Presentation 7 FR1

Title

Work-integrated Learning in the Bachelor of Health Physical Education program

Author(s)

Vaughan Cruickshank, School of Education
Casey Mainsbridge, School of Education
Kira Patterson, School of Education
Arto Grasten, School of Education
Scott Pedersen, School of Education

Subtheme

Excellent teaching happens by design

Presentation Type

Presentation

Room

Flexible Learning Space 1

Time

14.00-14.15

Abstract

Teacher education has historically consisted of a set of disconnected subjects and experiences, rather than a carefully constructed and integrated learning experience informed by a cohesive vision of learning and teaching (Loughran, 2006). Recent scrutiny of initial teacher education (ITE) providers (e.g. Teacher Education Ministerial Advisory Group (TEMAG), 2015) has resulted in a concerted effort to increase the quality of graduates entering the teaching profession, specifically through providing improved training and support. To increase the quality of graduates and facilitate links between university subjects and professional experiences in schools, the Bachelor of Health and Physical Education undergraduate degree program (BEd HPE) operates a comprehensive Work Integrated Learning (WIL) pathway.

The WIL pathway aligns with the National Strategy on Work Integrated Learning in University Education (2013) and is underpinned by the Degrees of Difference: University of Tasmania Education Model (2016). Degrees of Difference commits to incorporating authentic and experiential learning by engaging students in relevant real-world contexts that require them to actively engage in critical thinking, problem solving, and self-directed reflection. The WIL pathway is embedded within multiple units across each year of the four-year degree program and aims to develop and maintain strong community partnerships that benefit both schools and PST.

This presentation will detail the process of setting up this WIL pathway, the different experiences it provides students, and the benefits of WIL for both PST and our community partners. Implications for future teacher education will also be discussed.

References

Loughran, J. (2006). Developing a pedagogy of teacher education. New York, NY: Routledge.

Australian Collaborative Education Network. (2013). National strategy on work integrated learning in university education. Retrieved from http://cdn1.acen.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/National-WIL-Strategy-in-university-education-032015.pdf

Teacher Education Ministerial Advisory Group. (2015). Action now: Classroom ready teachers report – Recommendations. Canberra, ACT: Australian Government Department of Education and Training.

University of Tasmania. (2016). Degrees of difference: University of Tasmania education model. Hobart, TAS: University of Tasmania.