Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit focuses on issues related to educational curricula. Students will use multiple perspectives gained through studying a range of theoretical literature which they will be able to use to critically navigate through various contemporary issues regarding the curriculum. The implications for the curriculum will concurrently involve pedagogy in relation to educative experiences. Unit learning and assessment tasks will require students to draw on the knowledge and understanding they have already developed about teaching and learning and extend these with a more theoretical understanding of education. Not all teaching and learning are educative and so students will learn the nature of criteria which can be drawn upon to make this distinction. This unit will incorporate a 5 day professional experience placement in a secondary school setting where students will usually work in 'buddy' pairs with another student.

Objectives

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

• understand the philosophical, political, cultural, intellectual and creative dimensions of educators' work,
• relate theories of education regarding the curriculum to critically engage with issues of education practices,
• examine a range of issues and dilemmas for educators in contemporary contexts;
• explore educative approaches to designing curricula that engage a diverse range of learners in order to create experiences which are specifically educative,
• develop an awareness of the operation of schools and the culture of classrooms including the various dimensions, dynamics and perspectives within and beyond classrooms in different contexts which affect the curriculum and professionalism of educators, and
• be aware of the complexities of political interests and how these relate to the identity of educators as professionals .

Fieldwork

There is to be five (5) days of professional fieldwork associated with completing this unit.

Assessment

Minor assessment task 40% (1600 word equivalent), written assignment 60% (2400 words).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Scott Webster

Contact hours

2 hours contact per week

Prerequisites

Usually EDF1303 and EDF1304

Prohibitions

EDF2001 Beyond the Classroom