Tackling complex learning needs: Charles Sturt empowers teachers to remain in the classroom

Charles Sturt University is launching a suite of professional development offerings for teachers to address the evolving needs of educators across Australia among the skills shortage this industry is facing.

• Charles Sturt University's School of Education has developed a suite of professional development offerings for teachers
• The courses have been developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders and teachers, particularly from regional and remote communities
• Two courses, 'Practical AI for Teachers' and 'Universal Design for Learning (Teaching to Diversity)', will launch in August 2024

Charles Sturt University is launching a suite of professional development offerings for teachers to address the evolving needs of educators across Australia among the skills shortage this industry is facing.

Academics in the Charles Sturt School of Education developed the short courses in alignment with the University's Education Strategy to bolster agility, quality and market attractiveness in micro-credential and short course offerings.

Executive Dean of the Charles Sturt Faculty of Arts and EducationProfessor John McDonald said this is a significant step toward addressing the changing landscape of teaching across Australia.

"As part of our commitment to excellence, we recognise the importance of adapting to the dynamic needs of the education sector," Professor McDonald said.

"Our courses are based on our deep respect for teachers and reflect the extensive experience, knowledge and passion of our teaching staff who design and present these courses."

The short course offerings include:

• 'Practical AI for Teachers' - created by Sub-Dean (Learning and Teaching) and Senior Lecturer Dr Jacquie Tinkler and offered as two courses via live webinars to equip teachers with practical skills needed to use generative AI responsibly, effectively and innovatively within their teaching, learning and administrative practices. This course reflects the aims of the Australian Framework for Generative AI in Schools and ACARA's Curriculum Connection: Artificial Intelligence documents.

• 'Universal Design for Learning (Teaching to Diversity)' - created by Lecturer in Education Dr Natalie Thompson and delivered through two self-paced courses where teachers will examine the fundamental concepts of Universal Design for Learning and explore how they can embed this in their practice. A final optional course will offer teachers the opportunity to showcase their inclusive practices and contribute to a professional network of educators transforming inclusive education. Practice-based learning will empower teachers to design lessons that meet the needs of all students in disability-affirming, strength-based and effective ways.

Professor McDonald said each course was developed using current market data, industry expertise and insights from teachers.

"We understand the need for support in key areas and are committed to offering high-quality professional development that is innovative and responsive to the evolving demands placed on teachers," he said.

"By prioritising consultation with industry stakeholders and teachers in regional and remote communities, we ensure our professional development programs achieve this."

Aside from their practical benefits, the courses were inspired by in-depth exploration by the University into the critical issues confronting the Australian education sector and aimed to identify gaps in existing programs addressing the national teacher shortage.

Key findings indicate a heightened teacher attrition rate, especially in rural areas, with intentions to leave the profession peaking at 35 per cent in 2022.

Moreover, the increasing incidence of student disabilities, coupled with 47 per cent of early career teachers feeling ill-equipped to handle related complex learning needs and behaviours, underscores the need for more diverse teaching capabilities.

Generative AI has also prompted educators to grapple with important questions about how to ethically harness technology to enhance learning outcomes while also addressing its challenges.

Charles Sturt University's Project Lead of Partnerships and Micros Ms Georgie Stuart said the best way to approach this was to hear from those on the ground.

"We are committed to driving positive change in education, particularly in regional, rural and remote communities where the challenges are often amplified, and quality professional development is difficult to access," she said.

"By consulting extensively with principals, teachers and parents in these areas, we ensure our professional development offerings are not only relevant but transformative."

To learn more about how these courses can support teaching staff and elevate school's performance, contact Ms Georgie Stuart at [email protected].

ENDS

Media Note:

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Jessica McLaughlin at Charles Sturt Media on mobile 0430 510 538 or via [email protected].

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