module specification

This module introduces students to the teaching profession, offering an insight into key aspects of teaching as a career  - with a focus on typical practice in schools.

The module provides a critical framework to examine many of the essential elements of good practice and a range learning theories and research, exploring their application in the classroom and how and why they are important.

The module aims:

• you will gain knowledge and understanding of the teaching profession teaching as a potential career path.
• you will gain knowledge and insight that will allow you to make informed decisions regarding application to teacher training.
• you will be introduced to key readings and research that underpin the most effective practice for teachers. 
• you will explore how teachers place this theory into practice in their classrooms.
• you will explore professionalism through the Teacher Standards and how this relates to life in school.

The course will examine theories and research around how children learn most effectively. This will include elements of cognitive science of learning; the psychology of learning, including social and emotional aspects of learning.
It will also examine the practice of teaching, exploring how the theories and research can be implemented effectively and some of the barriers and challenges faced by teachers in schools.
The course will also offer an opportunity for all students to experience taking on the role of a teacher, through approximations of practice such as micro-teaches.
Students will gain an understanding of the variety of routes into teaching and how to make a successful application to teacher training courses.

The module will be taught through lectures and interactive workshops, including group activities, seminars, discussions and independent study.

Sessions will normally require an element of pre-reading and preparation, with follow-up activities. At times, groups will be required to work independently between sessions, to develop presentations, micro-teaches and to undertake research.

Given the practical elements to the module, it will not lend itself to a blended learning approach.

On successful completion of the module, you will

1. understand key aspects of theory and research that underpin effective classroom teaching and current challenges for teachers in urban settings.

2. be able to discuss critically the implementation of aspects of effective pedagogy and classroom practice.

3. understand professionalism and the key elements of professional behaviour required of teachers

4. be able to make informed decisions about teaching as a potential career path, and the options open to you, if you want to become a teacher.

5. understand the potential appeal and challenges offered by teaching as a profession.

Core and additional reading are indicated on the SS5K70 Reading List. This includes key texts used by the teaching profession and information from key websites including Department of Education, Education Endowment Fund, Chartered College of Teachers.