Professional Studies

Description

Professional Studies is a compulsory course for all Graduate Diploma students. The course addresses essential aspects of teaching and learning through five major themes. The first theme, Learning and Teaching, addresses the planning and preparation for teaching. Teaching strategies are also developed with a focus on effective communication and interaction in the classroom. The second theme, Class Management, addresses specific management strategies for both prevention and correction of student behaviour. These strategies are then developed into a range of approaches for different classroom contexts. The Maori Studies theme provides an introduction to Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Maori and aims to develop confidence in bicultural practice appropriate for beginning teachers. The fourth theme, Safe and Inclusive Classrooms, addresses issues of student diversity and equity of educational achievement. The final theme, the Professional Role of the Teacher, addresses issues related to the professional roles and responsibilities of teachers within classrooms and schools.