EDF4250 - Understanding classroom relationships

Leader: Dr J Ryan (Clayton; Gippsland)

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit will further develop students' skills and understanding of positive learning environments and effective classroom management. The unit will focus on understanding classroom relationships and the connection between learning and behaviour, and positive learning environments and relationships. It will cover the causes of challenging behaviours and ways to respond in preventative and reactive, and ethical and professional, ways. Students will examine their own beliefs about classroom relations and develop strategies to respond to the learning needs of students with potentially challenging behaviours and to better manage the situations that can give rise to such behaviours.

Objectives

In the process of studying this unit students are expected to:

1. understand the relationship between positive learning environments and relationships and classroom behaviour;
2. examine their own beliefs about classroom relations and professional and ethical issues surrounding their interactions with students;
3. understand the medical, ecological, organisational and relationship factors that can influence students' learning and behaviour;
4. develop an awareness of the affects on learning and behaviour of conditions such as learning disabilities, learning difficulties, mental health conditions and conduct disorders;
5. understand the impact of these on students' cognitive, social and emotional well-being;
6. develop a repertoire of effective behaviour management strategies including problem-solving and relationship-building skills with students; and
7. learn to work effectively with students, their families and other professionals in meeting the broader needs of students.

Assessment

A Case Study (1,500 words; 40%) and a Project Plan (2,500 words or equivalent; 60%).

Contact hours

2 hours contact per week or equivalent