Students

EDST8280 – Contemporary Approaches to Professional Practice

2025 – Session 1, Online-flexible

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor
Associate Professor Kathleen Tait
kathleen.tait@mq.edu.au
Contact via Contact via Dialogue on the iLearn site
25B Wally's Walk Room 654
By appointment
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Admission to MSpecEd or GradDipSpecEd or MInc&SpecEd or GradDipInc&SpecEd or MEd or GradCertEd or GradDipEdStud or GradCertEdStud
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

This unit provides a comprehensive outline of careful planning strategies. Key foci include instructional goals and objectives, professional standards and rules of practice required to enable meaningful educational opportunities for diverse students. This unit focuses upon the knowledge and skills of ethical practice and professional accountability which will provide a foundation for subsequent professional practice experiences.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO1: Integrate and synthesize theory, knowledge and skills addressing contemporary approaches to professional practice.
  • ULO2: Apply professional judgement in the selection and application of evidence based pedagogical practices to solve complex problems in the education of diverse learners.
  • ULO3: Apply appropriate professional ethical standards in the implementation and documentation of educational programs.
  • ULO4: Effectively communicate complex ideas regarding program planning and implementation

General Assessment Information

Important information for all students

General Submission Information 

Please format assessments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing. 

All assessments must be submitted electronically. Turnitin plagiarism detection software is used to check all written assessments. It is the responsibility of all students to ensure that their submitted work is in a format compatible with Turnitin software for plagiarism checking. Submissions must meet the required file type and formatting specifications outlined in the assessment guidelines. Failure to submit work in an acceptable format may result in delays in processing your submission and potential penalties for non-compliance with assessment requirements. If you are unsure about the file format or have technical difficulties, it is your responsibility to seek assistance before the submission deadline. Students should be careful to check that they submit the correct file for an assessment as no re-submissions will be accepted after the due date and time, including instances where students upload an incorrect file. It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assessments. If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to contact the unit convenor. 

Students can use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit. 

Word limits are strictly applied. Work above the word limit will not be marked.  

 

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

Students should be aware of and apply the University policy on academic integrity (see: https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=3). Any student suspected of using unauthorised AI in an assignment will be referred to the Faculty of Arts Discipline Committee. Penalties can include reduced marks for an assessment, being awarded '0' for a task, failing an entire unit, being excluded from a course of study. Please see each assessment task description/rubric for expectations about AI. 

 Use of Generated Artificial Intelligence Tools (GAIT) in assignment preparation

Students should be aware of and apply the University policy on academic integrity (see: https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=3). Any student suspected of using unauthorised AI in an assignment will be referred to the Faculty of Arts Discipline Committee. Penalties can include reduced marks for an assignment, being awarded '0' for a task, failing an entire unit, being excluded from a course of study. Please see each assessment task description/rubric for expectations about AI.

Use of GAIT in EDST8280 assignment preparation

For all EDST8280 assignments, students are not permitted to use any content or ideas generated by third parties or artificial intelligence sources (i.e., GAITs) for any purpose, including summarising texts on the subject. Students may continue to use spelling/grammar checkers, e.g., Microsoft spell-check, Grammarly, and Turnitin Draft Coach; and referencing software, e.g., Endnote and Mendeley.

Engaging with GAITs for all EDST8280 assignment tasks constitutes and will be treated as a breach of academic integrity.

Special Consideration / Late Penalties 

Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, a 5% penalty (of the total possible mark) will be applied each day an assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends) (see: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/assessment-exams/special-consideration). Applications for extensions must be made via Service Connect. After the 7th day, a mark of 0 (zero) will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted. Submission time for all written assessments is set at 11:55pm. A 1-hour grace period is provided to students who experience a technical issue. This late penalty will apply to non-timed sensitive assessments (incl. essays, reports, posters, portfolios, journals, recordings etc).  

Late submission of time sensitive tasks (such as tests/exams, performance assessments/presentations, scheduled practical assessments/labs etc) will only be addressed by the unit convenor in a Special Consideration application. A Special Consideration outcome may result in a new question or topic.  

 

Marking 

All assessments are marked using a rubric. 

Marking of all assessments is moderated by the Unit Convenor. 

 

University Policy on Grading 

Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading System and University Assessment Policy.  

To attain a pass or higher grade in Professional Experience a student must obtain a satisfactory in both the Professional Experience component and a pass or higher grade in the academic component. For Professional Experience units the Professional Experience Evaluation Report is marked as Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The Macquarie Teaching Performance Assessment (MQTPA - in final WIL/PEx units) is marked as Not met, Met or Exceeds. 

 

Results 

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed because 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 Service Connect. 

 

Withdrawing from this unit 

If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via Service Connect before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact your course progression. 

Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit 

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. 

 

 

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Assignment 50% No 23:55 13/04/2025
Examination 50% No During Examination Period

Assignment

Assessment Type 1: Practice-based task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 40 hours
Due: 23:55 13/04/2025
Weighting: 50%

 

This assessment will include an assessment activity which asks students to apply theories, frameworks and concepts to authentic classroom or school-based scenarios through the completion of a plan setting out the required steps, actions and/or tactics to meet identified goals. Practice-based tasks may involve analysis of assessment results, curriculum analysis, case studies, scenario-based development of intervention strategies, addressing specific conceptual and theoretical issues of differentiated instruction and universal design for learning (Approximately 2000 words).

