EDP3701

Practicum studies B

Lecturer-in-charge to be advised

6 points - 2 hours per week plus practicum of 30 days in primary schools - First and second semester subject - Peninsula - Prerequisite: EDP2701

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to undertake teaching responsibilities and practise basic teaching skills in senior level grades for daily periods ranging from two hours to two weeks in duration; discuss and compare their practicum experiences with the experiences of other students, reflecting on the teaching and class management styles they have encountered, exploring why teachers utilise different approaches and strategies; demonstrate in a simulated school situation familiarity with current operational policies and practices; demonstrate knowledge of the law as it affects their teaching role, and the circumstances where they are obliged to report on the welfare of children.

Synopsis In first semester students will focus upon issues relating to the preparation and presentation of a 'school manual'. Among topics to be considered will be school procedures; preparing information for the school community; student progress reports and reporting to parents; school rules and regulations; work programs and timetables. Students will also be exposed (in a simulated setting) to critical problems affecting pupils, teachers, parents and administrators, providing students with the opportunity to propose hypothetical resolutions. In second semester, the program will address issues relating to the legal obligations of teachers, including their liability for injury to children; duty of care issues in the school and whilst on excursions; education negligence; issues of confidentiality; copyright issues and the relationship of teachers to law enforcement authorities. The current laws relating to mandatory reporting will be considered, leading on to consideration of the circumstances requiring teachers to report suspected cases of child abuse and the evidence underlying the requirement to report.

Assessment Practicum: 40% - School handbook submission (including debate and resolution of critical problems: 30% - Examination: 30% - Eighty per cent attendance - Hurdle: satisfactory standard in all assessment tasks

Recommended texts

Edwards J (ed.) Australian schools and the law LBC Information Services, 1997
Ramsay I M and Shorten A R Education and the law Butterworths, 1996
Tronc K and Sleigh D Australian teachers and the law Butterworths, 1989
School handbooks supplied by: Balnarring primary school; Frankston Heights primary school; Kananook primary school; Langwarrin Park primary school
Victorian Board of Studies Curriculum and standards framework series VBOS, 1995

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