Module: OMO5108-20 Introduction to Teaching

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Andrew Joyce-Gibbons

Module Tutor Contact Details: a.joyce-gibbons@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to the profession of teaching, with a focus on state education in England. It will explore the skills, knowledge and values demonstrated by teachers and enable you to reflect on your own suitability and motivation to join the profession. It will enable you to explore government standards for teachers practice and conduct and explore their application in Early Years, Primary and Secondary school settings. There are many pathways to become a teacher: The module will introduce you to these (for example University based PGCE, school based and Teach First options) and support you in drafting applications for routes into teaching.

The module also provides you with opportunities to discuss your own experience of learning and teaching and to develop skills of self-reflection, which is a key dimension to professional development. You will be introduced to theories of learning and consider how these theories are enacted in classroom settings. You will explore recent developments affecting teachers and schools and consider critically the development and implementation of government policy on topical matters e.g. teacher supply, workload, diversity of the workforce and professional development opportunities.

A special feature of this module is the option to observe and experience what happens in a Primary school through two field trips. You should be prepared to travel up to one hour by public transport to reach the field trip location.

2.Outline syllabus:

The module is divided into three themes: these themes are used to structure the seminar sessions and your school placement experience.

Theme 1. Learning and Teaching

In this theme we look critically at the ways in which learners learn and teachers teach. Underpinning the theme will be theoretical perspectives on learning and debates regarding the relationship between theory and practice. The place of teachers’ subject knowledge and curriculum knowledge will also be considered. Episodes of teaching will be critically evaluated and you will have a chance to participate in ‘micro-teaching’ activities.

Theme 2. The professional teacher

Here we will explore what is expected of a ‘professional’ teacher in contemporary society. We will review competing notions of professionalism including government standards and societal expectations of teachers and explore topical issues e.g social media and technology in education, safeguarding, life-work balance and teacher well-being.

Theme 3. The school

In this theme the ways in which teachers and other professionals work together to create ‘the school’ will be examined. You will be introduced to the diversity of school types and develop an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of class teachers, teaching assistants, school leaders, governors and external agencies to ensure the school offers all children with a ‘good’ education. You will reflect on your place in the world of education and plan for next steps towards achieving your aspirations.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Teaching on the module consists of seminars, tutorials, practical activities and directed tasks during school placements or visits.

The seminars will provide you with the key ideas and theories necessary to understand the contexts and issues related to teaching in England. They will also provide you with opportunities to discuss your reading of set texts and the observations you bring from your placement and other experiences. You will be provided with opportunities and skills needed to prepare effectively for and reflect upon your placement and draft applications for further professional qualifications (eg PGCE).

Tutorials are offered to support you in the assessment tasks in the module. During tutorials, you will be able to discuss assignment feedback and respond to assessments formatively.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Contributions to on-line discussion forum (2500 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: A portfolio demonstrating your professional development (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%