Let’s Talk Teaching

• Game Plan: Transforming Maths Teaching through Strategic Play

  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.You’ll also hear how games like Fact or Fiction, Multiple Mysteries, and Choc Chip Cookies are sparking genuine mathematical thinking - and why the simplicity of cards, dice and paper often wins over digital solutions.In this episode, you’ll learn:The difference between gamification and game-based learning - and why it matters.What the six principles of effective maths games are and how to apply them.How game mechanics support strategic thinking, reflection and investigation.Why low-tech games often outperform digital tools in learning and engagement. The role of games in assessment, student agency and classroom culture. Topics we explore:(00:00) Introduction to Game-Based Learning (02:00) Game-Based Learning vs Gamification(03:27) Games That Built Deeper Thinking(04:33) Stickiness and Replayability (05:51) Favourite Maths Games(09:47) Six Principles of Effective Maths Games(11:04) Turning Games into Investigations(13:02) Deepening Learning by Changing Rules(15:03) Games for Assessment (17:12) Sneaky Learning and Student Confidence(18:05) Managing Competition in the Classroom(19:47) Six Key Principles Explained(26:40) Love Maths Website and Simple Games(27:52) Non-Digital vs. Digital Games(31:38) New International Research into Games(33:36) How to Start Using Games in TeachingResources: Love Maths by Michael MinasFree, simple maths games for use at both home and at school.SURF MathsA flexible, visual framework to support mental maths instruction. SURF helps teachers personalise strategy use, build consistency across classrooms, and strengthen students' mathematical thinking and language. Maths 300Subscription-based maths lesson library, supporting inquiry through rich tasks and games.Wheel of NamesA free random selector tool that was designed for choosing winners or names.Related research:Unpacking game mechanics: Five types of whole-class mathematical gamesTransforming mathematical games into investigationsFive principles of educationally rich mathematical gamesSpecial Guests: Dr James RussoSenior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive EducationFaculty of Education, Monash UniversityMatt HaleTeacherSt Patrick’s Primary School, MentoneIf you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast. If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website.We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

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• Teaching in the Age of AI: How Educators Can Lead the Change

  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 communication and professional reflection. You’ll also hear how AI tools like ATLAS are being used in initial teacher education, and why the challenge ahead isn’t about keeping up with the technology - but shifting the mindset around how it’s used in, and out of, the classroom. In this episode, you’ll learn:What generative AI actually is - and how it works in simple terms.How teachers and students are already using AI in practical ways. The ethical concerns around privacy, bias and student data.  How AI is shaping assessment, learning design and workload. Where to start if you’re AI curious but not sure where to begin.Topics we explore:(00:00) Introduction to Generative AI(01:57) Big Questions about AI(02:52) What is Generative AI? (06:20) Using AI in the Classroom(07:36) Ethics, Privacy and Data Safety(12:18) How Teachers Are Using AI (15:16) Understanding and Adopting AI(18:02) Effective Leadership in School Change(19:00) How Students Are Using AI(19:49) Rethinking Assessment with AI(26:08) Atlas Project: Real-World Teaching Practice(29:41) Where to Start if You’re AI CuriousResources: ATLAS (Automated Teaching and Learning at Scale)An AI-powered simulation tool used for professional development, including roleplays for parent-teacher interviews, mentoring conversations and behaviour support.Monash University - AI Short CourseExplore Artificial Intelligence courses and delve into the dynamic realm of possibilities. Supporting Teachers and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence - Research Project (Jo Blannin)This project aims to investigate teacher capabilities to respond to, and engage with, Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in their classrooms and online teaching.Special Guests: Associate Professor Jo BlanninSenior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive EducationFaculty of Education, Monash UniversityConnect with Jo on LinkedInMiguel RegaloProfessional Growth & eLearning LeaderMac.Robertson Girls’ High SchoolConnect with Miguel on LinkedInIf you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast. If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website.We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

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• Staying the Course: Career Progression and Leadership in Teaching

