The Bachelor of Secondary Teacher Education Post-Degree Professional Program at the University of Victoria (UVic) is designed for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a discipline other than education who aspire to become secondary school teachers. This intensive program provides students with the pedagogical knowledge, teaching skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in teaching adolescents and young adults in secondary school settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Secondary Teacher Education Post-Degree Professional Program at UVic is thoughtfully structured to cover a wide range of topics essential for secondary education. Courses include pedagogy, curriculum development, classroom management, assessment and evaluation, diversity and inclusion, and subject-specific methods. Students engage in both theoretical study and practical experiences, including practicum placements in secondary schools, where they apply their learning under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers.
Research Focus: While the primary focus of the Bachelor of Secondary Teacher Education Program is on preparing students for effective teaching practice, UVic emphasizes the importance of research-informed teaching. Students are encouraged to critically engage with educational research literature, explore innovative teaching practices, and incorporate evidence-based strategies into their teaching. Although the program is primarily practice-oriented, students have opportunities to conduct action research projects and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in secondary education.
Industry Engagement: UVic recognizes the significance of industry engagement in teacher education and provides opportunities for students in the Bachelor of Secondary Teacher Education Program to engage with the education community. Through practicum placements, students gain practical classroom experience in secondary schools, developing their teaching skills and building professional connections with educators and school administrators. UVic also collaborates with local school districts and educational organizations to ensure that the program remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the education sector.
Global Perspective: While the Bachelor of Secondary Teacher Education Program primarily focuses on preparing students for teaching in local secondary schools, UVic encourages students to develop a global perspective on education. Courses may incorporate discussions on global educational issues, cultural diversity, and international perspectives in education. Additionally, UVic's commitment to internationalization provides students with opportunities to engage with global educational practices through international practicum placements, cross-cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects with educators from around the world.