Postgraduate Certificate in Learning Support

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Learning Support from Massey University is designed for Learning Support Coordinators and Special Education Needs Coordinators. It provides advanced knowledge and skills in inclusive education, legislation, learning theories, inquiry, universal design, and team collaboration. Delivered online with a flexible schedule, the program emphasizes practical application and collaboration among participants. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in learning support in various educational settings.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Postgraduate Certificate in Learning Support (PGCertLrnSup) offered by Massey University is designed for individuals working in the field of learning support, specifically Learning Support Coordinators (LSC) and Special Education Needs Coordinators (SENCo).

Objectives:

• Extend knowledge, skills, and networks in the field of learning support.
• Provide a platform for learning from and with other LSC and SENCo professionals across New Zealand.
• Develop competence and confidence in implementing inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive education practices.
• Deepen understanding of curricula, NZ legislation, policy documents, and contemporary learning theories.
• Foster the ability to inquire into and improve personal practice.
• Implement universal design for learning and assessment in educational settings.
The program focuses on applying the Teacher Standards to the Learning Support role. Participants will explore:
• Inclusive education practices
• Legislation and policy documents in New Zealand education
• Contemporary theories in learning and development
• Inquiry into professional practice
• Universal design for learning and assessment

Outline:

Program Content:

• Focuses on applying the Teacher Standards within the Learning Support context.
• Explores key aspects of learning support, including inclusive practice, legislation, theories, inquiry, universal design, and team collaboration.

Program Structure:

• Part-time program completed over two semesters.
• Flexible online learning environment allowing for individual pacing and schedule.
• Utilizes webinars, forum discussions, and modules linked to personal practice.

Program Schedule:

• Two semesters:
• Semester 1: Learning Support: Networked Learning (30 credits)
• Semester 2: Learning Support: Professional Practice (30 credits)

Modules:

• Learning Support: Networked Learning (30 credits): Provides an advanced study of learning support principles and practices within the school sector.
Prerequisite: Appraisal required.
• Learning Support: Professional Practice (30 credits): Explores and applies the specialist knowledge and skills essential for school leaders in learning support.
Prerequisite: Appraisal required.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• May include assignments, presentations, exams, reflective journals, and participation in online forums.
• Specific assessment details will vary based on individual modules.

Assessment Criteria:

• Aligned with the program learning outcomes and Teacher Standards for Learning Support.
• Evaluates students' knowledge, understanding, critical thinking, application of concepts, and communication skills relevant to learning support in educational settings.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Primarily delivered online through a flexible learning environment.
• Utilizes webinars, video lectures, online discussions, forum participation, and individual learning modules connected to practical application.

Faculty:

• Experienced and qualified faculty with expertise in learning support, education leadership, and related fields.

Unique Approach:

• Emphasizes application of the program content to the individual professional context of each learner.
• Encourages collaboration and interaction among participants through online discussions and forums.
• Integrates real-world case studies and scenarios to enhance learning and understanding.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Learning Support Coordinator (LSC)
• Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCo)
• Learning Support Teacher
• Educational Specialist
• Inclusive Education Consultant
• Policy and Advocacy Roles in Education

Career Opportunities:

• Opportunities exist in primary and secondary schools, early childhood education settings, special education institutions, government agencies, and private organizations.
• Graduates are prepared for leadership roles with increased responsibility within the field of learning support.

Other:

• Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree in education or equivalent and be registered as a teacher with a current practicing certificate from the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
• At least two years of relevant teaching experience is required.