EDF3005

Diversity of learners ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr M Plunkett

Offered:
Gippsland Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit provides a framework for students to understand the complexity of personhood due to the diversity of socio-cultural backgrounds, interests and talents now common in society. As future educators and leaders of a diversity of adolescent learners, students will be introduced to a range of perspectives and world-views thereby challenging the Western-centric notions of learners and schooling. Particular foci include indigenous learners, gifted learners and learners with special needs and the implications of this range of diversity for educational settings.

Objectives: As a result of studying this unit, students are expected to: 1. be able to articulate their teaching philosophy within an awareness of the complexity of the relationship between learners, learning and teaching 2. be aware of the impact of culture and environment (rural/urban) on learning and schooling 3. recognise limits of Western-centric notions of learning and schooling and the importance of viewing the world from various perspectives including those of indigenous learners and atypical learners (gifted, special needs). 4. be able to select and justify skills and strategies of teaching applicable to different learning and teaching situations recognise the assumptions which inform their own curricula design and pedagogic reasoning.

Assessment: Written Assignment (2000 words) 50% + Examination (2 hours) 50%

Contact Hours: 2 hours per week

Prerequisites: EDF1301 or EDF1303, EDF1302 or EDF1304, EDF2003, and EDF3002