Students will explore current developments in sociological theory in order to understand and interpret the contexts and learning needs and strengths of children from diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds, with a particular focus on those from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background. Students will research the histories, cultures and languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. They will examine educational theory and a range of teaching and communication strategies to cater for these children when in learning environments to support their learning, safety and well-being. The unit examines the role of educators to meet the diverse needs of their students, including a Christian perspective. The unit also examines the rationale for, and implications of ongoing professional learning in order to improve teaching practices and student learning outcomes. The unit will cover the purposes of, and a range of strategies for involving and working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers in the educative process, including reporting to them about their child’s progress, and the related importance and purpose of keeping accurate and reliable records of student achievements and learning needs. The unit covers the role and implications of relevant legislative, administrative and organisational policies and processes required for teachers and how to interpret and apply them in practice. This unit also examines current professional identity and engagement, specifically addressing the codes of ethics and conduct for the teaching profession, duty of care and mandatory reporting, and their implications for practice. Topics: * Diversity in the Classroom – reading and discussing various articles: e.g. Dinham 2008, Richards, Brown, and Forde 2007 * Addressing diverse student needs * Teaching Strategies in response to diversity * Understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students’ histories, cultures and languages * Working with the wider community and the Codes of Conduct and Ethics