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Professor John MacBeath
and
Professor Dennis Francis
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning programme is for anyone who is teaching, or who would like to teach, in any subject and any context - be it at school, at home or in the workplace. With dynamic lessons taught by established and respected professionals from across the Commonwealth, this eight course programme will see you develop and strengthen your skills in teaching, professionalism, assessment, and more. As you carry on through the programme, you will find yourself strengthening not only your skills, but your connection with colleagues across the globe. A professional development opportunity not to be missed.
Read more
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning programme is for anyone who is teaching, or who would like to teach, in any subject and any context - be it at school, at home or in the workplace. With dynamic lessons taught by established and respected professionals from across the Commonwealth, this eight course programme will see you develop and strengthen your skills in teaching, professionalism, assessment, and more. As you carry on through the programme, you will find yourself strengthening not only your skills, but your connection with colleagues across the globe. A professional development opportunity not to be missed.
Read more
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning programme is for anyone who is teaching, or who would like to teach, in any subject and any context - be it at school, at home or in the workplace. With dynamic lessons taught by established and respected professionals from across the Commonwealth, this eight course programme will see you develop and strengthen your skills in teaching, professionalism, assessment, and more. As you carry on through the programme, you will find yourself strengthening not only your skills, but your connection with colleagues across the globe. A professional development opportunity not to be missed.
How we teach has its foundation in how we were taught and how we learned. This course provides an opportunity for you to reflect on your personal and professional development as a teacher. Through reflection and portfolio development you will enhance your knowledge and understanding of how to promote learning.
Enhance your course by joining the Commonwealth teaching community on our website, Facebook and Twitter.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/42bcys/foundations
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What's inside
Syllabus
What is a teacher?
The first week of this course looks at what it means to be a teacher. We look at the many roles that a teacher plays and why each of these is important. We consider what it means to be an effective teacher. We look at ways in which we can improve what we do as teachers using a model of continuous professional development. Finally, we consider what a philosophy of education is and how we can develop a philosophy that guides our teaching.
Read more
Syllabus
What is a teacher?
The first week of this course looks at what it means to be a teacher. We look at the many roles that a teacher plays and why each of these is important. We consider what it means to be an effective teacher. We look at ways in which we can improve what we do as teachers using a model of continuous professional development. Finally, we consider what a philosophy of education is and how we can develop a philosophy that guides our teaching.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops pedagogical knowledge and skills, which are core to teaching effectively
Applicable to anyone who teaches, regardless of subject or context
Taught by well-respected professionals from across the Commonwealth
Great starting point for increasing effectiveness as a teacher
Provides dynamic lessons from experts
Builds a community of teachers through an online forum and social media
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Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Reflecting on the teacher's journey
According to learners, this course offers a highly valuable and reflective experience, focusing deeply on the personal aspects of teaching. Students praise its ability to encourage introspection on teacher identity, motivations, and personal philosophy. The course structure is often described as well-paced and broken into bite-sized modules, making complex ideas accessible. While many find the emphasis on theory and reflection highly beneficial for developing a strong foundation, some note that it is less focused on purely practical classroom techniques, suggesting it serves best as an initial step in a broader professional development journey. Overall, it is seen as a strongly positive introduction to understanding the multifaceted role of a teacher.
More theoretical foundation than practical techniques.
"While rich in theory and reflection, I was hoping for a bit more focus on practical classroom management strategies."
"It provides an excellent theoretical foundation, but learners looking for hands-on 'how-to' might need supplemental courses."
"This course is strong on the 'why' and 'who' of teaching, less so on specific 'how-to' methods."
"Great for philosophical grounding; those needing immediate classroom tools might find it less directly applicable."
Presenters are knowledgeable and inspiring.
"The instructors were knowledgeable and passionate, making the video lectures enjoyable."
"I found the different presenters brought unique perspectives and kept the content fresh."
"The delivery style of the teachers was very engaging and held my attention."
"It's clear the educators presenting the material are experienced professionals."
Modules are clear, concise, and easy to follow.
"The course is very well-structured, with logical progression through the weekly topics."
"I appreciated the 'bite-sized' approach to the material, making it easy to digest alongside other commitments."
"Lectures are clear and concise, delivering key concepts effectively."
