Attend an online information session to learn more about the GDE instructional team, program curriculum, admission requirements and application process.

Program: Inclusive Education: Communities of Belonging (Online)

Program Start: Fall 2022 (Sept)


Apply by: July 15, 2022

This online Graduate Diploma in Advanced Professional Studies in Education (GDE) program has been developed in partnership with School District #33, Chilliwack, is designed for educators interested in deepening their understanding of Inclusive Education, with a focus on Indigenous approaches to building and nourishing inclusion and belonging in school settings, while engaging in a professional learning community focused on sustained reflective inquiry into school-based practice.

GDE programs are developed in collaboration with British Columbia school districts for educators whose primary focus is school-based practice within BC. This online program focuses on British Columbia’s Ministry of Education K-12 curriculum and highlights ways to engage with curriculum through inclusive, experiential, and relational pedagogies, in order to foster learning environments where all members feel that they belong and can participate in meaningful ways.

Our programs allow you to “live the work” in a collaborative learning community, with the support of colleagues, mentors, and instructors. Our cohorts tend to attract educators with a range of experiences and backgrounds, including new teachers and TTOCs. Join us for this unique opportunity to connect with educators from across the province who share your curiosity and passion for building belonging in your educational communities.

This program is regarded as a preferred qualification for support teaching roles within the Chilliwack School District. 

PROGRAM THEMES

• Exploring developmental, Indigenous, and compassionate approaches to inclusive education
• Connecting educational purposes, beliefs, values, and practices
• Examining theories, principles, and frameworks of inclusive education, including English Language learning and culturally responsive teaching
• Engaging with Indigenous and holistic approaches to teaching and learning
• Designing responsive classroom practices
• Creating inclusive environments, which includes understanding socio-cultural perspectives on identity and learning
• Linking assessment and instruction to address diverse learning profiles
• Exploring proactive approaches to assessing student behaviour and strategies for support
• Designing quality educational plans for students with complex needs
• Collaborating, supporting, and strengthening relationships with colleagues, parents, and other educational partners
• Building and sustaining collaborative learning communities

Ideally Suited For:

This two-year, 30-unit program of study is for teachers whose primary focus is school-based educational practice. It provides the opportunity to engage in focused, sustained reflective inquiry. Completion of the diploma allows teachers to move from TQS category 4 to TQS 5 or from category 5 to 5+.

GDE Features: Range of Program Themes, Cohort Based, 2 years (6 terms), and TQS Upgrade Opportunity.