Overview

Module Overview

This module will explore child development and theories associated with learning and pedagogy. Teachers’ legal responsibilities are also discussed to ensure Associate Teachers understand their responsibilities as professionals. Associate Teachers are introduced to the importance of the Welsh language and bilingualism. The four purposes of the curriculum areas will be embedded throughout the module. The module will focus on children developing as:
-Ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives. -Enterprising, creative contributors, ready to play a full part in life and work.
-Ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the world. -Healthy, confident individuals, ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society.

Developing Welsh as a second language

• Introduction to the key issues of bilingualism /second language acquisition.
• Introduction to the aims and goals of bilingual/Welsh-medium education; curricular expectations and the importance and value of developing bilingual teaching and promoting the Welsh language as a skill for children and parents.
• Fostering Associate Teachers’ appreciation of the Welsh language both formal and informal.
• Identify research-informed effective bilingual pedagogy when introducing Welsh as a second/additional language in schools.
• Introduction to promoting Welsh and the Curriculum Cymreig within the cross curricular areas and themed approaches.
• Identifying and developing the baseline of each English medium Associate Teacher’s personal oral, reading and writing skills in Welsh. This will be based on the differentiated stage of fluency as outlined in the assessment criteria of the National Welsh Colleges Scheme Certificate or the Welsh Personal Literacy criteria for Welsh medium Associate Teachers.

Module Content - Introduction to theories of learning and pedagogy. - Introduction to teaching and learning in diverse classrooms. - Building inclusive classrooms. - An introduction to Additional Learning Needs. - Teaching children with Adverse Childhood Experiences. - Positive Approaches for classroom behaviour management.

An Introduction to Curriculum Cymreig:

-An introduction to the history of the Welsh language and current legislation (Welsh Language Act etc.) -Welsh Education policy and bilingualism. -An introduction to the Curriculum Cymreig. -Introduction to the statutory requirements of teaching Welsh across all phases. Cross module links: Subject studies - Welsh and Cynllun Colegau Cymraeg Certificate. -Role and expectations of the Associate Teacher in teaching and promoting social use of Welsh in schools e.g. Language Charter.

Research Methods and Methodology

Evidence-based practice underpins the content and the delivery of this module and will be presented in a way that communicates how theory and practice are blended. In this module we will present, introduce and describe clearly the strengths and weaknesses of evidence in the latest theory and evidence-based practice that underpins the pedagogy and classroom practices covered. The content and delivery of the module will introduce students to the importance of them developing their capacity to be consumers and producers of research and developing their knowledge of the spectrum of research that informs teaching practice.
This incorporates an introduction to observational strategies and skills: • Reflective Practice. • Observational strategies as research methods. • Observation of learning and behavioural differences. • Ethical considerations for professional inquiry.

Academic Study Skills

Distinct study skills sessions are embedded throughout this module, focusing on developing associate teachers skills as academics. This content covers: • time and task management skills. • note-taking and note-making skills. • reading for academic purposes. • planning assignments. • critical thinking, analysis and developing an argument. • assignment structure. • academic writing style. • referencing. • information literacy.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D) All learning outcomes will have been met to a satisfactory level. Knowledge and understanding of the module content will be supported by a satisfactory range of theory, practice and research literature. Candidates will have demonstrated satisfactory evidence of critical analysis when reflecting on teaching and learning. Students will have developed their study skills to a satisfactory standard and will be able to communicate to a satisfactory standard in a professional and academic context.

-good -(B) Most learning outcomes will have been met to a good level. Excellence in some learning outcomes may balance satisfactory attainment in others. A good knowledge and understanding of the module content will be supported by a good range of theory, practice and research literature. Candidates will provide good critical analysis when reflecting on a significant range of teaching and learning styles. Students will have developed their study skills to a good standard and will be able to communicate to a good standard in a professional and academic context.

-excellent -(A) Most learning outcomes will have been met to an excellent level and all learning outcomes will be at least good. A deep knowledge and understanding of the module content will be supported by an extensive range of theory, practice and research literature. Candidates will provide excellent critical analysis when reflecting on a wide range of teaching and learning styles. Students will have developed their study skills to an excellent standard and will be able to communicate to an excellent standard in a professional and academic context.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate appropriate evidence of capability in practical observational strategies and professional inquiry.

• Develop fundamental knowledge of teaching learners with ALN, those from diverse backgrounds and inclusive practices.

• Explain clearly the role of Curriculum Cymreig and how it is applied in practice in a particular educational setting. In addition, Associate Teachers will demonstrate increased competence in one of the following areas: a) For English medium Associate Teachers, their level of Welsh personal skills in accordance with the National Welsh Colleges Scheme Certificate. b) For Welsh medium Associate Teachers their level of Welsh personal Literacy.

• Identify the contractual, pastoral and legal responsibilities of teachers.