Objectives
This specialisation aims to: * describe critical theoretical perspectives of education; * critically examine the current literature on social justice; * demonstrate an awareness and practical knowledge of cultural differences across and between schools, teachers, parents and community members and negotiate effective relationships with these groups; * provide curriculum, pedagogical, and policy leadership in education; * understand that there are various ways of representing issues such as student behaviour concerns, school retention and boys' and girls' education; * articulate the effects of a range of factors on education and social justice. These may include political, ethical, historical and economic factors; and * develop and conduct independent critical research in education.Learning outcomesThe specialisation seeks to provide students with the ability to: * critically discuss and evaluate current theory and research in selected areas of educational policy and practice; * examine recent writing in the field of education with an informed critical perspective; * translate knowledge gained from reading, discussion and writing into educational practices; * contribute to the informed construction of educational policy, whether local, national or global.
Course description
The Master of Education (Social Justice in Education) provides a program of study which specialises in questions of social justice, ethics, equity and equality, cultural diversity and social and cultural analysis.
The aim of the program is to develop your skills as a culturally responsive teacher or education professional through critical pedagogies, the development of a culturally inclusive curriculum, and expertise in the effects of historical, social and cultural change in educational settings.
The Master of Education (Social Justice in Education) is designed to enable students to select topics of their interest and to create a program of study that addresses their educational pathways. It is suited to all educators within formal institutions such as schools, as well as other educational and training settings. Educators from teachers to administrators, curriculum developers and managers will benefit from this program.
There is a strong emphasis in the program on linking the theoretical discussions of social justice, equity and diversity in education with practical educational strategies to create an inclusive learning environment.
The program provides students with advanced skills in critical thinking, curriculum and educational policy analysis and expertise in social change and its implications for education in Australia, and indeed globally.
Upon completion of this specialisation graduates will be able to:
* describe critical theoretical perspectives of education
* critically examine the current literature on social justice
* demonstrate an awareness and practical knowledge of cultural differences across and between schools, teachers, parents and community members and negotiate effective relationships with these groups
* provide curriculum, pedagogical, and policy leadership in education
* understand that there are various ways of representing issues such as student behaviour concerns, school retention and boys' and girls' education
* articulate the effects of a range of factors on education and social justice. These may include political, ethical, historical and economic factors
* develop and conduct independent critical research in education.
The Master of Education is a 72-unit flexible coursework program that allows students to create individual programs to suit their interests and thus shape their own educational pathways.
Students can choose to apply for admission for either the generic MEd or the following optional specialisation.
THE MASTER OF EDUCATION AND RELATED SPECIALISATIONS DO NOT QUALIFY GRADUATES FOR TEACHER REGISTRATION.
PROGRAM OF STUDY [November, 2008]
To qualify for the Master of Education (Social Justice in Education) a student must complete 72 units, including approved credit, with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, comprising:
Two alternative programs will be available and are outlined below.
* 36 units equivalent to a fourth year of study in the field of education (credit for an approved four-year degree or for approved relevant work experience will be granted within this component); and
* a 6-unit core topic Constructions of Social Justice and Education;
* two 6-unit topics from Social Justice Specialisation topics;
* a 6-unit elective topic drawn from Masters level topics;
* 12 units of coursework project with a Social Justice focus or two 6-unit Social Justice topics;
OR
* 36 units equivalent to a fourth year of study in the field of education (credit for an approved four-year degree or for approved relevant work experience will be granted within this component);
* a 6-unit core topic Constructions of Social Justice and Education;
* two 6-unit topics from Social Justice Specialisation topics;
* 18 units of Thesis/Research Project with a Social Justice focus.
The coursework topics are normally selected from the following:
Core topic
EDES9638
Constructions of Education and Social Justice
6
and
EDES9639
Ethics in Education
6
EDES9707
Schooling and Sexualities
6
EDES9409
Representing Teachers' Lives and Work
6
EDES9637
Education and Religion
6
EDES9708
Social Justice and Teaching in Rural Communities
6
EDES9628
Globalisation: Issues and Challenges
6
Not all topics are available in a given year. Availability is indicated in Flinders University timetable.
