Master of Teaching (Primary)

The Master of Teaching (Primary) is a two-year graduate entry initial teacher education program for pre-service primary teachers.

The program is informed by the latest research and contains (i) an introduction to the profession, Aboriginal education, teaching students who have English as an additional language or dialect, teaching and learning, inclusive and special education, classroom behaviour management, literacy and numeracy education and ICT across the curriculum;

(ii) eight curriculum methods units;

and (iii) 60 days of professional experience are spread across three units in the course, including an 'online demonstration school' and a professional experience partial internship.

Students are also introduced to research principles and methods and complete a research project as part of their candidature.

All students complete a Primary Specialisation in English/Literacy.

Course Aims

The Master of Teaching (Primary) aims to provide candidates with:(i) an accredited professional qualification meeting the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs, and ensuring all graduates meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage; and(ii) UNE Graduate Attributes as detailed below; and(iii) a knowledge of research methods and the skills to apply these in the context of education.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: know students and how they learn. Have a current knowledge and understanding of research into teaching, learning and child development and how to apply such research to the needs of the students in the primary school; know the content and how to teach it; plan and implement effective teaching and learning, with a high level of personal autonomy and professional accountability; assess, provide feedback and report on student learning. Communicate, negotiate, collaborate and advocate effectively and relate well to all the school's community; engage in professional learning and set personal targets and take responsibility for their own development. Demonstrate a knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field of Education, and plan and execute a substantial research-based project and/or piece of scholarship; and create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments and engage professionally with colleagues, parents/carers and the community. Behave with integrity underpinned by moral purpose, model values and ethical perspectives in relation to own and the school's practice and organisation. Promote democratic values including active citizenship and inclusion.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Graduates will be able to demonstrate mastery and skills of pedagogy and curriculum methodology relevant to the primary teaching profession and will be able to demonstrate an awareness of the multicultural nature and global perspectives of education in the wider community. Communication Skills Graduates will be able to implement various media and other forms of communication appropriate to primary school classroom levels. They will have acquired the communication skills necessary to effectively communicate with a wide range of stakeholders both within and outside the classroom. Problem Solving Graduates will have the skills necessary to conceptualise problems in their profession and formulate solutions by gathering and analysing information relevant to primary school teaching as a profession. Information Literacy Graduates will be able to acquire, evaluate and use information from a wide range of media forms in primary school teaching. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Graduates will be able to appreciate and acknowledge the social and ethical implications of their actions. They will be able to contribute responsibly to the wider community and appreciate the importance of sustainable development. Lifelong Learning Graduates will have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to develop, evaluate and implement personal learning strategies. Furthermore, they will demonstrate curiosity, creativity and critical thinking in their workplace and personal development. Independence and Collaboration Graduates will be able to independently apply their knowledge and skills in their professional practice. In addition they will be able to negotiate, assert their own values and respect the values and contributions of others whilst participating in team based activities.