Learning to Teach, Teaching to Learn

Book excerpt: Essential textbook for primary student teachers in Ireland, providing valuable context and support for the taught and school placement components of initial teacher education programmes. With close reference to the Primary School Curriculum 1999, key legislation, publications and theories, the book presents accessible yet thought-provoking insights into learning and teaching that every student teacher needs to acquire. The theory and practice of education is explored in the following key areas, with the aim of preparing students for their school placement, assignments, portfolio and dissertation: Becoming a teacher; reflective practice; portfolio writing; learning theories; child-centred approaches; research methods; classroom observation; lesson planning; classroom dialogue; classroom climate; assessment; teaching relationships Future teachers are encouraged to engage critically with the key ideas presented through a wide range of reflective tasks that are differentiated to cater for undergraduate and master's level students. SUITABLE FOR Student teachers undertaking BEd and PME degrees in primary education Mentors and tutors involved in initial teacher education