Building teacher capability through school/ university partnerships

Abstract

More specifically the paper is about the Professional learning Project: a workplace learning initiative. The project has been operating at Central Queensland University, through a formal partnership with Sunshine Coast State schools, since 2004. The project impetus is to bridge the theory practice divide in teacher education through a valid partnership model, between a university and an industry employer, that develops the capabilities of current and future teachers. The project is the vehicle through which a common classroom language is developed to facilitate shared understanding for the undergraduate and their teacher mentor. The project aim is to develop teacher capability, current and future, through a focus on expert pedagogy. The Professional Learning Project is an action learning professional development product that bridges the theory practice divide.