Charles Sturt University Extended Practicum Program: Deliberative and Serendipitous Learning

Abstract

Two recent trends in teacher education in Australia have been partnerships and internships or extended practica. Both of these trends are underpinned by a recognition of the importance of site‐based learning as part of teacher education and professional development. Whilst many extended practicum programs in Australia are in their infancy, it is worth examining the grounds on which they were established and the opportunities they provide for the participants. This paper is concerned with an Extended Practicum Program (EPP) that is based on a partnership between Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, the New South Wales Department of School Education (NSW DSE) and the New South Wales Teachers Federation (NSW TF).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rosemary Dobbins

Rosemary Dobbins is a lecturer in the Faculty of Education in the University of South Australia. She has recently completed a PhD focussed on the practicum.

Jane Mitchell

Jane Mitchell is the Director of School Experience in the School of Education at Charles Sturt University in Wagga. Her research interest is teachers' work. Both authors were formally teachers.