Evidence vs Ideology: Why the Science of Learning Matters?

In this episode, British educator Dr Carl Hendrick and Australian policy advisor Dr Simon Breakspear join CIS's Glenn Fahey to unpack the rise of the ‘science of learning’ and its promise to transform Australian education.

Drawing from global research and classroom practice, the panel explores how cognitive science is reshaping how we think about effective teaching—challenging outdated methods and calling for a shift toward explicit instruction, knowledge-rich curricula, and better teacher preparation.

Together, they tackle key questions driving education reform:

• Why has evidence-based teaching been so slow to take hold?

• How can schools translate research into real-world practice?

• What must change in teacher training to improve student outcomes?

With practical insights and policy expertise, this episode charts a path for embedding the science of learning at the heart of Australian schooling—and building an education system that serves all students, not just a lucky few.