careers. Whether you're a pre-service teacher just starting out, an early career teacher trying to find your footing, or an experienced educator looking to take on a leadership role, coaching and mentoring can help you grow and improve your teaching practice.

Our guests, George Tissera and Sanja Ivetic and Mary-Claire Relihan share their personal experiences with coaching and mentoring and discuss the vulnerability required to accept and work...

Welcome to the first season of Let's Talk Teaching!

In this episode, we explore effective strategies for creating positive and supportive classroom environments that foster connections, while improving learning outcomes for students.

Our guests and experienced educators, Dr. Maria Gindidis, Schy Prewett, and Callum Mackay share their insights, personal experiences, and successful strategies in managing student behaviour, and establishing respectful and engaging learning environments.

Together, we explore: 

Let's Talk Teaching is a podcast created by teachers for teachers, hosted by Associate Professor Rebecca Cooper. Director of Initial Teacher Education at Monash University’s Faculty of Education. Join Dr. Cooper and her guests as they discuss a range of practical topics, including:

Gain valuable insights from experts in Australian classrooms and take their perspectives and strategies back to your own classroom.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review, and foll...