Dr Ben Knight – ECRG Pedagogy Strand Leader
On Monday 5th June 2023, Dr Mark Hardman of UCL and Dr Lindsay Hetherington of the University of Exeter delivered a fascinating lunchtime research seminar focusing on ‘New Materialist’ ways of thinking about classrooms and teachers. Their aim was to show how theory can be used to inspire research into teaching practice. Drawing on examples from their own projects using a ‘material dialogic’ theoretical framework, Mark and Lindsay helped us explore different perspectives on teaching and learning practice.
Participants were invited to consider how ‘material dialogic’ concepts aligned with their own research interests and contexts. The event prompted much fruitful discussion between Education & Childhood colleagues and provided a valuable space for reflection on theory and practice.
Feedback from the event was very positive, with PGCE Secondary Programme Leader Will Grant commenting:
“It was good to have some mental stimulation during a day of administrative chores! More opportunity, and expectation, that colleagues involve themselves in activities such as this can only be of benefit to the ITE team.”
Professor Jane Andrews also commented:
“I just wanted to say thank you for organising such a great seminar session today. I thought both speakers were really excellent and very engaging and the format for the event was really great too. Please pass on my thanks to the speakers and I’d love to attend more events like this one!”
Thanks to everyone who attended in person and online. More ECRG Pedagogy Strand events are planned for the 2023-24 academic year so please look out for announcements.
