Basics of Educational Sciences (6cr)

Evaluation scale

Pass/Fail

Objective

In this course, you will explore the theoretical and ethical foundations of vocational learning. You will examine learning as a phenomenon and become familiar with the key concepts and principles of educational science and vocational pedagogy. The course will equip you with the ability to analyze and justify your approach to guiding learning using these foundations. You will also explore the living world of learners at different ages from young adulthood to adulthood in various learning environments. 

The course promotes the following competencies: 
- Vocational pedagogical competence: Vocational pedagogical competence refers to a teacher’s educational understanding of the theoretical and ethical foundations of learning and vocational competence, as well as of the documents that define teaching. The teacher applies this knowledge in their instruction and in the development of pedagogical learning environments in their field. They are also able to critically evaluate the basis of their actions and justify their choices. They develop their field of teaching while taking into account the development of working life and professions.
- Competence in Learner Diversity : A teacher has the ability to consider learners’ personal starting points in learning and learning goals. The teacher can assess learners’ individual skills, goals, and learning readiness, and adapt their teaching accordingly. They understand learners’ diverse and unique backgrounds and are able to support equality and equity.

Vocational pedagogical competence
Learning Objectives: 
You are familiar with key educational, developmental, and psychological concepts and theories related to vocational learning. 
You are able to identify and critically reflect on your core beliefs, values, attitudes, and your own thinking and behavioral patterns as a teacher. 

Competence in Learner Diversity 
Learning Objectives: 
You understand the individual and diverse starting points of learners at different ages from young adulthood to adulthood. 

Execution methods

Opintojakso toteutetaan verkko-opintoina ja perustuu itsenäiseen työskentelyyn ja vuorovaikutteiseen vertaisoppimiseen opiskelijan oman aikataulun mukaisesti. Opintojaksoon sisältyy verkossa tapahtuvaa ohjausta.

Content

Key Content of the Course 
- Fundamentals and key concepts of vocational pedagogy, educational science, and psychology 
- Central theories and research on learning, and their application in the work of a vocational teacher 
- The individual and diverse learning backgrounds of learners from a developmental psychology perspective 

Student workload

The course is worth 6 credits, which corresponds to 162 hours of student work.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Vocational pedagogical competence
Assessment Criteria: 
You are familiar with the theoretical foundations of vocational learning.
You are able to analyze and justify your own actions in facilitating learning.

Competence in learner diversity
Assessment Criteria: 
You understand the psychological stages of human development and their significance in learning and facilitating learning.