Professional Practice and Seminar (EC) 1 (EDUC90703)

The Professional Practice and Seminar Program focuses Teacher Candidates on the nexus that exists between the theory and practice of teaching. It offers an integrated approach that draws together the content introduced in academic subjects offered throughout the semester and addresses the Teacher Candidates’ developing understandings of pedagogical and professional knowledge, practice and engagement. This subject is the vehicle for practical experience in preschool and primary school settings where placements support developing understanding of the organization of the field, child characteristics, and principles of teaching and learning. This subject draws on contemporary educational theory and research to equip Teacher Candidates as they build a range of effective teaching and learning strategies.

Teacher Candidates develop their capacity to observe children with an understanding of their stage of development and individual learning needs. They take graduated responsibility for the planning, implementation and assessment of learning experiences for children based on their observations, children’s identified interests, the National Quality Framework and Graduate Teacher Standards. Teacher Candidates acquire an understanding of preschool settings and primary schools as organizations that serve the wider community.

The Professional Practice Seminars, which are timetabled throughout the semester, are designed to support the Teacher Candidates’ ongoing learning about how theory informs practice as well as the importance of critical reflection for teaching and professional growth.