  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 how we can better support meaningful, lasting progression in education. This is an honest and practical conversation for any teaching navigating their next step - without losing yourself along the way. In this episode, you’ll learn:What it’s really like to move into leadership early in your teaching career.The signs it may be time to pause, recalibrate or step back to protect your wellbeing.How school systems and structures shape the experience of career growth.What meaningful support looks like - from colleagues, leaders and school culture.How to approach your next career step with clarity, confidence and long-term perspective.Topics we explore:(00:00) Introduction to Career Progression and Leadership(02:13) James' First Year in Leadership (04:08) Dr Fiona Longmuir - Fast Tracking Careers(05:11) The First Five Years(08:24) Skills for Early Leadership(09:07) Instability and Workforce Challenges(11:57) Mid-Career Attrition and Burnout(14:35) Building Belonging for Teachers(16:10) Time, Money and Respect (19:49) Taking Charge of Career Progression(22:14) Finding Mentors and Networks(24:49) Rediscovering the Joy of Teaching(25:41) The Future of the Teaching WorkforceResources: Monash Education - Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) Short Courses  Explore flexible short courses and programs to support your leadership journey at every stage of your teaching career.Monash Education - Education Workforce for the FutureA Monash-led research initiative focused on improving teacher retention, leadership and system-wide reform.Special Guests: Dr Fiona LongmuirSenior Lecturer, School of Education, Culture & SocietyFaculty of Education, Monash UniversityCo-Leader of the Education Workforce, Future Impact LabConnect with Fiona on LinkedIn or BlueskyJames DesmondHistory and Politics Secondary School TeacherGovernment School, MelbourneConnect with James on LinkedInIf you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast. If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website.We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

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• Navigating the Manosphere: When Gender Ideologies Enter the Classroom

  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, and why current responses from leadership to policy, aren’t keeping pace.This episode digs into the structural gaps and the cultural discomfort that let these patterns continue - and what meaningful change could look like if everyone committed to sharing the responsibility in ensuring schools are safe, respectful spaces for everyone. In this episode, you’ll learn:How misogynistic rhetoric is influencing student behaviour.What it’s really like to be a female teacher experiencing these patterns.The gaps in school systems around support and accountability.The role of male teachers as allies and what whole-school accountability looks like.Why respectful relationships education must be more than a one-off session.Topics we explore:(00:00) What Is The Manosphere(00:28) The Rise of Misogyny in Classrooms(02:11) Understanding the Manosphere(04:43) What It Looks Like on the Ground(09:09) When Students Choose to Speak Up(10:44) A New Wave of Undermining Behaviour(14:22) Advice for Early Career Teachers(16:50) Breaking the Silence(19:22) Leadership’s Role in Cultural Change(20:42) Why Respectful Relationships Education Falls Short(24:10) Male Teachers as Allies(30:52) Preparing the Next Generation of Teachers Warning: This episode discusses gendered violence and sexual harassment. If you need support, contact 1800-RESPECT. Resources: Respectful RelationshipsRespectful Relationships education as a core component of the Victorian Curriculum from Foundation to Year 12.1800-RESPECTAvailable for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. Call, text, online chat or video call options available.Special Guests: Dr Stephanie WescottLecturer, School of Education, Culture & SocietyFaculty of Education, Monash University  Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn or BlueSkySimone NguyenProfessional Learning Leader and Secondary School TeacherGovernment School, MelbourneIf you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcast. If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website.We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

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• Cultivating Creativity and Critical Thinking in the classroom

  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 empower students. Through lively conversation, our guests provide practical strategies for embedding these skills into teaching, highlight the nuanced ways they can be nurtured in students and tackle the intricate challenge of assessing such dynamic competencies.Together, we explore:The crucial role of creativity and critical thinking across all areas of education, especially in science.How creativity and critical thinking drives student engagement and deeper learning.Strategies for fostering an educational culture that promotes collaboration, deep reflection and effective self-management among students.Techniques for explicitly teaching and integrating creativity and critical thinking to foster students’ comprehension of the curriculum.The complexities of assessing these skills, emphasizing the importance of focusing on processes and thought patterns rather than just final learning outcomes.Dive into this episode to discover how fostering creativity and critical thinking can revolutionize educational practices, making learning more dynamic and impactful. Join us on this creative journey in Let’s Talk Teaching.Resources:OECD - Critical Creative Thinking Project (class-friendly Rubriks)The Power of Making Things VisibleTeaching Creative ThinkingSpecial Guests:Dr Jen MansfieldSenior Lecturer, Science Education - Monash UniversityMelissa GattLearning and Teaching Leader - St Peter’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Epping If you’re enjoying Let’s Talk Teaching, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! You can follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook, and share your thoughts on the show by using the hashtag #letstalkteachingpodcastIf you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit: Monash Education's learn more page.We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.

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