SP4: Education and Work, 2013-2014

Note: While open to all I/S candidates, this cohort is compulsory for candidates enrolled in the Technological Education program

Cohort Description

This cohort is designed for both I/S and Technological Education teacher candidates who have a keen interest in the issues related to work and education. Typically, SP4 candidates possess work experience related to a teaching subject. As such, SP4 has long been the preferred home for teacher candidates from business, accounting and technological education. The focus of the secondary program cohort "Education and Work" is on interdisciplinary approaches for both teaching and research in the area of work and career oriented education, including an examination of the Ministry of Education Student Success Strategy and its emphasis on Specialist High Skills Majors, expanded co-operative education programs and destination pathways. In addition, teacher candidates are provided with a high level of academic experience in the study of education and work through the lens of adult learning theory.

Program/Curriculum

In the SP4 program, teacher candidates gain an understanding of the context of the growing complexities of educational workplaces, the knowledge society, diverse technologies and lifelong learning. The SP4 cohort also includes field trips, guest speakers and a research assignment that will focus on the Ministry of Education's Student Success/Learning to 18 initiatives.

Practicum/Internship

As in all OISE programs, SP4 includes two practicum sessions, one in each of the Fall and Winter terms, with mentor teachers on practical aspects of teaching and learning. In addition, like all teacher candidates, those in SP4 complete an internship in educational or workplace settings, such as industry and union-based training programs, post-secondary apprenticeship programs and education-oriented non-governmental organizations, from late April to the end of May.

Who Should Apply to SP4?

While open to all I/S candidates, this program is compulsory for candidates in the Technological Education program.

Further Info

For SP4, Education and Work -  please contact Florence Ormonde.