PGCert – Hartwell University

PGCert in Teaching

Ignite

Learning & Leadership

A 6-Month Journey Through the Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching.

In Partnership with The International Leadership Training Institute.

Impactful & Inclusive

The PGCert in Teaching, offered in collaboration with Hartwell University and the International Leadership Training Institute (TILTI), is a six-month program designed to equip educators with essential knowledge and skills for effective teaching. The program awards 60 master’s credits and provides pathways to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and Early Teachers’ Status.

The program is structured as a hybrid course, with online components delivered by Hartwell and on-site components provided by TILTI.

Hartwell exclusively offers the online portions of the program, which are transferable to many U.S. institutions via accredited partnerships (see the Hartwell Quest website for more information). TILTI facilitates any on-site sessions. Transfer through Hartwell is only available for work done in Hartwell’s online platform.

The program is divided into three key units:

1. Educational Foundations and Pedagogical Theories: This unit explores the history, philosophy, and sociology of education, introducing various teaching methodologies such as behaviorism and constructivism. It emphasizes the significance of educational philosophy and current trends to shape effective teaching practices.

2. Assessment, Inclusive Education, and Classroom Management: Focusing on modern assessment strategies and inclusive education, this unit trains participants in designing assessments, managing diverse classrooms, and promoting equitable learning environments for all students, including those with disabilities.

3. Professional Development, Practicum, and Capstone Project: This unit is dedicated to the professional growth of educators, covering ethics in education, reflective practice, and supervisory skills in teaching. The program culminates in a capstone project, where participants demonstrate their acquired knowledge and skills.

Overall, the PGCert program aims to enhance the quality of teaching, preparing educators to create impactful and inclusive learning experiences.

Curriculum

Below is the 6-month curriculum for the Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Teaching program. The program is structured with two days a week, three hours each day. The first three months cover a regular curriculum for all participants, and the last three months focus on special subjects.

Module 1: Teaching Concepts

Weeks 1-2: Educational Psychology

1. Key concepts in educational psychology.

Learning Theories: Behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism.
How these theories influence teaching practices.

2. Applying psychological principles to enhance learning outcomes.

Weeks 3-6: Core Concepts in the Field – Project Based Learning (PBL)

3. Student-Centered Learning:

Shifting the focus from the teacher to the student, allowing for greater autonomy and active participation in the learning process

4. Technology Integration:

Incorporating educational technology to enhance lessons, engage students, and prepare them for a technology-driven future.

5. Inquiry-Based Learning:

Encouraging students to ask questions, explore topics, and discover knowledge through inquiry, fostering a sense of curiosity and independent learning.

6. Critical Thinking Skills:

Incorporating activities that challenge students to analyze information critically, evaluate arguments, and make informed decisions.

9. Collaborative Learning:

Encouraging students to work together in groups, fostering teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively.

10. Culturally Responsive Teaching:

Recognizing and respecting students’ cultural backgrounds, incorporating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, and creating an inclusive learning environment.

11. Experiential Learning:

Providing hands-on experiences, field trips, and practical applications of knowledge to make learning more tangible and relevant.

12. Environmental and Sustainability Education:

Integrating content and activities that raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Module 2: Employability and Work-Based Learning

Weeks 7-12: Employability & Work-Based Learning

1. Learning Domain:

Memory, attention, perception, and problem-solving. Understanding how cognitive processes impact learning.

2. Motivation and Learning:

The role of motivation in student engagement. Strategies for fostering and sustaining motivation.

3. Learning Styles:

Different models of learning styles. Adapting teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning preferences.

4. Social and Collaborative Learning:

The importance of social interactions in the learning process. Facilitating effective group work and collaboration.

5. Inquiry-Based Learning:

Designing and implementing inquiry-based lessons. Encouraging students to ask questions and explore independently.

6. Learning Strategies:

Incorporating hands-on activities and participatory learning. Techniques for keeping students actively engaged in the classroom.

7. Learning Disabilities and Special Education:

Understanding common learning disabilities. Differentiated instruction for students with diverse needs.

8. Global Perspectives in Education:

Preparing students for a globalized world. Integrating global issues into the curriculum.

9. Ethics in Education:

Addressing ethical considerations in teaching and learning. Promoting academic integrity and responsible conduct.

Module 3: Information and Communication Technology

Weeks 13-18: Information & Communication Technology

1. ICT in Education:

Overview of the Role and Importance of ICT in Modern Education. Historical Context and Evolution of Technology in Education.

2. Educational Technology Tools:

Overview of various educational technology tools. Practical applications and benefits of each tool.

3. Online Learning Platforms:

Creating Digital Content: Developing multimedia presentations and educational materials. Incorporating images, audio, video, and interactive elements.

4. Online Learning Platforms:

Exploring and using online platforms for virtual classrooms. Managing and facilitating online discussions and activities.

5. Blended Learning Approaches:

Combining traditional and online teaching methods. Designing effective blended learning experiences.

6. Digital Assessment Tools:

Using technology for formative and summative assessments. Strategies for implementing online quizzes, surveys, and digital portfolios.

7. Gamification in Education:

Using game-based elements to enhance learning. Designing gamified activities and assessments.

8. Emerging Technologies in Education:

Exploration of emerging trends such as virtual and artificial intelligence. Considerations for integrating new technologies responsibly.

9. ICT and Classroom Management:

Managing devices and technology use in the classroom. Addressing challenges and fostering a positive digital learning environment.

Module 4: Learning Assessment and Evaluation

Weeks 19-24: Learning Assessment & Evaluation

1. Principles of Assessment:

Understanding the fundamental principles that guide the assessment process. The purposes and importance of assessment in the learning cycle. Challenges of Assessment.

2. Assessment Ethics:

Ethical considerations in assessment practices. Ensuring fairness and equity in assessment.

3. Types of Assessment:

Differentiating between formative and summative assessments. Exploring alternative assessments, such as project-based assessments and portfolios.

4. Standardized Testing:

Understanding the role and limitations of standardized tests. Preparing students for standardized assessments.

5. Performance-Based Assessment:

Designing assessments that require students to demonstrate skills and knowledge. Authentic performance tasks and assessments.

6. Balancing Summative and Formative Assessments:

Strategies for maintaining a balance between assessments that evaluate learning and those that inform learning.

7. Constructing Reliable and Valid Assessments:

Understanding reliability and validity in assessment. Techniques for ensuring the accuracy and fairness of assessments.

8. Technology in Assessment:

Leveraging technology tools for assessment purposes. Online quizzes, interactive assessments, and digital portfolios.

9. Grading and Reporting:

Developing fair and transparent grading practices. Communicating assessment results effectively to students and parents.

10. Professional Development in Assessment:

Staying updated on assessment trends and best practices. Collaborating with colleagues for professional growth.

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” — Mother Teresa (1910-1997)