The Science of Learning for Effective Teaching

Dr Nathaniel Swain

Dr Nathaniel Swain brings a myriad of experiences and expertise to his role as Senior Lecturer, Learning Sciences and Learner Engagement and Director of Academic Programs – Undergraduate.  Originally educated as a linguist and speech-language pathologist, Nathaniel became a classroom teacher to pursue his lifelong dream of teaching students so every child can achieve their best. Drawing upon his linguistics, instructional coaching, and even his performing arts expertise, Nathaniel creates effective and engaging learning environments for any student with whom he works, and he is highly sought after in schools and systems around Australia. 

Dr Swain has significant practical and theoretical experience, having worked as Head of Teaching and Learning and Instructional Coach across secondary and primary settings in Victoria. He has received several prestigious awards in his career including: the Learning Difficulties Australia Mona Tobias Award (2023), Engagement Excellence and Teaching Excellence Awards (2018), and the 2016 Three Minute Thesis Competition (Winner, University of Melbourne Grand Final; and Runner-Up, Asia-Pacific Final). 

Dr Nathaniel Swain founded and spear-headed the influential Think Forward Educators community. Now a registered charity, this organisation provides quality professional learning, guidance, and networking for teachers and educators across Australia. With more than 23,000 members nationally, Think Forward is an influential force for supporting teachers to learn about, adopt, and refine the practices that align with the Science of Learning.

Nathaniel is a blogger and writer, producing a newsletter for teachers called the Cognitorium, and has a book for school leaders and educators coming out this year, entitled Harnessing the Science of Learning: Success Stories to Kickstart Your School Improvement.

Vanessa Rohlf 

Vanessa is a Research Officer in the School of Psychology and Public Health, and is a consultant, therapist, and educator specialising in compassion fatigue, stress management, pet loss, and animal bereavement.

Paulieen Bennett 

Pauleen is Head of Department of Psychology and Counselling at La Trobe University. She is Australia’s leading expert in Anthrozoology, past-President and Fellow of the International Society for Anthrozoology, and Associate Editor of the field’s leading journal, Anthrozöos. Since 2011, she has led a multidisciplinary research group focusing on human-companion dog relationships, and particularly on how these impact human health and dog welfare.