Disruption to Transformation
07 Aug 2023
On Thursday 27 July 2023, LEA QLD hosted a captivating event featuring 10 dynamic speakers who engaged the audience through an innovative Pechakucha format.
Each speaker presented 20 slides, each shown precisely for 20 seconds, making for a rapid exploration of the drivers behind disruption and transformation in education. The powerful presentation style left the attendees inspired and optimistic for change.
The list of incredible speakers included:
- Kali Marnane – Associate Director, Urbis + Emily Bell – Architect, Towill Architects
- Marie Previte – EREA
- Emily Low – Mott McDonald
- Cindy Corrie – Sycamore School
- Terry Deen – Head of Learning, GOMA
- Pam Tham – Learning Creates Australia Alliance
- Kellie Stemp – Leader of Learning, Wollemi Flexi Schools
- Sue Chandler – Transformative Schools
- Jules McMurtrie – Jumping Fish
- Rhys Cassidy – Acting Principal, AITC
Conversations centred around the evolving landscape of education and the imperative to cultivate meta-cognitive and communication skills in students. The focus was on nurturing students to become creative problem solvers and adapting learning pathways from linear to more diverse and flexible options to support this ambition.
Jules McMurtrie brought the spotlight to Education 5.0, and a new focus on People and Planet. Educators were encouraged to leverage transformative technologies, such as AI, renewable energy, and biotechnology, to equip students with the technical skills necessary to address global environmental challenges.
Another vital aspect emphasised during the discussions was the need for holistic education. Prioritising students' physical and mental well-being was deemed fundamental to effective learning and personal growth. The event underscored the significance of creating nurturing learning environments that support overall wellness.
Pamela Tham from Learning Creates expressed the need to support young people to thrive in 3 ways; individually, to have a strong sense of identity; as learners and workers; and as citizens who contribute to society. A key lever for change would involve a shift in the education system from one which currently ranks students against each other, to one that matches compatible students to collaborate, connect, understand and bring them together for common action.
The event shed light on the immense potential to revolutionise learning experiences, empower future generations, and tackle pressing global issues. LEA QLD's event was a step towards a transformative educational journey, urging educators, designers and policy makers to embrace change and prepare students for a world that demands creativity, adaptability and a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Written by: Christian Co, Director of Cox
Photographer: Julie Saunders
