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

Program: Inclusive Education, Delivered Online

Program Start: Summer 2021 (Late April)

Apply by: March 19, 2021

This online Graduate Diploma in Advanced Professional Studies in Education (GDE) program is designed for educators who are interested in deepening their capacity to create, sustain, and lead inclusive communities of belonging in their schools and classrooms. Through participating in a collaborative, experiential, inquiry-focused community of practice in the GDE cohort, you will explore pedagogical frameworks and instructional approaches that celebrate, encourage and strengthen the diversity of inclusive teaching and learning contexts.

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.

Program Themes:

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

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.

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