As part of the Science of Language and Reading (SOLAR) team, Professor Forwood is passionate about language and literacy.
“Understanding how students learn to read is critical for all teachers. Language underpins literacy, and strong literacy skills support students' academic, social-emotional and behavioural outcomes during and beyond school.”
Professor Forwood creates spaces where students feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes and grow.
“It is important for me to model learning and demonstrate a willingness to be vulnerable. Sometimes students ask questions that I cannot answer, which I acknowledge and then follow up. I bring an energy to my interactions and a determination to provide the best learning conditions for all my students. This means designing curriculum that is robust and relevant.”
“It is also about being responsive to the needs of students and communicating in ways that say 'I see and hear you'.”
Most of all, she gains immense satisfaction from seeing the individual growth of her students.
“It’s a privilege to support students as they make sense of new learning and gain confidence applying it. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students engaging in rigorous discussion, confronting the unfamiliar, or sharing the excitement of implementing evidence-based practices in their classrooms.”
In addition to her role at La Trobe, Professor Forwood is the Director of Research and Design at Camberwell Girls Grammar School. She has authored a range of teaching resources, including the award-winning STEM Investigations.
