Postgraduate Diploma in Teacher Education (PGDTEd)

The Postgraduate Diploma in Teacher Education (PGDTEd) is an intensive 8-month program designed to equip educators with both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills. The program ensures alignment with academic standards by integrating university-level coursework, subject-specific content from the BEd Distance Learning program, and upper secondary curricula (Grades 10–12). We train teachers from each Township Education Board who have joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) and currently volunteer in federal online and on-ground schools. Through structured learning activities, including lectures, laboratory work, and a teaching practicum, the PGDTEd bridges foundational education theories with real-world classroom practice, preparing educators to excel in secondary education.

Curriculum and Teaching Model

The BEd Distance Learning Degree and the corresponding Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching are designed to align with academic standards. To ensure the course content is comprehensive and relevant, the following references are used:

  1. University-Level Curriculum:
    • BEd Distance Learning (First and Second Year) Textbooks: These serve as the primary reference for foundational knowledge.
    • Arts and Science Stream (First to Third Year Level): Content from these levels is integrated to provide a broader academic perspective.
  2. Upper Secondary-Level Curriculum (Grade 10, 11, 12):
    • The curriculum for Grades 10, 11, and 12 is used to ensure alignment with the secondary education system and to provide practical teaching references.

Example of Semester References:

  • Semester 1:
    • References include BEd First Year Course Content, Grade 10 Curriculum, and Grade 11 Curriculum.
  • Semester 2:
    • References include BEd Second Year Course Content and Grade 12 Curriculum.

This approach ensures that the curriculum is well-rounded, combining foundational knowledge from the BEd program with practical, grade-specific content from the upper secondary level. It prepares educators to effectively teach at the secondary level while meeting academic standards.

Definition of Academic Year

  • Total Duration: The academic year spans 8 months, divided into 2 semesters (1st semester and 2nd semester).
  • Semester Duration: Each semester lasts for 3 months.

Break Between Semesters: There is a 2-month break between the first and second semesters. During this period, students are required to complete their teaching practicum (practical teaching experience).

Key Requirements

  1. Regular Class Attendance: Students must attend classes consistently.
  2. Laboratory and Practical Sessions: Participation in hands-on laboratory work and practical sessions is mandatory.
  3. Teaching Practicum: Students must complete teaching practicums to gain real-world teaching experience.
  4. Diverse Learning Activities: Students are expected to engage in various teaching and learning processes comprehensively.

This structure ensures a balanced approach to theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students effectively for their teaching careers.

Note: The subject curricula are designed as a combination of university-level curricula and basic education curricula. This integrated approach ensures that students gain both advanced academic knowledge and practical teaching skills relevant to primary and secondary education levels.