The Learning Curve

In this episode, roles are reversed as host Gordon Stewart interviews Dr. Shannon Barbie, Program Director for Inclusive Practice and Autism. They explore a fundamental shift in education: moving from a deficit mindset to a design mindset. Shannon shares insights from his groundbreaking research on campus accessibility and augmentative communication, offering listeners a toolkit of practical strategies for the classroom—from sensory-informed environments and visual scaffolding to the importance of presuming competence in every learner. Discover how the University of Aberdeen’s Inclusive Practice Project has transformed teacher training, ensuring that inclusion is no longer a specialist's job, but a shared responsibility for every educator.

What does it take to turn a passionate student into a “reflexive, inclusive, and collaborative” teacher? In this episode, Dr. Shannon Babbie sits down with Beth McClure, Alan Grieve, and Gordon Stewart—the leaders behind Aberdeen’s top-ranked teacher education programs.We explore the vital bridge between university theory and classroom practice, discussing how 18-week placements and school-based inquiry tasks prepare future educators for the realities of modern schooling. From the latest shifts in the Scottish curriculum and digital pedagogies to the personal “drive and passion” required to succeed in the profession, discover why the University of Aberdeen is ranked #1 in Scotland for Primary Education. Whether you are a prospective student, a career changer, or a fellow educator, this conversation offers an insider’s look at the future of teacher training.

In this episode of The Learning Curve, host Dr. Shannon Babbie is joined by Stephanie O’Reilly, program director for the MEd in Health and Wellbeing at the University of Aberdeen. O’Reilly defines wellbeing as a relational concept that "ebbs and flows daily," noting that mental health and education are deeply intertwined. The discussion explores trauma-informed practice and the necessity of supportive relationships in schools. O’Reilly provides practical advice for educators, such as viewing all behaviour as communication and developing active listening skills. She further emphasizes moving beyond tokenistic self-care to provide teachers with the time, trust, and professional space they need to thrive. Finally, she highlights her work with the Centre for Teaching Excellence and Scotland’s ongoing curriculum reform cycle.

In this episode of The Learning Curve, host Dr. Shannon Babbie joins Dr. Archie Graham to discuss the transition from "Theory to Practice". As a senior lecturer and Director of the Postgraduate Research Programme, Dr. Graham explains how theory serves as a practical "tool" for solving real-world classroom problems rather than just an academic concept.The discussion explores the Florian and Black-Hawkins framework for participation and an organizing grid designed to manage classroom complexity through social, cognitive, and linguistic lenses. Dr. Graham also highlights his research on preparing teachers for high-poverty contexts and his current project reimagining global teacher preparation. Learn why research-active universities are essential for understanding knowledge production and how theory helps new educators navigate the "complexity of the classroom"

In this episode, host Dr Shannon Babbie explores the integration of technology in the modern classroom. She is joined by School of Education lecturers and programme directors Gordon Stewart and Alan Grieve. The discussion begins by defining blended learning as a mix of face-to-face instruction and online, asynchronous learning via the university's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The guests note this approach offers flexibility and promotes student autonomy. The conversation then transitions to Artificial Intelligence (AI), a major topic of debate in education. The guests discuss Generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot as aids for resource creation , accessibility , and providing inspiration for lesson planning. They emphasize that AI is a tool and that the teacher's professional judgment remains paramount. Key challenges are also addressed, including fear of the "unknown" , the rapid pace of change , the digital divide in Scotland , and structural barriers like funding and access. The episode highlights how the School of Education is actively researching these challenges, particularly focusing on GenAI use for student teachers on professional placement. A new elective course, "Digital Technologies in the Primary Classroom," is also detailed. The guests conclude that Aberdeen's focus on technology and pedagogy prepares students to be confident, critically reflective, and autonomous practitioners for the modern Scottish classroom.

Welcome to the very first episode of The Learning Curve, a new podcast from the University of Aberdeen's School of Education. Join your host, Dr. Shannon Babbie, as she kicks off Season 1, "The Future of Education," by sitting down with a very special guest: the Head of the School of Education, Catriona McDonald. In this foundational episode, Catriona provides a comprehensive look at the school's identity. She traces its fascinating history from the first teacher training colleges established in the 1870s, through its mergers and moves, to the modern, dynamic school it is today. Beyond its history, Catriona discusses the school's current vision, explaining how it's adapting to the rapidly changing needs of society. Find out how new departments and a focus on subjects like neurodiversity, mindfulness, and counselling are shaping the next generation of educators. In this episode, you’ll learn about:The rich history of teacher training in Aberdeen over the last 150 years.The school's evolving structure, including its four key departments: Early Years, Initial Teacher Education (ITE), Post-Graduate Taught, and the vital Health and Wellbeing department.The central role of practitioner research in helping students and staff adapt to real-world educational challenges.What makes Aberdeen unique: a deep commitment to student support, individual care, and outstanding staff-student ratios.How the school leverages its "rural city" location to emphasize outdoor learning and student well-being.A special teaser for next week’s episode on AI and blended learning.