Session 2 Learning and Teaching Update
The decision has been made to conduct study online for the remainder of Session 2 for all units WITHOUT mandatory on-campus learning activities. Exams for Session 2 will also be online where possible to do so.
This is due to the extension of the lockdown orders and to provide certainty around arrangements for the remainder of Session 2. We hope to return to campus beyond Session 2 as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Some classes/teaching activities cannot be moved online and must be taught on campus. You should already know if you are in one of these classes/teaching activities and your unit convenor will provide you with more information via iLearn. If you want to confirm, see the list of units with mandatory on-campus classes/teaching activities.
Visit the MQ COVID-19 information page for more detail.
Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Convenor
Rebecca Andrews
Contact via via iLearn dialogue
29 Wallys Walk Room 277
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Credit points |
Credit points
20
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Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
ECHX825 or ECEX825 or ECHX8250
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Corequisites |
Corequisites
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Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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Unit description |
Unit description
This unit enables students to refine their roles as early childhood teachers. During the internship, students will have opportunities to strengthen their autonomy and independence as a teacher of young children as they explore their role within the centre and its local community. With increasing confidence, students will be able to justify their decision making as a teacher responding to the challenges of daily work in an early childhood centre. The internship contains a 30 day placement to be completed as three days a week over ten weeks. Students may complete the internship requirements in their own workplace where appropriate. All enrolment queries should be directed to Open Universities Australia (OUA). |
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
Assessment Presentation and Submission Guidelines
Please follow these guidelines when you submit each assignment: ● Allow a left and right-hand margin of at least 2cm in all assignments. ● Please type all assignments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing. ● All assessments must be submitted through Turnitin in .doc or .pdf format ● It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all assessments are successfully submitted through Turnitin. ● Faculty assignment cover sheets are NOT required.
Draft Submissions & Turnitin Originality Reports ● Students may use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit. ● Students are strongly encouraged to upload a draft copy of each assessment to Turnitin at least one week prior to the due date to obtain an Originality Report. ● The Originality Report provides students with a similarity index that may indicate if plagiarism has occurred. Students will be able to make amendments to their drafts prior to their final submission on the due date. ● Generally, one Originality Report is generated every 24 hours up to the due date.
Please note: ● Students should regularly save a copy of all assignments before submission, ● Students are responsible for checking that their submission has been successful and has been submitted by the due date and time.
Assignment Extensions and Late Penalties ● In general, there should be no need for extensions except through illness or misadventure that would be categorised as serious and unavoidable disruption according to the University definition of same, see: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/my-study-program/special-consideration ● Applications for extensions must be made via AskMQ according to the Special Consideration policy. Extensions can only be granted if they meet the Special Considerations policy and are submitted via https://ask.mq.edu.au/. This will ensure consistency in the consideration of such requests is maintained. ● Late submissions: Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, (a) a penalty for lateness will apply - 10/100 marks of credit (10% of the total assessment weighting) will be deducted per day for assignments submitted after the due date – and (b) no assignment will be accepted seven days (incl. weekends) after the original submission deadline. No late submissions will be accepted for timed assessment - e.g. quizzes, online tests. A zero result for the assignment will be recorded after the late submission period has ended if no task has been received. ● If a student is still permitted to submit on the basis of unavoidable disruption, an alternative topic may be set. ● Students should keep an electronic file of all assessments. Claims regarding "lost" assessments cannot be made if the file cannot be produced. It is also advisable to keep an electronic file of all drafts and the final submission on a USB untouched/unopened after submission. This can be used to demonstrate easily that the assessment has not been amended after the submission date.
Requesting a re-assessment of an assignment If you have evidence that your task has been incorrectly assessed against the grade descriptors you can request a re-mark. To request a re-mark you need to contact the unit convenor within 7 days of the date of return of the assignment and provide a detailed assessment of your script against the task criteria. Evidence from your assignment must be provided to support your judgements. Note: · Please do not request a re-mark for a Failed assessment as they are all double-marked as a part of the moderation process. · The outcome of a re-mark may be a higher/lower or unchanged grade. · Grades are standards referenced and effort is NOT a criterion.
University policy on grading Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. The following descriptive criteria are included for your information. Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks. Where any submitted assessment task is considered to be unsatisfactory in this regard, the highest possible final grade that can be awarded for the unit will be 45. Students will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the policy: https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/assessment-in-effect-from-session-2-2016 The following generic grade descriptors provide university-wide standards for awarding final grades.
