Dr Emily presented at the Western Australian Institute for Educational Research conference on 16 August. She presented some PhD findings regarding Discussion Based Teaching in Health Education.
Abstract: Discussion Based Teaching in Health Education
Health education is critical in imparting health literacy to children and developing community health and wellbeing. The effectiveness of the teaching learning interaction in health education classes depends on the teacher employing effective teaching methods, facilitating student deep understanding, critical thinking, and the development of skills, beliefs and attitudes. Health education teaching differs from other learning areas as it addresses controversial and sensitive topics in class. Little research has been conducted regarding the preferred teaching methods of health educators and their ability to employ these teaching methods effectively in the classroom.
In this presentation, I will present findings from my doctoral grounded theory study to explain the preferred teaching methods of health teachers. This study determined that the preferred teaching method of the teachers delivering health education in WA is discussion-based teaching. Our findings show that teachers report preferring a discussion-based teaching approach, even though the health curriculum advises a critical inquiry approach while many Australian schools currently promote explicit teaching. Effective teaching practices need to be interrogated to support teachers, so how do we do this in a way that provides clarity for teachers and ultimately produces the best outcomes for young people?
40th Annual Research Forum at Murdoch University on Saturday 16 August