How do we ensure such assessment is meaningful? We propose that the notion of dialogic learning offers a useful approach to provide evidence of teachers’ intellectual work as well as  simultaneously supporting their learning. Dialogic learning can be summarised as the systematic use of talk to “engage, […] stimulate and extend thinking […] [and] advance learning and understanding” (Alexander 2004: 37).

As neuroscience continues to flourish there is a lot to be hopeful for in how this area of research might benefit education and learning. However, there has also been a history of skepticism: can neuroscience actually help, or does it simply offer pretty pictures of brains?