Learning Alternatives

Learning Alternatives Have we got what it takes?: The skills, rewards and recognition needed for teachers, youth workers and others in Learning Alternatives. Christine Owen Australian National Schools Network

Have we got what it takes? “We” equates to teachers, youth workers and others who might be involved in these alternative settings. It is clear that the “one-size-fits-all-approach” does not work. The clientele is very broad and a range of flexible approaches must be: • Available, resourced, supported and respected • Not hidden, but valued as legitimate ways to educate young people • Accountable for use of tax payer and/or sponsor dollars.

Some things we know….about those who work in these settings • Are often regarded as slightly mad, subversive….. somewhat “alternative” themselves….. even charismatic.… but they • Have respect for students and for their peers • Desire to be with young people, understand (?) current youth culture and want young people to succeed • Recognise the need to be authentic/real; possess self-knowledge, good listening skills, sensitivity • Are self-starters - capable of developing their own programs with links to student lives/needs • Are also gatekeepers – protecting their programs.

We also know that they……… • Are dedicated and put their heart and soul into supporting and protecting young people • Often burnout! They will stay if … • Decent pay and non-wage rewards, such as structured time out and a creative balance of stress, enjoyment and professional rewards are possible….. because like most people they respond to a sound and stimulating work culture and environment.

Influences on student achievement (Hattie, J., Teachers Make a Difference. What is the Research Evidence?, ACER 2003)

The process • Find your materials on the table • Identify a facilitator (who will ensure each person get a chance to contribute) • Identify a scribe (who will record and write-up the results of your discussion) • Identify the blu-tak boss (who will post your results on the wall) • Others (who are contributors to the discussion)

Professional dialogue task Your efforts here will influence the communiqué and will be summarised and posted on the DSF website………….. You have 20 minutes to: Provide 2 key suggestions for improving the current situation as you see it with regard to one of the following 6 focus areas:

Focus areas for discussion 1. Rewards and recognition 2. Communication 3. Skills and pre-service training 4. Dealing with isolation 5. Immediate PD needs 6. Ongoing PD needs

Question 1: Rewards How should teachers, youth workers and others in alternate settings be rewarded and recognised at a. system level and b. school level? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

Question 2: Skills What special skills are required by those who work in alternate settings? What are the implications for pre-service training for both teachers and youth workers? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

Question 3: Communication How might communication be enhanced a. between teachers, youth workers and others in alternate settings and b. with those external to the school/ alternate setting eg systems and other authorities? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

Question 4: Isolation To lessen the isolation experienced by many in alternate settings who else should you be connected with that may assist/support you? How do you imagine this will occur? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

Question 5: PD now What are the immediate professional development needs of teachers and youth workers in alternate settings ie short term (in next 6-12 months)? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

Question 6: Future PD What are the on-going professional development needs of teachers and youth workers in alternate settings ie long term (over 1-3 years)? Who could/should take responsibility for implementing your suggestions?

To finish up…… • Your 2 suggestions are to be posted in the appropriate spot as we break for lunch……..take time during lunch to read ideas from your colleagues. • Thank you for helping us to gain a clearer picture of what it takes…. And how you think we might develop and expand this important area in the education landscape.

Thank you Please thank your table colleagues for their cooperation.

Learning Alternatives