Teaching and Learning

Fostering collaboration in the classroom: drawing inspiration from the Matildas

It is very difficult not to have been swept up in the excitement of the Matilda’s journey in the World Cup. They exemplify the idea that success is a collective effort. Just as players on the field work together to achieve their goals, students and teachers collaborating in the classroom, create a learning environment that fosters deeper learning. Students, like the Matildas, need to work together actively, responsibly and productively with their fellow students and teachers to develop a shared knowledge and understanding of the key content and skills taught.   

"Collaboration" is one of the learner attributes that was recently introduced on our semester reports. It was chosen as it is a characteristic that our community agreed was important for our students to develop to help them face the constantly changing world and ensure that in the future, they have the skills to work together with others in their jobs and the community. In the classroom, collaboration can be evidenced in many ways, such as: 

• Students working as a group, not just in a group  
• Actively participating in class discussions to collectively find solutions  
• Fulfilment of role within group work 
• Involvement in pair and share activities 
• Ability to identify and distinguish diverse perspectives through group interactions 
• Ability to negotiate and work towards a common goal 

The Matildas' success during the World Cup is partly due to their exceptional ability to collaborate on and off the soccer pitch. Just like the Matildas, when our students develop their skills of collaboration they are equipped with not only academic skills, but also the essential life skills required for success in an interconnected world.  

Karen Whelan

Deputy Principal - Staff, Teaching and Learning/Psychology