With Prof. Rebecca Lazarides

In this motivational end-of-term episode, Professor Rebecca Lazarides (Professor for Empirical Research on Instruction and Schools at the University of Potsdam, Germany) discusses what keeps teachers motivated - even when energy is running low. Rebecca shares insights from her work on teacher motivation, explaining how self-reflection, supportive colleagues, and celebrating small wins can help teachers stay positive. The conversation explores practical strategies for managing emotions, the importance of authentic enthusiasm, and how school environments shape motivation. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their successes and try new ideas, leaving them with a boost of encouragement as they head into a well-deserved break.

The podcast in bullet points:

 * Teacher motivation and its impact on teaching quality.
 * The distinction between enthusiasm for the subject and enthusiasm for teaching.
 * The role of teacher emotions in classroom dynamics and student motivation.
 * External factors affecting teacher motivation, such as school environment and job demands.
 * Strategies for teachers to manage emotions and maintain motivation.
 * The importance of strong student-teacher relationships in fostering motivation.
 * Emotional regulation as a critical skill for teachers.
 * The influence of self-efficacy on teacher motivation and performance.
 * The significance of reflective practices in enhancing teacher motivation.
 * The situational nature of teacher motivation and its variability across different teaching contexts.

The British Journal of Educational Psychology Special Edition is available on this link:

https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/20448279/2025/95/4

How Teacher Emotions and Motivation Shape Student Success

...With Prof. Neil Mercer

Neil Mercer is Emeritus Professor of Education at the University of Cambridge and a psychologist and in this episode we discuss the pivotal role of spoken language and oracy in education. We explored how classroom dialogue, reasoned discussion, and public speaking can be systematically taught to enhance students' thinking and communication skills. Neil shared insights on the impact of the pandemic on language development, practical strategies for fostering effective dialogue, and the importance of classroom culture and listening. We also discussed the value of public speaking for all students and highlighted resources for teachers to support spoken language development.

The discussion in bullet points:

 * Importance of spoken language in education.
 * Development of children's language and thinking skills.
 * Role of reasoned discussion and dialogue in classrooms.
 * Influence of educational theorists like Vygotsky on language development.
 * Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's language skills.
 * Practical strategies for teaching reasoned discussion.
 * Challenges teachers face in fostering effective dialogue.
 * Benefits of group work and whole-class discussions for student engagement.
 * The significance of classroom culture in promoting open discussion.
 * The necessity of public speaking skills in education and its role in democratic participation.

Links:

Find out more about Neil's work: https://oracycambridge.org/

Blog: https://oracycambridge.org/blog/

Neil's Book - Oracy: The Transformative Power of Finding Your Voice

https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/467731/oracy-by-mercer-neil/9781847928566

BPS Psychologist Article on Oracy 'Is it only words' https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/it-only-words

I'll be sharing some older episodes that link to this about speech and language over the break so please do sign up to my newsletter: https://changingstatesofmind.com/contact-me

Speaking Up: How to Cultivate Confident Communicators in the Classroom

…with Dr. Marc Skelton.

In this episode we bridge the gap between classroom practice and psychological theory to share actionable strategies for fostering student success. Drawing on years of teaching experience to research at the University of Warwick, Marc breaks down what truly drives student engagement.

Marc introduces us to Paulo Freire's "banking model" of education, and advocates for a shift to active, meaningful learning where students are co-creators of knowledge. The core of the conversation centres on Self-Regulated Learning (SRL), exploring Barry Zimmerman's three phases: Forethought (planning), Performance (the "missing middle" of self-monitoring), and Self-Reflection (learning from experience).

We then dive into the Transformative Power of Goal Setting, emphasizing that success requires both Agency ("I can do this") and Pathways (concrete plans). Learn about the impact of Goal Diaries and the critical role of Meaningful Talk and Social Support in sustaining motivation. Finally, we discuss how educators can redefine success by celebrating Achievement (personal growth) over mere Attainment (grades), creating classrooms where every student thrives.

Bullet points:

 * Dual role of the speaker as a teacher and researcher in educational psychology.

