Leon is a Professor in the School of Education.
Background
Professor Leon Benade established a strong national reputation in New Zealand in Learning Environments research and as a result, developed several Australasian and international networks in this area of work. His research has explored the influence of 21st-century learning imperatives on teachers and principals, transitions in teaching practices, pedagogy in ILE, and the role of parental and community voice in establishing these learning environments. Additionally, Leon also engages in critical work through his philosophical and policy inquiries within the field of education.
Leon’s academic publications include numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, sole-authored books and co-edited books. He strives to make a meaningful impact in the field of education by contributing to the ongoing discourse on educational theory and practice. Leon is committed to driving positive change in the field and empowering educators to create an impactful learning experience for students.
Professor Leon Benade’s wide Masters and Doctoral level supervision experience includes studies in learning environments, health practice, youth perspectives, and, presently, sustainability education and education policy in rural Colombian communities.
Current teaching
- RES6101 - Research Preparation: Methods of Research
- EDU4260 - Transition to Teaching
- EDU6460 - Transition to Teaching
- EDU6310 (AC5) - Inquiry Based Practice
- EPA6160 - Leading Education in a Global Context
Professional associations
- 2023 - present - Learning Environments Australasia (Member)
- 2018 - present - Australian Association for Research in Education (AARE) (Member)
- 2017 - Learning Environments New Zealand (LENZ) (Member)
- 2014 - 2020 - New Zealand Journal of Educational Studies (NZJES) (Member of the Editorial Board 2014 - 2017; Co-Editor 2018 - 2020)
- 2014 - present - New Zealand Journal of Teachers' Work (NZJTW) (Co-Editor 2014 - 2021; Member of the Editorial Board Jan 2022 - present)
- 2013 - 2023 - Philosophy of Education Society of Australasia (PESA) (Member; Executive Committee Secretary 2015 - 2017)
- 2013 - present - New Zealand Association for Research in Education (NZARE) (Member)
Awards and recognition
National and international awards
- 2017 - Winner Auckland University of Technology Faculty of Culture and Society Emerging Researcher Award
- 2017 - Finalist Auckland University of Technology Research Excellence Award
University and National Teaching Awards
- 2016 - Winner Auckland University of Technology Faculty of Culture and Society Innovation in Teaching and Learning Award
National and international research awards
- 2021 - Marsden Fund: Māori Flexible Learning Spaces (FLS) for supporting Mātauranga Māori and biculturalism in schools (Co-Investigator)
Research areas and interest
- Theory and philosophy of education
- Education policy
- Teachers' work
- Innovative learning Environments