Use play to enhance literacy and learning
We hear a lot about apparent declines in scores for literacy and numeracy – we hear less about what some of the fundamental bedrocks of learning and literacy are; especially at a time when what literacy means is changing.
University of Wollongong research fellow and doctoral candidate Natalie Day said ‘play embeds key psychological needs into classroom learning for long-term impact’.
‘We know that one of the ways that children learn most successfully is through play. Playfulness is characteristic of joy, of meaningful choice, and of autonomy. Play enables connection, self-awareness and self-regulation through interaction of thoughts, body and action. In other words, it is an embodied practice.
‘Guided play offers opportunities for adult-designed outcomes (ie, the curriculum) alongside playfully prioritising children’s autonomy and active participation; through their choices, interests and pace of learning.
The world celebrates the Season of Creation
The Season of Creation (1 September-4 October) began with an online event followed by more than 6000 people worldwide and the celebrations continue.
In Korea celebrations began with a Mass and a march in the streets; bishops from different countries such as Myanmar, Spain, the US, Brazil and Mexico, celebrated Masses and sent messages to their communities; also the seminarians of the Philippines joined in prayer and in Brazil the news reached the airwaves.
In Argentina and Honduras Masses for Creation were celebrated, and in Kenya they also participated in the march for the African People. In Hong Kong, for the first time, the diocese embraced the Season of Creation, making a special exhibition of The Letter.
Read
more.
Religion in the school curriculum
The PM Glynn Institute, a public policy think tank established by Australian Catholic University, published a monograph by academic Dr Kevin Donnelly on the common assumption that teaching religion in schools is generally not permitted in Australia.
Dr Donnelly examines the current legislative framework and outlines the different provisions in state legislation that permit teaching religion in schools.
It argues that the study of religion has continued relevance for schools and is backed by current practices in Australia and other commensurate overseas education systems.
He concludes with three models for incorporating religion into the curriculum, stating that while there is no one-size-fits-all option, ‘ensuring the national curriculum’s . . . general capabilities deal with religion in a more substantial way’ is worthwhile, and, importantly, feasible. Read more.
ACRATH returns to Canberra
Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans (ACRATH) is back in Canberra, visiting Members of Parliament and senior advisers, after three years of online advocacy as result of Covid travel restrictions.
In the first week of September, the team of 11 staff and volunteers met with a range of people to raise awareness and advocate for better outcomes for victims and survivors of human trafficking.
The issues raised with key policy makers included the need for:
• A National Compensation Scheme for Victims and Survivors of Modern Slavery
• A National Labour Hire Licensing Scheme
• An independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner.
Read more.
In brief:
Financial boost for future Victorian teaching students: The Victorian government will cover the costs of secondary teaching degrees for future teaching students.
New resources for schools on digital and media literacy: The Australian government has entered into a funding agreement with the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, to make their range of digital and media literacy education products available to all Australian schools. Find the eSmart website here.
What’s On
Registration to participate in Jesuit Global Discernment Circles now open: From 11-30 September, education delegates, school presidents and principals, board members, teachers, pastoral staff, and any other staff members of Jesuit schools worldwide are cordially invited to sign up to participate in Jesuit Global Discernment Circles. This global event will take place online on 9 November 2023. Find out more.
The Positive Schools Wellbeing in Action Conference: Register now via the Positive Schools website.
Sydney, SMC: 25-27 Oct 2023
Melbourne, MCEC: 8-10 Nov 2023
Perth, Fremantle Rydges Hotel: 22-24 Nov 2023
The 2024 CSSA Trial HSC Examinations are scheduled for 5-19 August, with a security period up to and including 8am, Thursday, 22 August 2024. The 2024 dates for online ordering examinations including disability provisions are available on the CSSA website here.
Free DeadlyLearners sessions give young Indigenous students a chance to learn key ideas, meet STEM professionals, ask questions and share knowledge.
Mon, 2 Oct 2023, 9.30-10.30 am AEDT
Find out more.