 * Journey into teaching mathematics and interest in educational psychology.

 * Exploration of student motivation and engagement in learning.

 * Influence of Paulo Freire's pedagogy and Albert Bandura's agency theory on educational practices.

 * Development of a tutor time program focused on metacognition and self-regulated learning.

 * Insights from research on definitions and perceptions of learning among students and teachers.

 * Distinction between attainment (external measures) and achievement (personal significance) in education.

 * Importance of self-regulated learning, goal setting, and meaningful communication in enhancing student motivation.

 * Findings on the impact of social interaction and support on students' goal achievement and well-being.

 * Advocacy for integrating psychological principles into educational practices to foster meaningful learning experiences.

Marc's Website visit www.positivelearningpsychology.com [http://www.positivelearningpsychology.com/]

Theories, Books and Researchers

"Pedagogy of the Oppressed" and "Pedagogy of Hope" by Paulo Freire

Albert Bandura - agency theory [https://albertbandura.com/albert-bandura-agency.html]

Martin Seligman - Positive Psychology [https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/]

George Kelly - Personal Construct Psychology

Carl Rogers - Person-Centered Approach

Carol Dweck - growth mindset [https://teachingcommons.stanford.edu/teaching-guides/foundations-course-design/learning-activities/growth-mindset-and-enhanced-learning]

Zimmerman & Schunk (1989) [https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1989-98230-000] Self-regulated learning and academic achievement: Theory, research, and practice

Listening to Learners: How Meaningful Talk Fuels Motivation and Achievement

...with Dr Mike Hobbiss

Mike is an experienced psychology teacher and co-author of "How to Teach Psychology: An Evidence-Informed Approach." In this episode Mike explains how learning and disciplinary fundamentals shape classroom practice, and introduces the SLOP (Shed Loads of Practice) approach, emphasizing varied, repeated practice for deeper understanding. Despite examples and context being set within Psychology as a subject, the concepts and practice is applicable to a wide range of subjects. The discussion explores practical strategies, the importance of building flexible schemas, and how these principles apply beyond psychology.

For Mike's blog please visit: hobbolog.wordpress.com/author/michaelhobbiss/ [https://hobbolog.wordpress.com/author/michaelhobbiss/]

His book can be found here: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1915261953 [https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1915261953]

Key points from the episode:

 * Mike's background in psychology and philosophy, including his teaching experience in the UK and internationally.
 * Overview of his book, How to Teach Psychology: An Evidence-Informed Approach, and its relevance to various subjects beyond psychology.
 * Theoretical framework for effective psychology teaching, combining general learning fundamentals with subject-specific principles.
 * Pedagogical implications derived from the framework, including seven key principles for classroom practice.
 * The concept of SLOP (Shed Loads of Practice) and its emphasis on repeated and varied practice for deeper understanding.
 * The importance of understanding subject-specific nuances in teaching different disciplines.
 * The role of schemas in learning and their significance for applying knowledge flexibly in various contexts.
 * Distinction between performance and learning, highlighting the need for long-term retention and application of knowledge.
 * Use of examples and non-examples in teaching to clarify concepts and address misconceptions.
 * The value of engaging with educators through blogs and social media to share resources and foster discussions on teaching practices.

SLOP: The Power of Repeated and Varied Practice in Education

…with Julie Kane

In today's educational landscape, supporting young people's mental health and emotional literacy is more important than ever. We know that many young people are struggling with managing their emotions and this impacts their education in a range of ways.

Julie is a third-year PhD student at Aston University, and discusses her innovative research using zines to support emotional literacy and mental health in young people. Julie shares how her background in psychology and art inspired her to develop creative workshops for primary and secondary students. We discuss the benefits of arts-based approaches, the flexibility and community-building power of zines, and the positive feedback from schools. Julie also highlights practical resources for teachers and her ongoing efforts to adapt and expand this project.

