Newsletter

Learning and Teaching

SCIENCE OF LEARNING

You may have noticed recent media discussions about the ‘Science of Learning’ and the ‘Science of Reading,’ following announcements by MACS and Victorian Education Minister Ben Carroll. At St John’s Regional College, we embrace these developments, as they align closely with our teaching philosophy and vision.

 

The Science of Learning promotes a holistic, evidence-based approach to education informed by cognitive science.

 

Key elements include:

  • A knowledge and skill-rich curriculum: Critical thinking develops most effectively when built on a robust base of subject-specific knowledge.
  • Clear learning intentions: Students benefit from a clear understanding of learning goals and success criteria.
  • Intentionally planned lessons: Classes are structured to minimise cognitive overload.
  • Regular, effective feedback: Continuous feedback is provided through SEQTA and in-class support.
  • Effective study skills: By understanding how memory works, students can apply memorisation techniques effectively.
  • Gradual release of control: Explicit instruction transitions to increasing student independence over time.

St John’s Regional College is committed to continually improving our curriculum, lesson planning, and feedback strategies. Our staff actively participate in ongoing professional development, including a significant training session held on Thursday, 21 November. We are proud to partner with St Bede’s College and other schools, collaborating with Professor Dylan Wiliam, a renowned expert in educational reform.

 

FURTHER RESOURCES

https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/making-best-practice-common-practice-education-state

https://www.dylanwiliam.org/Dylan_Wiliams_website/Welcome.html

 

PARENTS GUIDE TO VISION FOR INSTRUCTION

Vision-for-Instruction-Parent-Guide.pdf

 

SOCIAL MEDIA – PARENT INFORMATION PROPOSED SOCIAL MEDIA CHANGES

The Australian government has introduced proposed regulations designed to enhance accountability among social media platforms, targeting issues such as online harm, misinformation, and hate speech. The reforms would require platforms to adopt stricter content moderation practices, including more effective identification and removal of harmful material. Additionally, the government aims to hold social media companies responsible for safeguarding children and vulnerable users, with penalties for non-compliance. Authorities may also be granted expanded powers to demand the swift removal of harmful content and access platform data to assist law enforcement when necessary.

 

The proposed changes also address the age of social media users, with a focus on protecting children and young people from online risks. Stricter age verification measures could be mandated to prevent minors from encountering harmful interactions or inappropriate material. Social media companies would be expected to implement comprehensive systems to verify users’ ages before granting access to specific features or content. These regulations aim to reduce risks like cyberbullying, exploitation, and exposure to inappropriate material, creating a safer online space for young Australians.

 

Further info can be found in this ABC News article