Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Unit one promotes self-and-other awareness and positions emotional preparedness as foundational to school leadership. It engages aspirant school leaders in personal and professional growth according to principles and practices of adult learning and development. Collaborative reflective practices examine cognitive and emotional meaning making systems in dynamic learning communities. A range of sources and learning modalities feature educational philosophy and learning theory issues. Durable bridges between practice and theory support the development of practical needs assessments and preliminary planning for school wide change projects.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to: 1) Complete regular reflective journal submissions that demonstrate considered and integrated personal, scholarly and professionally constructed meanings that use the appropriate reflective writer's content and 'voice' and culminates in a formal personal growth plan (4000 words) [Objective 1 & 2] ; 2) Work self-directedly and collaboratively with peers to create a workshop/discussion project pertaining to unit topics-such as adult development models, emotions of leadership, educational philosophical documents, professional development for teachers, learning theories etc.- for use in face to face and online modalities. Presentation 'notes' including handout summary and interactive materials and online participation - (1500 words) [Objectives 2 & 3].

Based on study of extant research and readings on professional development planning and in response to school characteristics in student's professional setting, report on one relevant article and collaboratively develop a draft needs assessment for school wide application to determine professional learning needs of teachers and document collaboration notes from liaison with professional mentor and professional teacher colleagues. 2500 word report not including needs assessment document. [Objectives 2,3,4,5].

Assessment

Reflective writings culminating in personal growth plan (Equivalent to 4000 words) ( Objectives 1 and 2 ): 50%
Workshop delivery on course topic (Equivalent to 1500 words) (Objectives 2 and 3 ): 20%
Progress report on school wide change project (Equivalent to 2500 words) (Objectives 2, 3, 4, and 5 ): 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Philip Riley

Contact hours

3 hrs per week