James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2019

ED5955 - Learners and Learning in Secondary School Contexts

Credit points: 03
Year: 2019
Student Contribution Band: Band 1
Administered by:

The primary goal of this subject is to foster GSTs understanding of learners and the learning process within the secondary school context. GSTs will examine the philosophical antecedents of theoretical models of development and learning and critically apply the most empirically established models explaining human development and behaviour. GSTs will examine current research and basic understanding of intelligence, motivation, special needs, well-being (including mental health issues, bullying, and domestic violence) and recent neuroscience related to learning and development. In order to interpret course concepts critically, GSTs will engage and reflect on constructivist, behaviourist and humanistic approaches to learning. Upon completion of this subject, through the professional knowledge acquired and professional practice experiences provided, GSTs will be able to approach the art and science of teaching with expertise in diverse learning contexts and for diverse learners, with attention to planning, behaviour support, assessment and management and with an awareness of contemporary issues identified as significantly impacting on student well- being. They will have reflected on the dispositions necessary to engage in professional practice in curriculum, and teaching and learning design to enhance the experience of their students. Using expert specialised technical skills elaborated through this subject, the GST will be able to independently and ethically research, apply and critically evaluate new and established theories and their utility to diverse teaching practices and learners. As a result, they will be better equipped to respond appropriately to diverse learners and to enhance their academic and social outcomes. Associated with this subject are 15 days of practicum in a secondary school in which GSTs complete a range of activities introducing them to the elements of the Graduate Teacher APST, grounded especially in the foundations of educational, social and developmental psychology.

Learning Outcomes

Assumed
Knowledge:
Introductory subject in educational psychology, so no previous knowledge of the field assumed
Prerequisites:N/A
Corequisites:N/A
Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
ED5950

Availabilities

Townsville, , Study Period 1
Census Date 28-Mar-2019
Contact hours:
  • 18 hours - Web-based supported learning
  • 3 hours - Professional Experience briefings - Week 1, 6 & 11
  • 18 hours - Web-based lectures and tutorials
  • 15 days
Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); research project (50%); quiz (10%).
Special Assessment Requirements:In order to meet the requirements of this subject, graduate student teachers must satisfactorily complete 15 days of professional experience. GSTs will complete a range of activities, detailed in the professional experience handbook, including collecting data on students to inform lesson planning. Collectively, these activities will provide evidence that GSTs have been introduced to the APSTs and these are documented in the professional experience report.

Cairns, , Study Period 1
Census Date 28-Mar-2019
Contact hours:
  • 18 hours - Web-based supported learning
  • 3 hours - Professional Experience briefings - Week 1, 6 & 11
  • 18 hours - Web-based lectures and tutorials
  • 15 days
Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); research project (50%); quiz (10%).
Special Assessment Requirements:In order to meet the requirements of this subject, graduate student teachers must satisfactorily complete 15 days of professional experience. GSTs will complete a range of activities, detailed in the professional experience handbook, including collecting data on students to inform lesson planning. Collectively, these activities will provide evidence that GSTs have been introduced to the APSTs and these are documented in the professional experience report.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.