Gaps in student ability ‘greatest challenge’ for teaching reading and literacy

The Primary English Teaching Association of Australia (PETAA) has released the results from its inaugural National Teaching of Reading Survey.

Surveying over 500 primary school teachers around the country, the report has found that, while teachers express high confidence in teaching literacy and reading, a wide range of student skills remain their greatest challenge in the classroom.

With the report making recommendations such as reducing administrative burdens on teachers and increasing funding for more learning support staff, experts say education systems need to evolve to provide greater assistance for teachers to enable them in their jobs.

“This report highlights that teaching reading in ways that account for the diverse needs and potential of all students remains challenging even for our most experienced and confident teachers,” said Dr Maria Nicholas, senior lecturer in language and literacy education at Deakin University. Dr Nicholas has an interest in the teaching and learning of reading, high-ability and gifted education, digital literacies and teacher education.

“It likewise highlights the need for well-established communities of practice so teachers can feel connected, and engage in collegial discussions and professional learning, to support their professional development and ward against their feeling isolated in their work.

“In the wake of teacher shortages, it remains imperative that we ensure structures are in place and sufficient resources are made available to support our teachers to meet the needs of all their students, and to know that they are valued members of the community,” said Dr Nicholas.