Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary Technology Education)

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary Technology Education) is a flexible and applied teaching qualification designed for individuals with relevant skills and knowledge to become technology teachers in secondary schools. Through online learning, practicums, and mentorship, graduates gain a deep understanding of teaching technology, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and best practices in secondary education. The program prepares graduates for initial teacher registration and opens up a variety of career opportunities in secondary education.

Program Outline

Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary Technology Education)

Degree Overview:

• Pathway: For individuals without a pre-existing degree but possess relevant skills and knowledge (e.g., trades qualifications) to become technology teachers.
• Admission Requirements:
• Relevant trades qualifications at Level 5, 6, or 7 on the NZQF (or recognized equivalent).
• OR: Level 4 trades qualifications and apply for the alternate entry pathway.
• 3 years of work experience within the past 10 years, relating to teaching technology subjects.
• Learning Outcomes:
• Deepening understanding and application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Reo Māori, and Tikanga Māori in secondary technology education settings.
• Engaging effectively with students, colleagues, stakeholders, professionals, and external organizations.
• Utilizing research and critical reflection to analyze best practices and continuously improve teaching and learning design during practicums.
• Applying professional learning and collaboration within and beyond the secondary technology education setting.
• Communicating industry knowledge and skills for teaching technology using effective academic discourse.
• Overall Aim: Equip graduates with a recognized, flexible, and applied teaching qualification for success in secondary technology education.
• Program Delivery:
• Online course access with academic support.
• Interaction with staff and students via discussion forums, noho marae, and practicums.
• Separate online tutorials by specialists in secondary subjects to refine teaching skills and subject-specific pedagogy.

Outline:

• Start-up Courses:
• Noho Marae: One mandatory overnight stay to immerse in tikanga, kawa, and te reo Māori.
• Practicum: Two full-time 8-week practicums (one of which can be within the partner school).
• Additional Components:
• Workshops
• Work experience opportunities
• Curriculum Overview:
• Courses are offered online for flexibility and convenience.
• The schedule is spread across the year to accommodate individual circumstances.
• 40 full-day school attendance is required (in addition to practicum) over the program.
• 9:00 am to 3:00 pm minimum attendance at partner schools.
• Partner schools provide guidance through a Mentor Teacher.
• Associate Teacher guidance is provided during both practicum placements.
• Contribution to partner school activities is expected, aligning with individual skills and interests.

Assessment:

• Key Teaching Task Progression: Supported to achieve specific tasks during practicum.
• Standards for the Teaching Profession: Opportunity to demonstrate progress and attainment towards these standards within a supportive environment during practicum.
• Maximum Completion Time: 3 years from initial enrollment (exceptional circumstances may apply).

Teaching:

• Focus on practical application: Connecting online theory learning with real-world experiences in schools through practicums.
• Associate Teacher support: Specialized instruction and assistance during both 8-week practicums.

Careers:

• Secondary Education Jobs: Prepare graduates for teaching within secondary settings and related educational professions.
• Open Polytechnic assists in acquiring this support.

• Partner School Agreement Required: Completion of the Candidate Support Form by schools confirms approval.
• Full-time students: Spend two full school days at their partner school each week.
• Part-time students: Dedicate one full school day to their partner school each week (additional to practicums).
• 40 total school days to be completed throughout the program.

• School schedule flexibility: Days are chosen by both student and school.