Rate My Professor Leigh Disney

As a mixed-methods researcher, Disney investigates early years mathematical learning and the effects of digital technologies in early childhood educational contexts. He contributes to the Mathematics pillar of the Conceptual PlayLab research project at Monash University. His publications include “Above, below, or equal? Exploring teachers’ pedagogical positioning in a playworld context to teach mathematical concepts to preschool children” (with Liang Li), “Investigating young children’s social interactions during digital play” (Early Childhood Education Journal, 2022, with Gretchen Geng), “Young children’s mathematics problem solving in playworld” (2023), “Studying children’s motives in mathematical problem-solving during transition from kindergarten to school: A Conceptual PlayWorld approach” (2024), and the edited book “Your Guide to Wellbeing at University” (2023). Additional works address pre-service teachers’ stress and the support provided by the Australian Education Union during the pandemic. Disney coordinates units such as EDF5775 Advanced play and pedagogy in early childhood settings and EDF5850 Early childhood and primary science. His teaching approach prioritizes deep connections with students, building their confidence and sense of belonging to empower preservice teachers to recognize children as competent learners capable of effecting change. Graduates have applied these principles successfully, including in early childhood science education in China.