"The organization of the weeks and topics made the learning process smooth and engaging."
Helps explore personal teaching beliefs.
"Exploring my teacher identity and developing a philosophy of education was a highlight."
"It prompted me to consider my motivations for teaching and the influences that shaped my approach."
"Understanding the 'Being a Teacher' aspect, beyond just the skills, was very insightful."
"The module on developing a teaching philosophy was particularly thought-provoking and useful."
Focuses on introspection and personal growth.
"The course content was spot on and provided many opportunities for reflection, which is a key part of being a teacher."
"I particularly enjoyed the reflective exercises that helped me connect the theory to my own experiences."
"This course truly makes you think about *why* you teach and your personal journey, which I found incredibly valuable."
"The focus on reflection was a major strength, enabling a deeper understanding of myself as an educator."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher with these
activities:
Review the Principles of Teaching and Learning
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of teaching and learning can help you better understand how to create and deliver effective lessons.
Browse courses on
Learning Theory
Show steps
-
Read articles or books on the principles of teaching and learning.
-
Watch videos or listen to podcasts about teaching best practices.
-
Attend a workshop or training on teaching and learning.
Read 'The Art of Teaching' by Guy Claxton
Show steps
This book provides insights into the art of teaching and can help you become a more effective educator.
View
Powering Up Children: The Learning Power...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book and make notes on the key ideas.
-
Discuss the book with other teachers or students.
-
Apply the ideas from the book to your own teaching practice.
Participate in a Peer Teaching Session
Show steps
Peer teaching can help you to develop your teaching skills and learn from others.
Show steps
-
Find a partner or group of peers to practice teaching with.
-
Prepare a lesson plan and materials to teach your topic.
-
Teach your lesson to your peers and receive feedback.
-
Reflect on your teaching experience and identify areas for improvement.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Teaching Portfolio
Show steps
Creating a teaching portfolio can help you to reflect on your teaching skills and identify areas for improvement.
Show steps
-
Collect evidence of your teaching experience, such as lesson plans, student work, and feedback.
-
Organize your evidence into a portfolio that showcases your teaching skills and knowledge.
-
Share your portfolio with others and seek feedback.
Design and Implement a Teaching Intervention
Show steps
Designing and implementing a teaching intervention can help you to develop your teaching skills and improve student learning.
Show steps
-
Identify a teaching problem or need.
-
Research and develop a teaching intervention to address the problem or need.
-
Implement the teaching intervention in your classroom.
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching intervention.
-
Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement.
Review the Principles of Teaching and Learning
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of teaching and learning can help you better understand how to create and deliver effective lessons.
Browse courses on
Learning Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles or books on the principles of teaching and learning.
- Watch videos or listen to podcasts about teaching best practices.
- Attend a workshop or training on teaching and learning.
Read 'The Art of Teaching' by Guy Claxton
Show steps
This book provides insights into the art of teaching and can help you become a more effective educator.
View
Powering Up Children: The Learning Power...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book and make notes on the key ideas.
- Discuss the book with other teachers or students.
- Apply the ideas from the book to your own teaching practice.
Participate in a Peer Teaching Session
Show steps
Peer teaching can help you to develop your teaching skills and learn from others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a partner or group of peers to practice teaching with.
- Prepare a lesson plan and materials to teach your topic.
- Teach your lesson to your peers and receive feedback.
- Reflect on your teaching experience and identify areas for improvement.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a Teaching Portfolio
Show steps
Creating a teaching portfolio can help you to reflect on your teaching skills and identify areas for improvement.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect evidence of your teaching experience, such as lesson plans, student work, and feedback.
- Organize your evidence into a portfolio that showcases your teaching skills and knowledge.
- Share your portfolio with others and seek feedback.
Design and Implement a Teaching Intervention
Show steps
Designing and implementing a teaching intervention can help you to develop your teaching skills and improve student learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a teaching problem or need.
- Research and develop a teaching intervention to address the problem or need.
- Implement the teaching intervention in your classroom.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching intervention.
- Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement.
Career center
Learners who complete Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Teacher
Teacher
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course prepares you to enter the teaching field. With this course, you will learn how other teachers develop their approaches to teaching. You will observe several methods and will be able to incorporate them into your own style.