Grade Descriptor
HD (High Distinction) Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline.
D (Distinction) Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience.
Cr (Credit) Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline.
P (Pass) Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes
F (Fail) Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline.
Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component, the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement.
Withdrawing from this unit If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your progression through the degree.
Results Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
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Professional Portfolio | 100% | No | 23.55 29/10/2021 |
Assessment Type 1: Portfolio
Indicative Time on Task 2: 120 hours
Due: 23.55 29/10/2021
Weighting: 100%
The professional portfolio is the major written assignment for ECHX8290. It will focus on the questions: What does being a teacher mean to me? Approx 9000 words.
1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:
2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation
To build an online community of practice in the iLearn site - students are expected to participate in online small group activities and to complete tasks either as individuals or in pairs. There are also discussion forums for students to discuss issues and questions arising from their internship and readings. Students are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. There is additional information in iLearn: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au
RESOURCES AND TEACHING MATERIALS
There is an expectation that you complete scholarly reading in this unit. It is an integral part of your study of unit ECHX8290.
Prescribed Text:
There is no prescribed textbook for this unit. This is a capstone unit and students are expected to read widely and build on previous readings.
It is expected that students have mastered APA referencing and get guidance by relevant resources, such as: https://libguides.mq.edu.au/referencing/APA7thEdition
Readings to get you started ... Ideally you should be reading in areas that assist your thinking and reflection from your internship.
Andrews, R. & Van Bergen, P. (2020). Characteristics of educators’ talk about decontextualised events. Australasian Journal of Early Childhood, 45(4), p.362-376.
Andrews, R., Van Bergen, P., & Wyver, S. (2020). Use of mental state language during educator-child and mother-child conversations about the past and future. Early Education and Development, 31(6), 838-853. doi.org/10.1080/10409289.2019.1689772
Andrews, R., Van Bergen, P., & Wyver, S. (2019). Reminiscing and future talk conversations between young children, their early childhood educators and mothers. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 49, 254-268. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecresq.2019.07.005
Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority. (2011). Guide to the national quality standard. Retrieved from https://www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/about/guide
Arthur, L., Beecher, B., Dockett, S., Farmer, S., & Death, E. (2021). Programming and planning in early childhood settings. (8th ed.). Victoria: Thomson.
Bombro, A. L., Jablon, J., & Stetson, C. (2011). Powerful interactions: How to connect with children to extend their learning. Washington D.C.: NAEYC.
Burman, L. (2009). Are you listening? Fostering conversations that help young children learn. St Paul, Minnesota: Redleaf Press.
Curtis, D., & Carter, M. (2008). Learning together with young children: A curriculum framework for reflective teachers. Minnesota: Redleaf Press.
Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations (DEEWR). (2009). Belonging, being and becoming: The early years learning framework for Australia. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.
Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations (2010). Educators belonging, being and becoming: Educators’ guide to the early years learning framework for Australia. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.
Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations (2010). The early years learning framework in action: Educators’ stories and models for practice. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.
Danby, S., Fleer, M., Davidson, C., & Hatzigianni, M. (2018). Digital Childhoods. Technology in children's everyday lives. Singapore: Springer publications.
Degotardi, S. & Han, F., 2020, Quality of educator-infant conversational interactions among infants experiencing varying quantity of linguistic output. European Early Childhood Education Research Journal, 28(5), p. 743-757
Fellowes, J., & Oakley. G. (2019) Language, Literacy and Early Childhood Education. (3rd ed.). Australia/New Zealand: Oxford University Press.
Fenech, M., Wong, S., Boyd, W., Gibson, M., Watt, H., & Richardson, P. (2021). Attracting, retaining and sustaining early childhood teachers: an ecological conceptualisation of workforce issues and future research directions. Australian Educational Researcher. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-020-00424-6
Fleet, A., Honig, T., Robertson, J., Semann, A., & Shepherd, W. (2011). What's pedagogy anyway? Using pedagogical documentation to engage with the early years learning framework. Retrieved from http://www.cscentral.org.au/Resources/what-is-pedagogy-anyway-.pdf
Giamminuti, S. (2013). "Dancing with Reggio Emilia: Metaphors for quality." Mt Victoria, NSW: Pademelon Press.
