Professional Practice 1 (SEI&EI)

This subject is not offered in 2013.

22 days (to meet VIT requirement).

100% attendance is mandatory in all practicum subjects.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.

The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject is to be undertaken by qualified teachers and consists of 22 days practicum placement. This practicum has been divided into two components. The first component is a 20-day placement in an approved early intervention, special education or inclusive setting. The student will have the opportunity to observe and participate in classroom practice; to attend program planning/case management meetings and support group meetings (where appropriate); and to develop an individualised learning plan for a child/student with a disability. The second component consists of 6 x 2 hour professional enhancement workshops throughout the Semester. These workshops are designed to support and prepare the student for the professional practice. 100 per cent attendance is mandatory in this subject.

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:
• Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of atypical development and the effects of disability and other "at risk" factors on the development and learning of preschoolers or students;
• Demonstrate an ability to interact with preschoolers or students who have a range of needs;
• Demonstrate an ability to gather information about learning using a range of tools;
• Demonstrate an increased ability to interact with parents and professionals;
• Demonstrate an ability to contribute to program planning meetings (where appropriate);
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the individual needs of students, children and their families.

There are two assessment components:

• Satisfactory completion of 20 days supervised teaching in a setting and 6 x 2 hours of professional enhancement workshop (50%)
• Assignments equivalent to 2,500 words (50%), due throughout the semester

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Evaluate and apply new knowledge
• Apply analytical and critical thinking skills in relation to classroom observation
• Improve their capacity and skills to review teaching practices
• Clearly communicate ideas and observations to professionals