PED6972 - Educational Debates

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Understand and critically reflect on factors which influence educational practices and curriculum design;
Interpret and contrast educational concepts, theories and issues of policy in a systematic way;
Critically reflect on their own and others' professional value systems, using scholarly knowledge and understanding to justify their professional position;
Identify and evaluate policy implications for educational practices in diverse contexts and the impact on meeting the needs of all learners.

Content:

This module aims to make students critically aware of current and key issues affecting primary education. It is flexible to respond to these but also proactive in identifying the salient issues for primary teachers.

Indicative content includes: the changing nature of schools and the different types of schools in the UK system. Students will synthesise international evidence on successful school systems and school reform. They will critically appraise different pedagogical models of teaching and interrogate the evidence of 'high quality teaching' and the science of learning. They will understand what determines evidence-based teaching and how to embed research into their pedagogical toolkit. The module examines the wider role of teachers in the 21st century, enabling their development in critical reflection, professional learning and teacher leadership

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module is grouped into themes that are introduced by lead lectures. Each is followed up by seminars to develop deeper understanding. Teaching and learning modes that follow include directed reading, guided discussions, workshop tasks and group presentations in relation to each theme. The latter are designed to provide formative assessment opportunities which lead students towards the formal assessment of the module.

Lectures
Hours: 16
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Workshops and seminars
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: 40

Guided independent study
Hours: 164

Further details relating to assessment
A 10-minute group presentation will take place mid-module. Self and peer assessment of each presentation will inform a 2,000-word individual critical evaluation of the presentation.

Other relevant matters
This module will develop students' understanding of aspects of professional practice in regard to evidencing the following Teachers' Standards (DfE, 2012):

1. Set high expectations which inspire, motivate and challenge pupils
2. Promote good progress and outcomes by pupils
5. Adapt teaching to respond to the strengths and needs of all pupils
8. Fulfil wider professional responsibilities

Assessment:

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Jonathan Doherty
Level - 6
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered -

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