"It's like reading literacy—you can read words but not comprehend them. Emotional literacy involves both naming emotions and truly understanding them." – Julie Kane

Zelp on Breath Education: https://breathe-edu.co.uk/zelp/

Key points of the discussion:

 * Research on zines as a tool for improving emotional literacy and mental health in young people.

 * Julie's background in psychology and child development, combined with interests in art and creative expression led to this research.

 * Definition and importance of emotional literacy in understanding and expressing emotions.

 * The role of arts-based projects in enhancing mental health and providing alternative forms of expression.

 * Description and characteristics of zines as self-published materials for personal expression.

 * The collaborative and solitary aspects of zine-making and its impact on community building.

 * Implementation of zine workshops in primary schools and their structure, including psychoeducation lessons.

 * Positive feedback from children participating in zine workshops and its effects on their emotional literacy.

 * Adaptation of zine workshop materials for secondary school students and the challenges faced.

 * Resources and support for teachers to implement zine-making in educational settings, including animated videos and lesson plans.

Sign up to the newsletter: https://changingstatesofmind.com/contact-me



Zines and Emotional Literacy: A Fun and Engaging Path to Better Mental Health

With Jade Davies, Dr Ola Demkowicz, Dr Khathustshelo Muluvhu-Malanga and Dr Laura Oxley

In this final episode from the BPS Psychology of Education Setion's conference we hear from four experts on different elements of mental health in schools. We explore how social media impacts teenagers’ wellbeing, the unique mental health challenges faced by adolescent girls, effective counseling models for supporting students towards academic excellence, and the importance of teacher wellbeing. The guests share research insights and practical advice, emphasising the need for open conversations, systemic change, and collaborative support. Together, they highlight the complexities of mental health in education and the importance of empathetic, evidence-based approaches for both students and teachers.

Key points from the episode:

 * Mental health in schools
 * Impact of social media on young people's mental health
 * Adolescent girls' mental health challenges
 * Gender mental health gap and contributing factors
 * Counseling models to support student wellbeing
 * Teacher wellbeing and its relationship to student behavior
 * Systemic changes needed to improve mental health support in schools
 * Importance of open conversations between adults and young people regarding social media
 * Strategies for teachers to manage student conduct and support mental health
 * Collaboration among educators, parents, and institutions to enhance student support systems

Time stamps

Jade Davies: 2mins 6secs

Ola Demkowicz: 14mins 28 secs

Khathustshelo Muluvhu-Malanga: 25mins 16 secs

Laura Oxley: 32mins 34secs

 

Creating Safer Spaces: How Schools Can Foster Mental Wellbeing for All Students

...with Professor Louise Taylor and Professor Silke Paulmann

In this episode of Psychology in the Classroom, Professor Louise Taylor discusses students’ perceptions of using generative AI for assessment feedback, highlighting its benefits and the continued need for human connection in the marking and feedback process. In part two Professor Silke Pohlmann shares research on how a teacher’s tone of voice shapes students’ classroom experiences. Both conversations, recorded at the British Psychological Society’s conference, offer practical insights for educators on integrating AI thoughtfully and using voice effectively to support student wellbeing and engagement.

Subscribe to my newsletter: https://changingstatesofmind.com/contact-me

Key discussion points:

 * Students' perceptions of generative AI in formative assessment feedback.
 * Benefits and limitations of AI-generated feedback compared to human feedback.
 * The role of human interaction in the feedback process and its impact on student wellbeing.
 * Potential applications of AI in secondary education for developing writing and critical thinking skills.
 * The influence of a teacher's tone of voice on student emotions and engagement.
 * The relationship between voice tone and student behavior in the classroom.
 * Strategies for teachers to manage their voice tone effectively.
 * The use of AI tools to analyse and provide feedback on teachers' voice tones.
 * The impact of emotional susceptibility on how students perceive voice tones.
 * Practical tips for teachers to enhance communication and support student engagement through voice modulation.