Hadley, F. & Rouse, E., 2021, Oxford bibliographies: education. Hynds, A. (ed.). New York: Oxford University Press, 13 p.
Hadley, F., & Rouse, L. (2019). Parent partnerships—does compliance influence your practice? The Spoke: http://thespoke.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/parent-partnerships-compliance-influence-practice/
James, A., & Prout, A. (Eds.). (2015). Constructing and reconstructing childhood: Contemporary issues in the sociological study of childhood. Routledge.
Jones, C., Johnstone, M., Hadley, F. & Waniganayake, M., Dec 2020, In: Australasian Journal of Early Childhood. 45, 4, p. 322-335 14 p.
Little, H., & Stapleton, M. (2021). Exploring toddlers' rituals of 'belonging' through risky play in the outdoor environment. Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood. https://doi.org/10.1177/1463949120987656
MacNaughton, G. Rolfe, S., & Siraj-Blatchford, I. (Eds.) (2010). Doing early childhood research: International perspectives on theory and practice. UK: McGraw-Hill Education.
MacNaughton, G., & Williams, G. (2009). Techniques for teaching young children: Choices in theory and practice. (3rd ed.). Sydney: Pearson Education.
McDevitt, T. M., Ormrod, J. E., Cupit, G., Chandler, M., & Aloa, V. (2013). Child Development and Education. Frenchs Forest, NSW: Pearson.
Millikan, J., & S. Giamminuti.(2014). Documentation and the Early Years Learning Framework. Australia: Pademelon Press.
NSW Department of Education and Communities. (2012). Great Teaching: Inspired Learning Discussion Paper. NSW Government.
O’Brien, M., Wade-Leeuwen, B., Hadley, F., Andrews, R., Kelly, N. & Kickbusch, S. (2018). Chapter 8: Learning to Be. In A. Ambrosetti, R. Capeness, J. Kriewaldt, D. Rorrison (Eds). Educating Teachers: Innovative Perspectives in Professional Experience. Singapore: Springer.
Patterson, C., & Fleet, A. (2011). Planning in the context of the EYLF: Powerful, practical and pedagogically sound. Research in Practice Series, 19(2), Canberra: ECA.
Powell, S.J. & Somerville, M. (2021). Preschool zombies: Embodied, socio-(re)enacted, productive spatial literacies. Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education. https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/NG6WFEWHEAFQKPWXPKPE/full?target=10.1080/01596306.2021.1941778
Sims, M., & Hutchins, T. (2011). Program planning for infants and toddlers: In search of relationships. Sydney: Pademelon press.
Sims, M., Waniganayake, M. & Hadley, F. (2019). What makes good even better? Excellent EC leadership. International Journal of Educational Management. 33 (4), p.573-586. DOI: 10.1108/IJEM-01-2018-0032
Wiltz, N. W., Watson-Thompson, O., Cawley, H. S. & Skelley, H. A. (2008). Developing and presenting a professional portfolio in early childhood education. Student Enrichment Series.
Useful journals for this unit
Australasian Journal of Early Childhood (AJEC)
Australian Journal of Research in Early Childhood Education
Childcare Information Exchange
Child Development (Top Journal in the field)
Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood (online www.triangle.co.uk/ciec)
Early Childhood Research and Practice (online http://ecrp.uiuc.edu/index.html)
Early Childhood Research Quarterly (Top Journal in the field)
European Early Childhood Education Research Journal
Early Years
International Journal of Early Childhood
International Journal of Early Years Education
International journal of teacher
Journal of Teacher Education (all levels – Top Journal)
Journal of Early Childhood Research
Young Children
Key Australian website references:
Association for Childhood Education International: http://www.acei.org
Australian Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA): http://acecqa.gov.au/
Australian Community Children’s Services (ACCS) (Previously NACBCS): http://www.ausccs.org.au
Australian Institute of Family Studies: https://aifs.gov.au/
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare: www.aihw.gov.au
Australian Association for Research in Education (AARE): https://www.aare.edu.au/
Early Childhood Australia: http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/
MyChild: http://www.mychild.gov.au/
European Early Childhood Research Blog: https://www.eecera.org/blog/
National Association for the Education of Young Childhood (American) (NAEYC) http://www.naeyc.org
Unit Web Presence
This unit has a full web presence through iLearn.
Students will need regular access to a computer and the Internet to complete this unit.
Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted here, as will other relevant unit notices and materials, including a reading template and guide to lecture note taking to assist your studies.
Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and external students especially are encouraged to use this web component. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.
Access and technical assistance
Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MQ/. You will need to enter your student username and password.
Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.
No extensions will be given for any technical issues. Allow enough time for your submissions.
Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 1800 67 4357, or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.
This unit requires students to use several ICT and software skills:
Using Turnitin
APA Style Central
This referencing guide is accessed through the Library’s Multisearch function. It provides tools and templates to assist you to correct format citations in APA 7. See: https://libguides.mq.edu.au/referencing/APA7thEdition
UNIT SCHEDULE |
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July 26 |
Week 1 |
Self Organisation - Read iLearn |
August 2 |
Week 2 |
Online Participatory Tasks |
August 9 |
Week 3 |
Internship commences Week 1 |
August 16 |
Week 4 |
Internship continues Week 2 |
August 23 |
Week 5 |
Internship continues Week 3 |
August 30 |
Week 6 |
Internship continues Week 4 Online Participatory Tasks |
September 6 |
Week 7 |
Internship continues Week 5 |
September 13 |
Recess |
Internship continues Week 6 |
September 20 |
Recess |
Internship continues Week 7 |
September 27 |
Week 8 |
Internship continues Week 8 |
October 4 |
Week 9 |
Internship continues Week 9 Online Participatory Tasks |
October 11 |
Week 10 |
Internship continues Week 10 |
October 18 |
Week 11 |
Internship makeup week for those affected by school holidays and illness. |
October 25 |
Week 12 |
Friday October 29 Professional Experience Report due to PE office Friday October 29 Professional Portfolio and Viva Voce Presentations due Online Participatory Tasks |
November 1 |
Week 13 |
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Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct
Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
School of Education Procedures In addition, the following policies and procedures of the School of Education are applicable in this unit.
Weekly/Module Based Tasks
There are tasks that are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit [and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards and/or ACECQA requirements]. Completion of tasks is expected.
Unit Expectations
● Students are expected to read weekly readings before completing tasks ● Students are expected to listen/attend lectures before completing tasks
Note: It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assignments. If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor.
Electronic Communication It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis. Communication may occur via: ● Official MQ Student Email Address ● The Dialogue function on iLearn ● Other iLearn communication functions
Passing a Professional Experience Unit
In order to pass a Professional Experience unit, students must achieve a satisfactory result for their professional experience placement AND achieve a satisfactory result overall for their academic assessment tasks (where applicable) in the unit.
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
Students must be able to present evidence of completion of the following prior to session census date (or as otherwise advised) in order to receive a placement for Professional Experience: ○ A Working with Children Check or State/ Territory equivalent. For school placements this must be verified by DoE before your first placement. Complete and email: The practicum students declaration and a copy of relevant ID documents to the department’s probity unit at least two weeks prior to the start date of your first professional experience placement. You will also need to present photo ID on your first day of professional experience. ○ Anaphylaxis training (practical and online training) (school placements only). Please note that Anaphylaxis training is only current for 2 years so students will need to update this, most probably at the start of their final year ○ Read and acknowledge agreement to abide by the DoE Code of Conduct (school placements only) ○ Child Protection Awareness Training (CPAT) (school placements only) (once only) ○ Mandatory Child Protection Training (school placements only) (annually) For more details re school placement requirements see: https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/professional-learning/pre-service-teacher-resources/induction-for-pre-service-teachers/mandatory-pre-requisites-for-pre-service-teachers-participating-. This includes completing the pre-service teacher acknowledgement: https://education.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/main-education/teaching-and-learning/professional-learning/pre-service-teacher-resources/Document2_Pre-service_teacher_Acknowledgement_October_2020.pdf
Students are responsible for ensuring that their evidence is current. Please be aware that you may need to update your training or credential during your program of study.
● A Working with Children Check or State/Territory equivalent is required by the end of Week 2 to be eligible for a placement. Students may need to withdraw from this unit if this has not been obtained in time.
● Students who are completing a unit offered by another department are expected to inform and negotiate with that unit convenor about their professional experience block dates and to discuss how that unit's requirements can be met. For some situations, it may mean that you are enrolled externally for that unit so that your attendance for tutorials for that unit is not impacted.
