Nurturing talent in developing countries with smarter investments

A new economics study suggests more breakthrough science could be achieved by supporting exceptional talent from developing countries.

Hitting the right targets in the final year of school

The final year of high school can be one of the most fraught and stressful times in a young person’s life, but setting specific, achievable aims can help reduce anxiety and improve personal and academic results.

Rediscovering English grammar for a new generation

The structured teaching of English grammar was dropped from the Australian curriculum in the 1960s, but learning the fundamentals not only helps students learn foreign languages, but gives them more confidence when using their own.

Pressing the case for research as a public good

Publicly funded research brings social and economic benefits for all and it’s critical that the global academic community continues to champion this work.

The importance of feeling connected at school

If students feel disconnected from new schools or classes then their learning and even their health can suffer but new research shows how teachers can help.

How to help kids make friends at primary school

Making good friends in primary school is not always easy, but parents and teachers can take some positive steps to help their children make connections.

Does China herald a grim future for technology in schools?

The increasing use of technology to monitor students in schools abroad should give Australian educators pause for thought when contemplating its introduction here.

Higher education in 2018 – Culture wars and money squabbles

The continuing debate about higher education policy in 2018 saw heated arguments between academics, ministers and social commentators about funding, freedom of speech and the role of universities in buttressing – or undermining – western civilisation.

Australia needs better maths education

Australia’s Chief Scientist, Alan Finkel, calls for teaching maths, in sequence, through a structured program, and at the level of a student’s real ability.

Why it is (almost) impossible to teach creativity

Australians are always told to become more creative to compete in a fast changing economy, but creativity, by its very nature, is somewhat irresponsible and may be impossible to teach in a culture of learning outcomes.

How can universities stop ‘contract cheating’?

If we view tertiary education as a commodity rather than an enlightening pursuit, practices such as essay buying will become more common. What can be done to stamp out plagiarism in our universities – or does nobody really care?

What does a great teacher look like?

Teachers with a strong belief in their own ability to ‘get the job done’ have the biggest impact on a student’s learning.