GEC4511

Contemporary issues and challenges in education

Associate Professor L G Cairns

8 points
* First semester
* Gippsland/Distance

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have a thorough appreciation of a range of contemporary issues in education across a range of educational sites, modes and levels; developed an understanding of the significance of many of the contemporary issues against a societal backdrop and how educational issues pervade and interact with a range of broad social issues at any time; carefully considered the challenges to those participating in educational endeavours (whatever the level or context) of a range of contemporary issues; presented a detailed analysis and discussion from research, reading and reflection on at least two contemporary issues in education; developed a base for more specialised examination of issues with a more specific focus and/or subject specificity in later study.

Synopsis This subject presents a range of contemporary issues in education and seeks to have students explore the relevance, the details, the debate and the challenges for educational thinking, institutions, curriculum and evaluation inherent in the issues. Issues will be drawn across a range of levels of educational activity and fields of schooling as well as other education sites. Whilst the range of content is broad it is argued that the contemporary issues raised and dealt with are vital concerns for all serious students of education whatever their specialisation, level or current occupation. The hallmark of effective study at this level of professional education is a good grasp of the broad issues in the field as well as specialised knowledge.

Assessment Written report (2000 words): 50%
* Video or audio tape (one half-hour program): 50%