Module XCE-1212:
Core Studies 1
Core Studies 1 2024-25
XCE-1212
2024-25
School of Education
Module - Semester 1
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Catherine Storey
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.
Assessment method
Essay
Assessment type
Summative
Description
“With reference to influential theories of learning, discuss how early years pedagogy supports learners to acquire essential skills, knowledge and understanding within the classroom.” (2000 Words) Suggested Sections & Word Limits: Introduction- Include what you are going to discuss and in what order. This order should be logical, and you should stick to it throughout your assignment- 200 words. Early Years Pedagogy- This will correspond to the principles that we cover in your first lecture on Tuesday 26th of September. 300 Words Learning Theories- Here, you will look in detail at key theories. Refer to your lectures and wider reading! Try to be critical by including a discussion about what is similar and different between the theories and how this ties in with early years pedagogy. 500 words Good Practice- How do children learn best? How do they acquire skills, knowledge & understanding? You may wish to think about some of the practical activities we cover in our first lecture, and what you see in your network/lead schools. 300 words The curriculum for Wales- Outline the main messages of the Curriculum for Wales, and how does this link with the key learning theories? 250 words Examples of Practice- Include one or two examples of practice you observed in your network/lead school. How do these examples tie in with early years pedagogy? 300 words Conclusion- Highlight the main points of your essay, say why they are so important, and consider how this will impact your own practice. 150 words
Weighting
60%
Due date
13/11/2024
Assessment method
Logbook Or Portfolio
Assessment type
Summative
Description
Title: Developing Everyday Welsh in primary schools. Essay, 1600 words
Weighting
40%
Due date
06/11/2024
Assessment method
Logbook Or Portfolio
Assessment type
Summative
Description
Non credit bearing assessment for the National Framework of Welsh Language skills for Educational Practitioners. XCB-1212: Collection of listening, speaking, reading, and writing tasks and the application of these skills to develop pupils’ Wels literacy skills that will identify the threshold level of ATs’ personal Welsh Skills for the National Framework of Welsh Language Skills for Educational Practitioners.
Weighting
0%
Due date
19/03/2025