Decision Making with Dr Matt Agnew

Date: Wednesday 18 February
Time: 10am – 10:45am

How do we stay connected when our opinions pull us apart? Join scientist and edutainer Dr Matt Agnew for an interactive digital event centred on his new book, The Kids' Guide to Speaking Your Mind Without Losing Your Cool.

During this session students will explore bias, the importance of different perspectives, how to engage in discussions with others and build their critical thinking skills. Supported by the MoAD learning team, students will have the opportunity to participate in engaging activities, as well as a Q&A session with Matt.

The Kids' Guide to Speaking Your Mind Without Losing Your Cool

Help sharpen up your child's thinking and debating skills with this fun and engaging book that includes imaginative activities to encourage cool, calm and rational thinking, from one of Australia's most popular scientists. 

How do we end up with different ideas and opinions? How can we talk about these ideas and opinions to each other even when we disagree? 

Such as: 

• When I read, see or hear something, how do I know if it's true or false?
• What if I'm right and my friend's wrong? How do we stay friends?
• Is it okay to change my mind? 

Matt explains how to avoid confirmation bias and 'us' vs 'them' thinking, and how to stay calm and show respect to others in the heat of an argument, along with tips on how to debate like a pro! Included are thought experiments to do at home or in the classroom that will help kids speak their mind without losing their cool.

About Dr Matt Agnew

Dr Matt Agnew is more than a scientist; he's an edutainer who helps to make science, maths and technology fun and accessible for everyone. With academic credentials spanning the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) portfolio, myriad appearances across a variety of media channels, and a social media profile for reaching a wide and varied audience, Matt is a qualified, passionate and engaging scientist and edutainer.

To find out more visit Matt's website.