Evidence-based Learning and Teaching: A Look into Australian Classrooms

Education has become a political, economic and social priority for Australia, with the success of schools (and teachers) being an integral part of the economic and social future of the country. As a result, quality assurance for learning and teaching has become increasingly debated among policy-makers and the broader public, with a call for more evidence, data and standards to ensure that schools and teachers are held accountable for students’ learning outcomes.

In response, this book provides a snapshot of the types of evidence and data relating to learning outcomes that are being collected in our classrooms within Australia. The chapters in this book seek to interrogate current views of learning and teaching, beyond what is measured in external assessments that only capture a limited view of student learning outcomes. The chapters explore a range of fundamental topics within education, including positive learning environments, student voice and assessment. They explore and articulate the vital knowledge and skills needed for current and future teachers. In addition, these chapters make clear links between teaching, learning and the theories that frame, shape and inform these learning and teaching processes.

The research presented in this book provides practical and theoretical insights into learning and teaching in early years, primary, secondary and tertiary education.

Dr Melissa Barnes is a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education, Monash University, Australia. While her teaching career began in the United States, it is her teaching experiences in Germany, Vietnam, Australia and Brunei that have collectively shaped her understanding of language, literacy, assessment and teacher education in diverse educational contexts.

Dr Maria Gindidis is a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education, Monash University, Australia. Her teaching career began in Australian high schools. Her work as State coordinator of Bilingual Schools and leadership roles in the Department of Education influenced her current research in education leadership within culturally diverse and marginalised contexts.

Professor Sivanes Phillipson is Professor of Education and Associate Dean International at the Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia. She is also the Routledge Series Editor for Evolving Families. Her research interest and experience focus on family studies in particular parental involvement and expectations of culturally and linguistically diverse and disadvantaged young children and their educational outcomes.