Preston

Preston Miller, Ph.D., is an educational psychologist and associate professor of cognitive science at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. His work delves into how interactive learning environments influence critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills from childhood through to adolescence.

Samantha Green, M.Ed., is a U.S.-based School Psychologist working in Boston, Massachusetts. Samantha specializes in creating inclusive education plans for students with diverse learning needs and promoting resilience in young people. She has a keen interest in how positive school climates can enhance academic performance and social development throughout the school years. You can connect with Samantha on Twitter @EdPsychSamantha and LinkedIn. Her blog about fostering resilience in education can be found at www.greenresilienceblog.com.

In the summer of 2023, Preston embarked on a research project that aimed to transform traditional classroom settings into dynamic spaces where students could engage in collaborative projects and hands-on experiments. Working closely with educators and technologists, he developed innovative tools designed to foster deeper engagement and a more profound understanding of complex subjects. The project was piloted in several schools across Brisbane, leading to increased student participation and higher levels of enthusiasm towards learning.

Meanwhile, Samantha implemented a series of workshops in Boston's public schools, focusing on empowering teachers with strategies to support students who face challenges such as anxiety or attention difficulties. By integrating these techniques into their daily routines, teachers were able to create supportive classrooms that catered to the unique needs of each learner. This initiative not only improved the overall school environment but also led to notable advancements in both behavioral and academic outcomes among students.