For decades, thought leaders in education have emphasized that our current approach is outdated and urgently needs to evolve. Yet, despite the influx of new technologies, schools remain largely the same. Influential organisations like the World Economic Forum, the OECD, and leading thinkers such as Yong Zhao, Valerie Hannon, and Bill Lucas, have been calling for a shift in focus. They advocate for reimagining education, prioritising skills like creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability. However, in many Western countries like Australia, the emphasis remains on standardized testing, final year exams, and the ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank).
Principals and teachers at the front lines are well aware that something has to give. Student engagement is plummeting, behavioural and mental health issues are rising at an alarming rate, and the intensifying workload is driving teachers out of the profession, contributing to a severe teacher shortage.
So, why isn't change happening? Why, when we instinctively know that the education system isn’t adequately preparing our young people for an AI-dominated world, are school leaders not leading a charge for transformation?
Dr Paul Browning will draw from extensive research and real-world examples to provide actionable insights for transforming education. You'll leave with a clear understanding of the challenges facing our education system and practical strategies for driving positive change in your school or district.
