In this episode, we're focusing on a key element of successful schools: understanding and supporting positive student behaviour. Brendan Lee speaks with Dr. Brandi Simonsen, a professor of special education at the University of Connecticut and co-director of the National Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

Brandi shares her practical insights into PBIS, exploring the crucial links between behaviour, attendance, and academic success. We delve into the ABCs of behavior and uncover effective, evidence-based strategies for creating positive classroom environments, from setting clear expectations to the power of specific praise.

Whether you're new to teaching or looking to enhance your practice, this episode offers valuable knowledge and actionable takeaways on implementing Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports.

Resources mentioned:

• Brandi Simonsen and Diane Myers: Classwide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports: A Guide to Proactive Classroom Management
• Diane Myers, Brandi Simonsen and Jennifer Freeman: Implementing Classwide PBIS: A Guide to Supporting Teachers, which I highly recommend.
• National Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

Linkedin

Twitter: @learnwithmrlee

Facebook: @learningwithmrlee

Website: learnwithlee.net

https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode, get ready to dive deep into the world of assessments with Dr. Matthew Burns, as we explore the different categories of assessments, their intended purposes, and how they can be used to inform instruction. Dr. Burns, a researcher with extensive experience in the effective use of assessment data and interventions, shares his expertise on bridging the gap in understanding assessments.

The conversation highlights the significance of the instructional hierarchy in understanding student learning phases, as well as the differences between curriculum-based measurements (CBM) and curriculum-based assessments (CBA). Dr. Burns stresses the necessity of aligning data with educational goals and ensuring teachers are equipped with appropriate frameworks to use assessments effectively. He offers practical advice on reducing unnecessary screening, using data to drive instructional decisions, and implementing effective interventions in reading and maths.

Resources mentioned:

• UFLI Foundations
• Spring Math
• PALS (Peer Assisted Learning Strategies)
• Science of Math: including both the Facebook group and website (thescienceofmath.com).
• National Center on Intensive Intervention:(intensiveintervention.org).
• Evidence Advocacy Center (evidenceadvocacycenter.org).
• Hasbrook and Tyndall fluency norms

You can connect with Matthew:

Twitter: @burnsmk1

Email: burnsm1@coe.ufl.edu

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0ad1ei6p_HOHHhc-T-JnZg

You can connect with Brendan:

Twitter: @learnwithmrlee

Facebook: @learningwithmrlee

Website: learnwithlee.net

https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast

In this episode of Knowledge for Teachers, Brendan Lee speaks with Liana McCurry, a passionate advocate for primary school maths education. Fresh from her Churchill Fellowship, Liana shares findings from her research into mathematical practices across six countries.

Listeners will gain insights into the systemic issues contributing to Australia's declining maths performance and discover how to bridge the research-to-practice gap. Liana delves into key topics, including:

• Mathematical modelling and its surprisingly misunderstood place in the curriculum.
• The power of multisensory approaches to unlock conceptual understanding.
• Why fluency in maths is a foundational skill that needs renewed focus.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that equips educators with practical knowledge and strategies to transform maths education in their classrooms.

Resources mentioned:

• Books:

• • • Explicit Direct Instruction by Hollingsworth and Ybarra.
    • Explicit Instruction by Anita Archer and Charles Hughes
    • Harnessing the Science of Learning by Nathaniel Swain.
    • Direct Instruction Mathematics by Stein et al
  • Websites:
    • Ochre
    • Science of Math website.
    • Thinking Forward Educators,
    • Brian Poncy's MIND
    • Steve Wyborney's Esti Mysteries
  • Podcasts:
    • Knowledge for Teachers.
    • Dyscastia, hosted by Bill Hansberry and Michael Shanahan.
    • Craig Barton podcast.
    • Progressively Incorrect, hosted by Zach Groshell
    • Chalk and Talk, hosted by Anna Stokke

• Training and Conferences:

• • Sharing Best Practice conferences.
  • What Works series in Geelong.
  • Orton Gillingham Math, Multisensory Maths training

You can connect with Liana:

Linkedin

Email: liana@sol-education.net

Website: sol-education.net

You can connect with Brendan:

Twitter: @learnwithmrlee

Facebook: @learningwithmrlee

Website: learnwithlee.net

https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast