The Harbour Library Journal

  In modern times, majority of people talk about teaching in an attempt to describe learning (Watkins, Eileen, Carnell, Lodge, Wagner and Whalley, 2002). Professor Robert Coe’s study (as cited in University of South wales, 2015) asserted that learning cannot be determined by merely observing a teacher. Teaching and learning are two sides of a coin. Watkins et al (2002), described learning as a constructive activity that influences a student to link prior knowledge with present information in order to influence the future. Alistair Smith (2015) in his video affirmed that learning is a purposeful and lively engagement. When having my reflection at the end of every lesson, I would often ask myself a question- “did learning take place”? I use seven key features to assess if learning has taken place- purposeful, lively, enjoyable, collaborative, individualized, practicable and applicable. I answer my reflective question in the affirmative if I saw that the children were activel...

In a culturally diverse society such as ours it is vital for teachers and school owners to have the resources, expertise and understanding needed to help children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including aboriginal backgrounds, settle into a caring and welcoming school (Ponciano & Shabazian,2012). This is particularly necessary in young children who have a need for rapid physical, mental, emotional, and social development during their early years in order to avoid cultural conflicts- (Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2003). A qualitative and culturally sensitive school with broad minded teachers must understand this need and create an inclusive environment that will remove every barrier to children’s learning and total development (Ponciano & Shabazian, 2012).  Teachers must set realistic and challenging expectations that meet the needs of children from diverse background and culture (QCA, 2000). The essence of this empathetic approach is because cu...