Teaching Assistant
Teaching Assistant
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be a helpful resource for someone interested in teaching. The course covers a range of topics including the role of a teacher, and how to impact learning.
Education Administrator
Education Administrator
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course may help you with your current or future role as an education administrator. With this course, you will learn how other teachers develop their approaches to teaching. You can then provide structured support for teachers to improve their teaching.
Instructional Coordinator
Instructional Coordinator
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course may be useful for someone interested in becoming an instructional coordinator. This course will provide you with strategies for working with teachers and students to improve teaching and learning practices.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developer
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could help you become a curriculum developer. This course covers a range of topics, including how to reflect on your personal and professional development as a teacher. This course can help you create effective and engaging curricula.
Education Consultant
Education Consultant
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful to someone interested in becoming an education consultant. With this course, you will learn how to develop and strengthen your skills in teaching, professionalism, assessment, and more.
Educational Researcher
Educational Researcher
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course may be useful for someone interested in educational research. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the principles of teaching and learning.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful for someone interested in becoming an instructional designer. This course will help you to develop and deliver effective online and blended learning.
Teacher Trainer
Teacher Trainer
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful to someone interested in becoming a teacher trainer. This course will provide you with strategies for working with teachers to improve their teaching practices.
Language Teacher
Language Teacher
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course may be useful for someone interested in teaching. This course covers a range of topics including the role of a teacher, and how to impact learning.
Homeschool Teacher
Homeschool Teacher
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course may be useful for someone interested in homeschooling. This course covers a range of topics including the role of a teacher, and how to impact learning.
Adult Education Teacher
Adult Education Teacher
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful for someone interested in teaching. This course covers a range of topics, including how to reflect on your personal and professional development as a teacher. This course can provide tools for instructing adult learners.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Trainer
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course can be useful to someone interested in corporate training. This course will provide you with methods for developing and delivering effective training programs.
Youth Development Worker
Youth Development Worker
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful for someone interested in working with youth. This course covers a range of topics including the role of a teacher, and how to impact learning.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
The Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher course could be useful for someone interested in becoming a museum educator. This course will help you to develop the skills needed to teach visitors about museum collections and exhibitions.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/42bcys/foundations
Reading list
We've selected 42 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Teacher.
Save
Provides a synthesis of over 800 meta-analyses on the factors that influence student achievement. It valuable resource for any teacher who wants to improve their teaching practices.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on how students learn. It valuable resource to any teacher who wants to improve their teaching practices.
Provides a framework for differentiating instruction for students with diverse learning needs. It valuable resource for any teacher who wants to meet the needs of all their students.
Is an important text in the field of education and provides a critical perspective on traditional teaching methods. It is particularly relevant to this course as it explores the role of teachers in empowering students and fostering critical thinking, which aligns with the course's emphasis on reflective practice and student-centered learning.
This seminal work by one of the course instructors explores the relationship between teacher development and school effectiveness. It provides insights into how teachers can improve their practice and how schools can create a supportive environment for teacher growth.
Widely accepted guide in classroom management. It can help you develop and implement effective classroom management strategies.
Save
Provides a research-based overview of how the brain learns. It can be helpful for teachers who want to understand the latest research on learning and improve their teaching practices.
Save
Offers a thought-provoking exploration of what makes great teachers different. It emphasizes the importance of teacher identity, self-reflection, and the ability to inspire students.
This practical guide provides evidence-based teaching strategies and lesson planning techniques to help you become an effective teacher. It covers classroom management, student engagement, and assessment.
Save
This classic work on teaching offers insights into the art and craft of teaching, emphasizing the importance of clarity, enthusiasm, and engagement. It valuable resource for educators looking to improve their teaching skills and pedagogical knowledge.
Save
Provides a research-based overview of how people learn, which can be helpful for teachers who want to understand the latest research on learning and improve their teaching practices.
Provides practical advice on how to give effective feedback to students. It can be helpful for teachers who want to improve their feedback practices and help their students learn more effectively.
Provides practical strategies for incorporating brain research into classroom teaching. It can be helpful for teachers who want to learn about the latest research on learning and improve their teaching practices.
Provides research-based insights into the challenges faced by students who live in poverty. It can be helpful for teachers who want to learn about the impact of poverty on learning and develop strategies to support students who are living in poverty.
