Issues in primary education
Dr A C Townsend
12 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have developed knowledge and understanding of the international research on primary education; how the Victorian `Schools of the Future' program affects primary schools; the role of the school charter in school development; strategies for involving parents in educational decision making; the theoretical basis for local involvement in curriculum development and staffing; using the curriculum studies frameworks; assessment issues including the Learning Assistance Program. Students should have developed skills which will enable them to develop a school charter; develop and evaluate curriculum; work with parents; justify their position on the LAP. Students should have developed values or attitudes to enable them to work positively and constructively with other members of the school community to promote school development.
Synopsis The aim of this subject is to provide a critical review of the major issues facing the Victorian primary school. Current developments in the field of primary education with reference to developments from the United Kingdom and the USA will provide a base on which to consider current and emerging practice in Australian schools. Issues include the `Schools of the Future' program, needs and aims of the modern primary school; national curricula, frameworks, and profiles; models and methods of teaching; evaluation, appraisal and accountability; locus of control - from the centre to the school and implications for teachers; research in primary classrooms.
Assessment Essay (5000 words): 70%
* Examination (2 hours): 30%
Recommended texts
Department of Education The school global budget in Victoria: Matching resources to learning needs in schools of the future Department of Education, 1994
Department of Education The 1995 school global budget: October, 1994 Department of Education, 1994
Department of Education Guidelines for developing a school charter Department of Education, 1995
Department of Education School annual report guidelines Department of Education, 1995
Fullan M Change forces: Probing the depths of educational reform Falmer, 1993
Thomas F (chair) and others Taking stock: Leading Victoria's schools of the future (Cooperative research project) Department of Education, 1995
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