Tutorial Letter 103 TPN2601

The Teaching Practice module provides students with an opportunity to observe and experience how a variety of aspects of teaching is practiced in the school. During the teaching practice weeks, students can observe and apply in different contexts, the knowledge and skills introduced in other modules of the BEd programme. Teaching and learning is never static. The school environment is dynamic and teachers need current experience of what goes on in the classrooms to benefit from their studies. Apart from all the other modules you have to complete in preparation for teaching practice and the information already contained in the tutorial letters and the portfolio, I recommend that you consult the recommended resources indicated in Tutorial Letter 101. In chapter 1 of “Teaching Practice, perspectives and frameworks”, you can read up on additional information as orientation for your teaching practice. This chapter explains the motivation for doing teaching practice as well as how you must prepare for teaching practice. You can also read more about what to expect and what will be expected from you regarding your behaviour as a student in the classroom and in the school. I also wish to encourage you to read other books and articles on teaching practice to equip yourself for with teaching practice experience and complete it to the best of your ability. In the portfolio, you will also often be referred to specific resources. Read the information required before attempting to do the activities. The success of your teaching practice is mostly in your hands and if you approach it with an energetic and positive attitude, it can be a very satisfying and enriching experience. Go and show them out there that you are going to be an excellent teacher when you start teaching! 2.1.1 PURPOSE OF TEACHING PRACTICE MODULE 1(TPN2601) The purpose of the module is to support students in their initial teaching experiences – “the micro- contexts of everyday life in classrooms” (Cohen, Manion, Morrison and Wyse, 2010:1) and proceeds from the understanding that education is context-specific and context-dependent. The focus of this module is guided observation, helping students to observe practice and make connections between what they have learnt, what they have observed and what they have experienced. They may become involved in assisting the teacher under instruction. The placement will require five weeks in a school and there will be an “orientation to school teaching”/approach. TPN2601/103 2.1.2 OUTCOMES OF TEACHING PRACTICE MODULE 1(TPN2601)  Demonstrate understanding of key ideas and debates on issues related to teaching practice.  Observe and critically reflect on teachers adopting and adapting flexibly to a variety of roles and strategies in response to changing learner and learning needs and contexts in the teaching practice placement.  Identify varied strategies for effective classroom practice in ways that are appropriate for different purposes and contexts. ...................................CONTINUED....................................