Inquiry as a Way of Being: A Conversation with Kath Murdoch
In this deeply reflective and energising episode, Kaz and Andy sit down with internationally renowned inquiry educator Kath Murdoch to explore the heart of authentic learning. From her early days as a “baby teacher” to becoming a global thought leader in inquiry-based education, Kath shares stories, wisdom, and provocations that challenge us to rethink what it means to teach and learn.
Key Topics Covered:
- Kath’s early teaching influences and education heroes, including Donald Graves and Jo Parry.
- Her journey from classroom teacher to university academic and consultant.
- The power of singing and animals in her first classroom.
- Reflections on her blog post, The Balance Trap and the tension between inquiry and direct instruction.
- The importance of trust in educators, students, and relationships.
- The difference between explicit teaching and direct instruction.
- Teaching as a creative act of service, not just a job.
- How curriculum can be a friend, not a foe, in inquiry-based learning.
- Stories of inspiring educators who integrate curriculum and student agency.
- The image of the teacher and the child in inquiry learning.
- Kath’s personal reflections on curiosity and the enduring child within.
Memorable Quotes:
- “True teaching isn’t telling. True teaching is listening.”
- “Teaching is not just a job—it’s a vocation and an act of service.”
- “We are like Russian dolls—all the ages we’ve ever been are still inside us.”
- “Close your laptop. Get off your throne. Sit in a circle. Go off script.”
Takeaways for Educators:
- Inquiry is not a method—it’s a mindset.
- Authentic learning begins with curiosity, agency, and relationships.
- Curriculum should be deeply understood and used as a conceptual framework.
- Teachers are designers of learning, not deliverers of content.
- Students are not just learners—they are teachers too.
Special Thanks: To Kath Murdoch for her generosity, insight, and continued advocacy for authentic, inquiry-driven education.
Resources Mentioned:
- Kath Murdoch’s blog: https://www.kathmurdoch.com.au
- Books: Getting Personal with Inquiry, The Power of Inquiry
- Donald Graves – Writing: Teachers and Children at Work
- Jo Parry – Adventures in Thinking
Subscribe & Follow: Don’t forget to subscribe to Only Learning in the Building wherever you get your podcasts. Stay curious, keep learning, and remember: you’re only learning when you end with more questions than you do answers.
Connect with Kath:
Website: https://www.kathmurdoch.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kath-murdoch-3714b23a/?originalSubdomain=au
Instagram: Kath Murdoch (@kjinquiry)
Hosts:
- Kaz (Host)
- Andy (Director & Producer)
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