Play is more than just fun - it’s a key driver of creativity, problem-solving and social connection in early learning. Yet as children progress through school, opportunities for play often shrink - taking with them an essential part of how students learn, reason and make sense of the world.

In this episode, early years researcher Dr Leigh Disney, and teacher and PhD Candidate Hong Chen share practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for keeping play alive across year levels. From imaginative play corners to structured problem-solving, they explore how teachers can balance curriculum demands with creativity - and why it’s so important in supporting literacy, numeracy, identity and emotional growth.

At a time when adaptability, creativity and critical thinking are increasingly vital in our rapidly changing world, play remains one of the most powerful tools teachers can use to prepare students for the future.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why play-based learning supports academic and emotional growth.
• How play changes across developmental stages—and why it still matters.
• What imaginative learning looks like in real classrooms.
• Strategies for embedding play without compromising curriculum goals.
• Why play can help students build identity, agency and connection.

Topics we explore:

(00:00) Introduction to Play in Learning
(02:09) What Is Play?
(04:17) Imaginative Play in Early Childhood
(06:17) Linking Play to Learning
(09:06) Play to Support Learning from Kindergarten to School
(14:40) Conceptual Play Worlds and Problem Solving
(17:08) Collective Play and Building Connection
(19:07) Fostering Imagination in Play Over the Years
(21:45) Chaos and Problem Solving in Imaginative Play
(25:04) Imagination in Upper Primary
(26:55) Where Teachers Can Start with Play
(30:00) Balancing Curriculum and Play
(31:45) Final Thoughts on Purposeful Play

Resources:

• Conceptual PlayWorlds
  An evidence-based model developed by Professor Marilyn Fleer for embedding imagination and inquiry-based learning into early years education.
• Monash Education Course Options
  Learn more about postgraduate study options in early years and primary education.

Special Guests:

Dr Leigh Disney
Early Years Lecturer, School of Educational Psychology & Counselling
Faculty of Education, Monash University
Connect with Leigh on LinkedIn

Hong Chen
PhD Candidate & Early Childhood Teacher
Connect with Hong on LinkedIn, Instagram and X

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 #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.

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 Teaching

Resources:

• Love Maths by Michael Minas
  Free, simple maths games for use at both home and at school.
• SURF Maths
  A 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 300
  Subscription-based maths lesson library, supporting inquiry through rich tasks and games.
• Wheel of Names
  A free random selector tool that was designed for choosing winners or names.

Related research:

• Unpacking game mechanics: Five types of whole-class mathematical games
• Transforming mathematical games into investigations
• Five principles of educationally rich mathematical games

Special Guests:

Dr James Russo
Senior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education
Faculty of Education, Monash University

Matt Hale
Teacher
St Patrick’s Primary School, Mentone

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 #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.

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 Curious

Resources:

• 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 Course
  Explore 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 Blannin
Senior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education
Faculty of Education, Monash University
Connect with Jo on LinkedIn

Miguel Regalo
Professional Growth & eLearning Leader
Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
Connect with Miguel on LinkedIn

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 #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.

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 Workforce

Resources:

• 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 Future
  A Monash-led research initiative focused on improving teacher retention, leadership and system-wide reform.

Special Guests:
Dr Fiona Longmuir
Senior Lecturer, School of Education, Culture & Society
Faculty of Education, Monash University
Co-Leader of the Education Workforce, Future Impact Lab
Connect with Fiona on LinkedIn or Bluesky

James Desmond
History and Politics Secondary School Teacher
Government School, Melbourne
Connect with James on LinkedIn

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 #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.

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 Relationships
  Respectful Relationships education as a core component of the Victorian Curriculum from Foundation to Year 12.
• 1800-RESPECT
  Available 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 Wescott
Lecturer, School of Education, Culture & Society
Faculty of Education, Monash University
Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn or BlueSky

Simone Nguyen
Professional Learning Leader and Secondary School Teacher
Government School, Melbourne

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 #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.

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 Visible
• Teaching Creative Thinking

Special Guests:

Dr Jen Mansfield
Senior Lecturer, Science Education - Monash University

Melissa Gatt
Learning 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 #letstalkteachingpodcast

If 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.

In this episode, we explore the evolving world of literacy education, where technological innovations are revolutionising traditional teaching and learning methods.

Our guests Dr. Kylie Bradfield and Claudia Shute, explore the critical role of literacy across all curriculum areas, emphasising how incorporating students’ home languages can enrich literacy education by enhancing comprehension and inclusivity. They also discuss the transformative impact of children’s books, highlighting its power to offer students mirrors and windows - reflecting their own experiences, whilst exposing them to new perspectives at the same time.

Together, we explore:

• The broad scope of literacy which now encompasses not only traditional reading and writing, but also critical thinking and the ability to navigate technology effectively.
• Children’s books and their importance in developing literacy - offering both mirrors for students to see themselves and windows to learn about the world.
• The challenges of teaching literacy in today’s diverse classrooms and the importance of valuing students’ home languages to enhance comprehension and inclusivity.
• How parents can play a pivotal role in literacy development through activities such as reading together with their children.
• The need for ongoing support for teachers and access to research-informed pedagogical strategies to elevate literacy standards within the classroom.

This episode highlights the broad impact of literacy on academic success and personal development, advocating for a holistic approach that empowers teachers, involves parents and meets the diverse needs of students. Jump in and Let’s Talk Teaching.

Resources:

• My Two Blankets
• The Red Beast
• I Wanna Iguana

Special Guests:

Dr Kylie Bradfield
Senior Lecturer, Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education - Monash University

Claudia Shute
Teacher - Barton Primary School, Cranbourne West

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 #letstalkteachingpodcast

If 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.