Researchers from a leading multi-campus university are launching a suite of professional development courses for teachers to address the evolving needs of educators across Australia.
The short courses, developed by Charles Sturt University’s School of Education, aim to improve the agility, quality and market attractiveness in micro-credential and short course offerings.
Executive Dean of the Charles Sturt Faculty of Arts and Education Professor 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 a ‘Practical AI for Teachers’ and a ‘Universal Design for Learning (Teaching to Diversity)’, which empower teachers with generative AI skills and inclusive practices through live webinars and self-paced courses, aligning with national educational frameworks.
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% in 2022.
Moreover, the increasing incidence of student disabilities, coupled with 47% 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.”