Garth Boomer was a transformative figure in Australian education, leaving a lasting legacy in curriculum development and pedagogy. His journey began in Mount Barker, South Australia, where he distinguished himself academically and athletically. With a BA Honours from the University of Adelaide and a Diploma of Teaching, Boomer started his career as a teacher of English, Latin, and Mathematics in secondary schools. He quickly rose through the ranks to become South Australia's first English consultant. His experiences and insights gained further depth during a scholarship at the University of London, where he earned a Master of Education in 1973, a period that profoundly influenced his passion for language and learning.
A Pioneer in Curriculum and Teacher Development
Upon his return to Australia, Boomer served in various influential roles, including education officer, school inspector, and director of the Wattle Park Teacher Centre in Adelaide. His work significantly impacted curriculum and teacher development, both nationally and internationally. By 1984, Boomer had become the director of the National Curriculum Development Centre in Canberra and later chaired the Commonwealth Schools Commission. His contributions continued when he returned to South Australia in 1988 as the Associate Director General of Education Curriculum. Boomer was an active member of the Australian Association for the Teaching of English (AATE) and the International Federation for the Teaching of English, where his ideas and practices were widely recognised and celebrated.
Champion of Collaborative Learning and Democratic Classrooms
Boomer was an advocate for pragmatic yet radical approaches to education, which balanced fiscal realities with social justice and educational reform. He believed in the power of collaborative learning and democratic classrooms, where teachers are seen as intellectuals who continually refine their practices. His approach emphasised the role of teachers as designers and instigators of learning, responding to the needs of their students rather than relying on commercial programs. Boomer's influential works, such as The Spitting Image and Negotiating the Curriculum, continue to inspire educators. These texts advocate for a classroom environment where students have a voice in their learning process, encouraging them to engage more deeply with the material.
Lasting Legacy in South Australia
Boomer's legacy is particularly strong in South Australia, where the University of South Australia's Education Faculty Building is named in his honour. Littlehampton Primary School, which he attended, celebrates his contributions through the Garth Boomer Resource Centre, a vibrant space for teaching and learning. The school also presents the Garth Boomer Award annually to students who excel in writing, fostering a continued connection to his educational philosophy. A poem written by Boomer is displayed in the centre, known by many of the students, highlighting his enduring influence on the school community.
Influence on Teachers and Students
Boomer's ideas continue to shape teaching practices. His article "In Search of a Universal Literacy Program," published in 1983, remains a pivotal read for educators. The article challenges the notion of using one-size-fits-all commercial programs, instead advocating for teachers to act as responsive designers of learning experiences. Boomer outlined ten learning principles to empower teachers, providing practical classroom strategies. These ideas have inspired many educators, including those who have incorporated them into literacy teaching and multimedia projects, leading to opportunities for students to showcase their work at international conferences.
The Power of Professional Learning
Dr. Mike Dilena, who worked alongside Boomer, recalls the profound impact of their collaborative efforts in South Australia. The state's education system became a beacon of innovative literacy practices, attracting attention from educators worldwide. The focus was on creating environments where students could thrive through exploration and self-expression. This approach was exemplified in projects like the Graduate Diploma in Literacy and Language, which brought together a diverse group of passionate educators to develop new teaching methodologies.
The Writing Revolution
One of the most significant contributions Boomer, Dilena and colleagues, made was in promoting the "writing revolution." Inspired by their experiences in the United States with educators like Donald Graves, they helped introduce new strategies for teaching writing. These strategies emphasised students' authority over their own narratives, encouraging them to write about their personal experiences. This approach not only improved literacy skills but also fostered a love of writing among students.
A Collaborative Approach to Teacher Development
Boomer's work with teacher development programs, like the Literacy and Learning in the Middle Years (LLIMY) project, showcased his belief in the importance of professional learning. The project brought together experienced teachers to explore child development, language understanding, and children's literature. This collaborative approach allowed teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately benefiting their students.
Conclusion
Garth Boomer's influence on education, particularly in South Australia, remains significant. His ideas on collaborative learning, democratic classrooms, and the importance of writing continue to inspire educators. His legacy is a reminder of the power of innovative teaching and the impact of dedicated professionals in shaping the future of education. As we reflect on his contributions, it is clear that Boomer's vision for a more inclusive, responsive, and student-centred educational system remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.
Listen to the podcast: Education Great: Garth Boomer
TEACHIFIC RESOURCES
- In Search of a Universal Literacy Program - by Garth Boomer
- Practical Steps to Take in the Literacy Classroom - based on the ideas of Garth Boomer