● Feedback from Tertiary Supervisors and/or Supervising Teachers is of a general nature. It is incumbent on the student to check the requirements of any assessments or bookwork prior to submission. ● If a Student is identified being in need of additional support for Professional Practice and/or Bookwork, the School's ‘Additional Support’ procedure will be activated and they will not be able to withdraw themselves from this Unit.
● The timing of placements can vary. For placements early in the Session, Fail grades may be approved by the University prior to the end of Session for students who do not meet the placement expectations of the Unit.
Fitness to practice requirements
● Macquarie University operates under a ‘Fitness to Practice’ model as specified in the University's Academic Progression Policy. For this Unit, this means that, when undertaking a placement, a student is declaring that they are able to demonstrate professional competence, acceptable professional behaviour, freedom from impairment, and compliance with program specific requirements needed for a student to practice properly and safely throughout their Practical, Clinical or Professional program or unit. It is the responsibility of the student to determine whether they are fit to undertake a placement. Therefore, if a student is feeling unfit to undertake a placement, they should not do so. For more information https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/academic-progression
Twice Fail Rule for Professional Experience Units
General Coursework Rule 10(7) stipulates that if a student fails a required unit twice in a professional program listed on Schedule 2, they may be permanently excluded from further enrolment in that program.
Students completing a double degree will be able to continue with their other degree program provided they meet the academic progression requirements of the Academic Progression Policy.
Students completing a single Education degree (such as the BEd) are advised to seek academic advice.
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
To be eligible to commence the block placement component of this unit, students
● Must have submitted all written assessment tasks and/or associated unit component requirements prior to the commencement of the block
● Must meet the participation requirements for the unit (Unit Convenor to define participation requirements)
● Students may not be able to commence their placement until all alleged academic honesty breaches have been investigated and concluded.
In order to meet the Professional Experience placement expectations of this unit, students must:
● attain a ‘Satisfactory’ grade for their Professional Experience Practical Work in their Evaluation Report, AND
● attain a ‘Satisfactory’ grade for their Professional Experience Folder in their Evaluation Report
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.
The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources.
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
5Rs Framework
The 5Rs Framework, developed by the School of Education at Macquarie University, is embedded throughout your teacher education course. Your use of the 5Rs Framework will help you develop the capabilities that will make your teaching career sustainable and fulfilling. In this unit, you will learn using the 5Rs framework in the following important ways:
In order to be more resilient to the stresses of the teaching environment, teachers need to be aware of, and maintain, their holistic health and sense of coherence. They need the confidence and clarity of mind to manage uncertain and complex issues and unexpected events whenever they arise in their career.
Teaching is demanding for everyone; however, it has been observed that the teachers who thrive on challenges are those who are able to draw on their personal resources and the social and structural supports around them.
Teaching is about understanding multiple and changing ecologies of learning. This encompasses individual students’ needs, the affordances of classroom spaces, student and teacher relationships, curriculums, school culture, parental expectations, community demographics and needs and expectations of the profession, and the effects of government policy.
Teachers must recognise and mediate all these elements, along with their own motivations and priorities. A reflexive approach to teaching assists in making effective and impactful decisions that ensure quality student outcomes on a daily basis.
Teaching is a relational profession. The best teachers make deep connections with their students, parents and communities. Most of us remember a great teacher, not because of what they taught, but because they were inspiring. They engaged us through the personal connections they made with us, and their recognisable care for our wellbeing and success.
When teachers graduate from university, they are far from the end of their learning journey, but rather just at the beginning.
The ongoing pursuit of learning is a mark of a quality teacher. There are always new methods and ideas to try. But in practice, learning needs are not a one-size-fits-all affair. Teachers need to identify their individual learning needs within the context of their career. Then, they can pursue that learning to the benefit of both themselves and their students.
Effective teaching practice is based on evidence. This evidence can come from their own research in the classroom and the latest academic research in learning, teaching, motivation, cognition, curriculum, technologies and spaces, to name a few. A critical understanding of data is essential, allowing it to be analysed and woven back into practice.
Data can be big or small – both types are equally important. Big data includes large-scale standardised testing, which is great for identifying unfolding trends in the teaching sector. Small data includes things like classroom assessment, which gives us details about how and why students are succeeding or failing in specific areas.
The 5Rs framework can help teachers stay focused on what’s important. It can give teachers the confidence to keep at their career, strive for personal improvement and maximise their positive impact on students.
Unit information based on version 2021.02 of the Handbook