Positive learning relationships and environments

This unit focuses on the relational aspects of teaching and learning. You will explore a range of curriculum documents that support building personal and social capabilities that contribute to positive classroom environments and relationships with, and between students and the wider community. You will be provided with practical strategies and ideas about ways to build positive student relationships and to understand reasons behind student behaviour and address challenging behaviours. The practical component of the unit will support you to develop strategies for co-creating classrooms environments that are conducive to rigorous learning that minimise challenging behaviour.

You will consider how to proactively create supportive and dynamic learning environments while at the same time being responsive to incidents of conflict and challenging behaviours that occur within that learning environment. Unit activities will model effective classroom communication and pedagogical strategies. You will explore the philosophy and practice of key approaches that build learning communities and challenge mainstream punitive practices. You will be supported to think critically and creatively as you experience and practice the creation of safe, supportive and healthy learning environments within your own university classroom.