Margaret Fry
Graduate (MEd Science)

Enrolling in postgraduate study was a natural progression after completing a Diploma of Education during which I developed an interest in science curriculum. My background in science and fine art focused my research on how visual stimuli engage learning in science.

Throughout my studies I was encouraged and supported by the expert staff who offered guidance in reading and provided critical appraisal of my ideas and the direction of my research. I had opportunities to participate in research groups, symposiums and conferences at which exciting curriculum developments in science education were presented and discussed.

My research work confirmed, for me, the importance of examining facets of a problem from multidisciplinary standpoints. This approach has directly impacted on the way I teach secondary school students to view science learning as an experience that develops broad individual interests and aptitudes.

Karim Noura
Graduate (MEd Mathematics)

I enrolled in the Master of Education to improve my knowledge and skills as a secondary mathematics teacher in the electronic era.

My first subject, Key Issues in Mathematics Education, has already impacted on my teaching. I have prepared and developed many practical activities for my maths students using different kinds of technology such as Graphics Calculators, Excel and Geometer’s Sketch Pad.

I wanted to study at the University of Melbourne because it has a good reputation in Australia and around the world.

The University encourages maths and science teachers to undertake further study in this domain, and has a real concern for and shows high commitment to improving teaching and learning in mathematics and science in Australian schools.

Wanty Widjaja
Recently completed PhD - Mathematics by research

I started to develop a strong interest in mathematics education when I was in high school influenced by my mathematics teachers. From then on decided to study and work in the mathematics education area. My research area looks at designing instruction to improve pre-service teachers' content and pedagogical ideas in decimal numeration in an Indonesian context. In line with the current reform effort in Indonesian mathematics education, my design tries to accommodate RME theory in the design.

I am currently holding a lecturer position in a teacher education institution in Indonesia. I hope that the research experience I gained in my PhD study will help me to contribute in strengthening mathematics education in Indonesia. Moreover, I expect to extend the collaborative work established during my study in order to contribute further to international studies in mathematics education. My thesis has been recently passed, and I am now looking forward to publishing my work.

Peter Hadji
Graduate (MEd Mathematics by research)

I completed a B. Science (majors in Pure and Applied Mathematics) and in addition I completed a Major in LOTE (Greek) as part of an Arts Degree. In the late seventies it was difficult to choose a specific profession especially if you liked the Math-Sciences and didn’t want to follow any of the Medical fields. Mathematics was my passion and so after a four year degree I decided to continue at the University of Melbourne’s Education Graduate School. I thoroughly enjoyed both the theoretical and the practical aspects of education. Being a good mathematician is not enough to convey the message to children. We need both the deep knowledge and understanding of Mathematics as well as the pedagogical foundations of how children learn.
Straight after completing my Diploma of Education, I was employed at excellent schools such as Wesley College, Lowther Hall Anglican Girls’ College, Parade College and now at Sacred Heart Girls’ College- Oakleigh. Concurrently I continued my post- graduate studies and completed a B.Ed and straight after commenced M. Ed which I discontinued due to professional and family obligations. Simultaneously my career path has gradually developed and I experienced a great number of positions of leadership in the schools that I was employed. I feel that combining academic studies and direct school experience you conquer the ins and outs of the educational arena.

My most recent research is titled “Evaluating student performance and understanding of Mathematics when teaching with Computer Algebra Systems”

Currently I am the VCE Leader of the College (something like the Head of the Senior School).I also teach Specialist Mathematics and Mathematical Methods,   Mathematics Enhancement with the University of Melbourne and heavily involved with the VCAA.
I would like to extend my career path into the most senior leadership possession in a secondary institution, may be Deputy Principal or a Principal, however by continuing my research in mathematics education and also be a classroom teacher to some capacity will provide the fundamental needs for any leader in educational institutions. Research, learn, teach, lead and administer. The cycle of a school life.