I'm a
Distinguished Professor (Cognitive Psychology) in the School of Education at La
Trobe University (Bendigo campus) and Co-Director of the Science of Language and Reading (SOLAR) Lab.
As a registered psychologist who qualified originally in speech-language
pathology, both disciplines strongly inform my research, as do my seven years
working in public health research and teaching, and seven years as coordinator
of a postgraduate program for primary and secondary teachers, concerning high
prevalence mental health problems.
My research passion is language and literacy competence - primarily as this pertains to
vulnerability / disadvantage in early life. I am particularly interested in promoting evidence-based
practice in education and allied health, and in supporting practitioners in all disciplines to spot and avoid
pseudoscience in their work.
Much of my current research focus is on the early language-to-literacy
transition and ways in which this is best supported in early years classrooms.
I have also carried out extensive research in the youth justice, child
protection, and alternative education systems.
Views expressed are my own. I welcome comments and the opportunity to be shaped
by the views of others.
I co-authored (with Dr Caroline Bowen AM) this 2026 text for parents, educators, and clinicians:
Evidence-based support for children and young people with additional needs: The Roadmap
You can also find me:
