Talk to explore how relationships are fundamental to learning

York University’s Institute for Research on Digital Learning (IRDL) presents an event on Oct. 2 featuring Professor Emeritus Russell Bishop, foundation Professor for Maori Education in the School of Education at the University of Waikato.

“Relationships are Fundamental to Learning” is an event in the IRDL Speaker Series, and will explore how the creation of a ‘family-like’ learning context within the classroom improves attendance, retention, engagement, and achievement.

Bishop will share the key features of a ‘family-like’ learning environment and discuss the four key aspects that have been developed and integrated in “Culture Counts: Relationship-based Learning”, a professional learning and evaluation program for system leaders, school leaders and teachers.

Bishop has long been involved in the study and development of professional training for teachers and school leaders. His work is centred on the Te Kotahitanga Research and Professional Development Project, which supports teachers to improve Naori students’ learning and achievement and to provide a culturally responsive context for learning.

Ruth Koleszar-Green, chair of the Indigenous Council and assistant professor in the School of Social Work, will offer the official welcome.

The IRDL Speaker Series runs in collaboration with the Faculty of Education and the Office of the Vice-President of Research and Innovation.

The event takes place 5:30 to 7pm in Room 519, Kaneff. To RSVP, email irdl@yorku.ca.