This influential book presents 49 research-based teaching techniques that have been proven to improve student learning. It focuses on classroom management, student engagement, and effective instruction.
Offers proven strategies for planning and delivering high-quality lessons. It valuable resource for any teacher who wants to maximize student learning.
Provides practical strategies for differentiating instruction for students with learning disabilities. It can be helpful for teachers who want to learn about the latest research on teaching students with learning disabilities and improve their teaching practices.
This resource from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics provides a framework for professional development for educational leaders. It covers areas such as vision and mission, data-driven decision-making, and equity and access.
This influential book synthesizes research on effective teaching practices and provides a framework for understanding the impact of different teaching methods on student learning. It useful reference for educators looking to improve their teaching effectiveness and make informed decisions about instructional strategies.
Save
Discusses the importance of having a growth mindset, which is the belief that intelligence can be developed through effort and hard work. This can be helpful for teachers who want to encourage their students to believe in themselves and their ability to learn.
This seminal work in reflective practice helps develop your understanding of how reflective practice necessary component of effective teaching.
Provides practical strategies for creating culturally responsive classrooms that are inclusive of all students.
Helps teachers develop their reflective practice skills. It provides tools and techniques for analyzing teaching practices, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and developing strategies for improvement.
Will help you learn how to differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning needs.
Provides practical advice on how to let go of perfectionism and embrace your true self. It can be helpful for teachers who want to learn about the impact of perfectionism on teaching and develop strategies to overcome perfectionism.
Save
Provides practical advice on how to develop courage and resilience. It can be helpful for teachers who want to learn about the impact of courage and resilience on teaching and develop strategies to overcome challenges.
This comprehensive textbook provides a foundational understanding of educational psychology. It covers topics such as learning theories, motivation, assessment, and classroom management.
This popular book provides a practical framework for creating a positive and effective learning environment. It emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and building relationships with students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of major learning theories and their implications for teaching. It covers topics such as behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning theory.
Save
This research-based book provides practical strategies for creating a positive school climate that supports student learning and well-being. It covers topics such as bullying prevention, restorative justice, and school-wide interventions.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of effective feedback. It explores the different types of feedback, how to give feedback that is specific, actionable, and motivating, and how to use feedback to improve student learning.
Is helpful for getting started with the concept of critical consciousness. It can help you understand how to promote social justice in the classroom.
Save
This powerful memoir provides a unique perspective on the importance of education. It tells the story of a young woman who grew up in an isolated and fundamentalist family and her journey to pursue an education.
Save
This influential book explores the importance of having a growth mindset, where individuals believe that their abilities can be developed through effort and dedication. It provides practical strategies for teachers to foster a growth mindset in their students.
This inspiring book explores the personal and professional challenges of teaching. It encourages teachers to reflect on their own beliefs and values and to develop the courage to teach with authenticity and passion.
Save
Explores the science of motivation and provides insights into what truly drives human behavior. It challenges traditional notions of motivation and offers practical strategies for creating environments that foster intrinsic motivation and engagement.
Save
Explores the two systems of thinking that shape human decision-making: System 1, which is fast, intuitive, and emotional, and System 2, which is slow, deliberate, and rational. It provides insights into how these systems interact and how they can be used to make better decisions.
Provides a framework for understanding the challenges of innovation and disruption in established industries. It offers insights into why successful companies often fail to adapt to new technologies and market trends.
Save
Explores the science of willpower and provides practical strategies for developing self-control and achieving goals. It offers insights into the brain's reward system and how it can be harnessed to overcome procrastination and build self-discipline.
Save
Provides a practical framework for understanding and overcoming resistance to change. It offers insights into the psychology of change and provides strategies for creating a culture of innovation and adaptation.
Save
Explores the science of culture and provides insights into how successful teams and organizations create a culture of excellence. It offers practical strategies for building a strong team culture and fostering innovation and collaboration.
Save
Explores the concept of nudges, which are subtle changes to the environment that can influence people's choices without restricting their freedom. It provides insights into how nudges can be used to promote positive behaviors, such as healthy eating and saving for retirement.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/42bcys/foundations
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Rating
4.7
Effort
11 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Commonwealth Education Trust
Instructors
Professor John MacBeath
Professor Dennis Francis
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
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