Why Students Want AI Feedback but Crave Human Connection in Learning

…with Dr Charlotte Bagnall and Annie O’Brien 

In this episode, Charlotte and Annie discuss the complexities of mental health and wellbeing interventions in schools with me. We explored the challenges of evaluating these programs in real-world settings, the development of child-centered measurement tools, and the decision-making processes schools use when selecting interventions. Our conversation highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration, context-sensitive evaluation, and balancing evidence with practical realities. We agreed that while there are no easy answers, ongoing research and co-production with educators and students are essential for creating effective, sustainable mental health support in schools.

Key discussion points:

 * Discussion on mental health and wellbeing programs in schools.

 * Evaluation and measurement of school-based interventions.

 * Challenges in implementing mental health interventions in real school settings.

 * Development of new measurement tools for children's emotional wellbeing.

 * Importance of context in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.

 * Decision-making processes for selecting mental health interventions in schools.

 * Role of stakeholder collaboration in designing relevant programs.

 * Consideration of opportunity costs in intervention implementation.

 * Recognition of gradual and long-term benefits of social-emotional learning.

 * Need for qualitative feedback to inform intervention adaptations and improvements.

To hear Prof Neil Humphrey’s interview here is the link: https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/beyond-social-media-and-smartphones-factors-affecting-youth-mental-health-with-prof-neil-humphrey

 

Evaluating Mental Health in Schools: Tools, Challenges, and Collaborative Solutions for Success

...with Prof David Putwain, Dr Laura Nicholson and Mahdi Moazzen

This episode is a lively discussion with educational researchers Prof. David Putwain, Dr. Laura Nicholson, and Mahdi Moazzen. We explored how teachers’ language and message framing influence student motivation, engagement, and resilience. The conversation covered research on positive messaging in science classes, the impact of gain- versus loss-framed messages, and the role of coping strategies in academic buoyancy. We also discussed practical implications for teachers in the classroom and the potential of technology to support personal reflection and positive communication. The episode offered valuable insights into fostering student success through thoughtful, adaptive teacher messaging and support.

For David's previous interview you can listen here:  https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/where-education-and-psychology-meet

Key points:

 * Impact of teacher messaging on student motivation and engagement
 * Importance of positive, value-laden language in science education
 * Relationship between teacher messaging and students' academic resilience
 * Differences in student responses to positive versus negative messaging
 * Role of individual differences in student sensitivity to messaging
 * Coping strategies and academic buoyancy in upper secondary students
 * Distinction between positive and negative coping strategies
 * Influence of socioeconomic status and cultural factors on student perceptions
 * Need for teacher training to promote positive messaging
 * Practical implications for supporting students through academic challenges and transitions

 

 

From words to action: how teacher language shapes student success

...with Prof. Teresa Cremin.

In this episode, Professor Teresa Cremin from the Open University, an expert on reading for pleasure, talks about why encouraging children to read voluntarily is so important. We explored the academic, social, and emotional benefits of reading, discussed the challenges posed by technology and changing family habits, and highlighted the crucial roles teachers, schools, and libraries play in fostering a love of reading. Teresa shared research insights and practical strategies for building positive reader identities and creating supportive, social reading environments that inspire lifelong engagement with books.

In summary:

 * Importance of voluntary reading for children and its benefits

 * Academic, social, and emotional advantages of reading

 * Consequences of not developing reading habits on cognitive and emotional growth

 * Challenges in encouraging reading among young people

 * Role of educators and schools in promoting reading habits

 * Impact of technology and societal factors on reading preferences

 * Significance of libraries in fostering a reading culture

 * Misconceptions about reading as an individual activity versus a social practice

 * Need for diverse reading materials that reflect student interests

 * Importance of creating supportive environments for reading discussion

Find out more:

Teresa Cremin: https://profiles.open.ac.uk/teresa-cremin

Reading for Pleasure: https://ourfp.org/

 

 

 

 

The Benefits of Reading for Pleasure: Unlocking a World of Opportunities

The show that takes psychological research and translates it for classroom teachers so they can effectively apply it to their teaching practice to help improve outcomes for their students. Interviews with leading psychologists and other experts in the field of education, as well as deep dives into educational theory and a little bit of neuromyth busting.

Lucinda Powell

Shows