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Integrate and synthesize theory, knowledge and skills addressing contemporary approaches to professional practice.
  • Apply professional judgement in the selection and application of evidence based pedagogical practices to solve complex problems in the education of diverse learners.

Examination

Assessment Type 1: Examination
Indicative Time on Task 2: 25 hours
Due: During Examination Period
Weighting: 50%

 

The examination will serve as a summative assessment for the unit and will typically consist of a range of short answer questions addressing conceptual understanding and practical application of unit content. There will be a focus on scenario-based questions.

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Integrate and synthesize theory, knowledge and skills addressing contemporary approaches to professional practice.
  • Apply appropriate professional ethical standards in the implementation and documentation of educational programs.
  • Effectively communicate complex ideas regarding program planning and implementation

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

  • the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
  • the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation

Delivery and Resources

Recommended texts 

Hyde, M., Dole, S. & Tait. K. (2022). Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement, Third Edition. Melbourne: Oxford University Press. ISBN:9780190308452 

Information about the unit iLearn site   

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. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.  

Weekly lectures are available on the web through the ECHO360 lecture component.  

PowerPoint slides are available in iLearn in advance of the weekly lecture and/or are available in the Active Learning Tool.  

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: 

  • Internet access: The iLearn site contains materials for this unit; it is also required for the online submission of all Assessment Tasks, and for the use of Turnitin submission for ALL tasks.   
  • Word processing, visual representations, and document formatting: You are required to use an appropriate form of software to present your assignments.  
  • Uploading of assessment tasks to iLearn. 

 

Communication 

It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a weekly basis.  Communication may occur via: 

  • Official MQ Student Email Address 
  • The Dialogue function on iLearn 
  • Other iLearn communication functions 

General organisation of the unit

The unit is organised in external mode only, and in a flexible delivery format. 

Delivery is designed such that students may seek as much or as little assistance as required in completing the unit. In flexible delivery units, it is critical that students are organised and disciplined. If you get significantly behind in your topic coverage, it may be impossible to catch up. Please start your study as soon as possible.

This unit has a full web presence through iLearn. Students are expected to access the iLearn site and engage with unit materials regularly during the teaching weeks of the semester.

Support resources

Macquarie University has a range of services for students. If you are struggling with any aspect of academic life or career trajectory and skills, we have great supports within the university. Please refer to the comprehensive list of support services here.

Structure

This unit is fully on-line. There are no classes or tutorials.

Unit delivery: Teaching and learning activities

  • Study guides provide an overview of topics and guide learning.
  • Readings are designed to prepare students for the seminars as well as broaden their understanding of topics.
  • Online presentations provide information and highlight key concepts.
  • Forums provide students with the opportunity to ask question and discuss issues relevant to the unit. Contributions to the online discussion forum are not compulsory but can be a beneficial way of exchanging ideas and discussing unit content with other students. Although unit convenors typically check the Discussion Forums daily (on weekdays), they will not respond to all posts, as discussion between students may be more appropriate. Forums should be checked every 48 hours for important announcements. 
  • Dialog allows students to communicate privately with the unit staff. Dialog should be checked every 48 hours for important information. 
  • Assessments allow students to refine and demonstrate achievement of unit learning outcomes. 

 

 

Unit Schedule

This unit provides a practical guide to planning and developing evidence-based educational programs for students with diverse and complex learning needs within the context of contemporary policy, ethical practice, and professional accountability.  Key foci include instructional goals and objectives, professional standards and rules of best practice required for meaningful educational programs that support diversity, inclusion and engagement.

Policies and Procedures

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.

Student Code of Conduct

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

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 connect.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

The Writing Centre

The Writing Centre provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:

Student Enquiries

Got a question? Ask us via the Service Connect Portal, or contact Service Connect.

IT Help

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.

School of Education Procedures

In addition, the following policies and procedures of the School of Education are applicable in this unit.

 

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

External Students

  • This unit is designed for self-paced independent study.
  • Please make effective use of the ilearn site materials and keep up to date by listening to the lectures on a regular basis.

 

5 Rs Framework

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 the 5 Rs framework in the following important ways.

Resilient. Students will become aware of a range of students’ strengths and needs, how to consider pupils’ special learning needs and methods for addressing issues of professional practice accountability.

Reflexive. Students will engage with activities that will encourage them to think deeply and to consider how they might adjust and adapt their newly acquired knowledge into their professional practice for future success.

Responsive: Students will be encouraged to think about the complexities of assessing and teaching pupils with a range of special needs and to respond with practical solutions; grounding each student’s understanding of and connection with future pupils.

Ready to learn. Creatively designed supplementary activities will challenge students to exhibit their eagerness to learn and their appetite for knowledge.

Research engaged. Assessment activities will ask students to apply theories, frameworks and concepts to authentic scenarios encouraging a research sensibility of overlapping networks and groups of human relations utilizing newly acquired evidence based professional practice.

Unit information based on version 2025.01R of the Handbook