GED0517

Methods and practice of teaching geography

Mrs Jennifer Brown

12 points - 2-3 hours per week - Full-year subject - Clayton - Prerequisites: Two years geography at tertiary level

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should, within the context of geography, be able to assess the prior knowledge, motivations and interests of their students; use skilfully a variety of teaching strategies; know when each strategy is appropriate to a particular class or topic; combine strategies to produce effective learning situations; plan lessons, units and courses of study which are relevant to various student groups; evaluate the outcome of their teaching, both formally and informally.

Synopsis This subject focuses on the contribution geography can make to the education of secondary students whether as a separate subject or as an element of a more integrated curriculum, eg within the framework of 'Studies of society and the environment' (SOSE). The aim is to introduce students to a variety of ways of approaching teaching and learning in geography and to enable them to access a range of resources and technologies in order to allow them to develop meaningful learning experiences for their students.

Assessment A precondition for a pass in this method is a pass in practice teaching and 80% attendance at all timetabled classes. A satisfactory level of achievement is also required for each of the following tasks - Satisfactory completion of fieldwork assignment, resources preparation and unit of work: 50% - Satisfactory completion of practicum: 50%

Recommended texts

Fien J and others (eds) The geography teachers' guide to the classroom 2nd edn, Macmillan, 1989
Interaction (Journal of the Geography Teachers' Association of Victoria published quarterly. Student membership of GTAV is available at reduced rates.)
Victorian Board of Studies Curriculum and standards framework: Studies of society and environment VBOS, 1995

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