How Learning Happens with Dr Carl Hendrick

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Carl Hendrick—educator, researcher, and co-author of How Learning Happens, How Teaching Happens, and Instructional Illusions. Carl shares his insights on the evolving educational landscape in Australia, the science of learning, and the myths that often mislead teachers and schools.

We explore key ideas from his books, including the “Engagement Illusion,” the importance of prior knowledge, and what is ‘learning’. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, or education enthusiast, this episode will challenge your assumptions and offer practical strategies for improving learning outcomes.

What You’ll Learn

• Carl’s thoughts of the Catalyst program and educational innovation in Australia
• How to support autonomy in learners
• The role of prior knowledge in effective teaching
• Why popular practices like “discovery learning” may harm learning outcomes
• How strong teacher-student relationships impact learning
• The difference between engagement and deep understanding
• Where technology and AI fit into modern classrooms
• How to foster creativity while maintaining cognitive rigor

Featured Books

How Learning Happens – Carl Hendrick & Paul Kirschner How Learning Happens: Seminal Works in Educational Psychology and What

How Teaching Happens – Carl Hendrick, Paul Kirschner & Jim Heal How Teaching Happens: Seminal Works in Teaching and Teacher Effectiven

Instructional Illusions – by Paul Kirschner (Author), Carl Hendrick (Author), Jim Heal (Author) Instructional Illusions | Hachette Learning

Links & Resources

Carl Hendrick’s Substack:The Learning Dispatch | Carl Hendrick | Substack

Learn more about the Catalyst program: Catalyst - Catholic Education Archdiocese of Canberra & Goulburn