Teachers from across the Hunter packed into Maitland High School to hear one of the nation’s leading education researchers empower them as guides, in both academia and society, for tomorrow’s young people.
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Professor Stephen Dinham, an associate dean from the University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Education, spoke to teachers from Rutherford Technology High School, Francis Greenway High School, Singleton High School, Whitebridge High School, Maitland High School and local primary schools.
The lecture cut through many misconceptions around modern teaching from gifted-and-talented students relying on natural ability to neurology and social status.
“We only use 10 per cent of our brains – rubbish. Left-brain, right-brain – rubbish,” he said.
While speaking plainly, Dr Dinham’s address focused on empowering students, regardless of circumstance, to reach their maximum capacity.
He pointed to studies which found that, while higher socioeconomic status relates to higher academic results on average, effective teachers are able to close the gap.
“Life isn’t fair,” he said, reading from his research.
“But good teaching and good schools are the best means we have of overcoming disadvantage and opening doors of opportunity for young people.”
He also warned against empty-praise, making mention of teaching styles which place high emphasis on merit awards while avoiding constructive criticism.
“Self-esteem boosting, through easy success and empty praise, coupled with failure avoidance, is counter-productive,” he read.
“Because once these kids hit real problems all the air goes out of the balloon – failure can be a good motivator if it’s used right.
“We need to be honest [as teachers].
“[Students] need regular, constructive feedback on how to improve.”
In the lead-up to the event, relieving principal Paula Graham told the Mercury the conference was part of the school’s transformation.