The latest textbooks by two USC academics who are leaders in the educational and psychological development of children will be launched by Oxford University Press at USC on Thursday 2 November.

Understanding Development and Learning: Implications for Teaching is a new book by USC’s Associate Professor of Education Michael Nagel and QUT’s Dr Laura Scholes.

Dr Nagel said the book showed how the developmental characteristics of children affected learning and behaviour across all sectors of education.

“The book focuses on creating a better understanding of how children develop and learn, and how this information can be used in more effective teaching methods, curricula and educational policy,” he said.

“It is based on contemporary neuroscience at the nexus of research in child development and the science of learning.”

The third edition of Diversity, Inclusion & Engagement has been developed by USC Professor Emeritus of Education Merv Hyde with Griffith University’s Lorelei Carpenter and USC Professor of Education Shelley Dole.

Professor Hyde, who researches inclusive education, developmental disability and deafness, said the new edition of one of Australia’s most successful textbooks for teachers argued for a broader focus on inclusive education in schools.

“It focuses on the rights of all children to participate in education, and the engagement and outcomes they can demonstrate,” he said.

“There are new guidelines on early childhood education, literacy and numeracy, technology, mental health and wellbeing, and support for indigenous students and immigrant children.

“This edition also responds to constant change in schools, and reflects on what teachers and schools can do to arrest the increasing trend of student suspension and exclusion that runs counter to decades of inclusive education in Australia.”

— Julie Schomberg