Visits to the Science of Learning in Education Centre and Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice

On 19 September 2024, 30 personnel from MINDEF-SAF visited the Science of Learning in Education Centre (SoLEC), at the Office of Education Research (OER). The visit was led by Head TDG, SLTC Eric How from the Air Force Training Command.

Assoc Prof Teo Wei Peng, Assistant Centre Director in Interdisciplinary Research & Partnerships, Dr Elizabeth Koh, Deputy Director (Academic) at the Education Research Funding Programme Office (ERFPO) and Senior Research Scientist from the Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice (CRPP), and Dr Yang Yifan, Education Research Scientist at SoLEC, shared how an interdisciplinary field that integrates insights from multiple fields, including neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, sociology, education, and other areas, provided a scientific understanding of how learning occurs and research evidence can be translated into educational practices and strategies that promote learners’ well-being, healthy development, and transferable learning.

The visitors were given a tour of the interactive classroom and a showcase on the range of neurological  and physiological feedback tools such EEG, ECG, EDM and eye trackers which provided great insights on how objective data are collected by the researchers.

The visit concluded after a discussion on the potential areas for future collaboration.   

 

On 27 September 2024, SoLEC hosted 15 delegates from the Central China Normal University (CCNU). Dr Elizabeth Koh and Dr Jack Fogarty, Education Research Scientist from SoLEC, conducted a professional development workshop to introduce Science of Learning focusing on its technological tools and learning analytics to the delegates. They interacted with the tools, had lively discussions and thoroughly enjoyed the workshop.

On 8 October 2024, SoLEC and CRPP hosted 15 delegates from Australian Catholic Educators. The programme provided an opportunity for these educators to engage with cutting-edge educational research and discuss practical applications within their own educational contexts.

Dr Jack Fogarty introduced SoLEC’s mission, and current research initiatives, focusing on how wearable technology is being translated into school settings to enhance student learning and engagement.

Next, Dr Aishah Abdul Rahman, Education Research Scientist from SoLEC, presented on "Understanding Executive Functions and Planning for Interventions". This presentation explored cognitive processes critical for student success and how schools can plan effective interventions to support these functions.

Dr Lee Shu Shing, Education Research Scientist from CRPP presented findings on "Online Professional Learning – Perceptions, Readiness, and Preferences". The session focused on how educators perceive and prepare for online professional learning, highlighting preferences and challenges faced in the digital shift.

Associate Dean of Partnerships at OER, Assoc Prof Loh Chin Ee’s presentation “Designing Learning Environments for Engaged Reading: The School Library as a Case Study", offered insights into how school libraries can be transformed into dynamic learning environments that foster student engagement in reading.

Lastly, Mr. Nathan Trezise, representing the Australian Catholic Educators, shared research on "Embedding Research-Based Practice in Classrooms to Improve Literacy". His presentation reflected on leadership within schools and systems, demonstrating how research-driven methods can be applied to improve literacy outcomes.

The visit was a valuable exchange of ideas, promoting international collaboration in educational research and practice. The Australian Catholic educators left with practical insights on how research can enhance classroom practice, especially in areas like literacy improvement, executive function interventions, and innovative learning environments.