VCAL Applied Learning I and II (Elective)
“The world is God’s epistle to mankind – His thoughts are flashing upon us from every direction” Plato (427-347 BC)
Overview
Precursor to VCAL
The concept of applied learning is often equated to ‘hands on’ or practical learning experiences. This broader definition advocates an approach that contextualises learning in a way that empowers and motivates students, while assisting them to develop key skills and knowledge required for employment, further education and active participation in their communities.
Aims
These key concepts underpin the following applied learning principles:
- Start where students are at
- Negotiate the curriculum. Engage in a dialogue with students about their curriculum
- Share knowledge. Recognise the knowledge students bring to the learning environment
- Connect with communities and real-life experiences
- Build resilience, confidence and self-worth – consider the whole person
- Integrate learning – the whole task and the whole person. In life we use a range of skills and knowledge
- Learning should reflect the integration that occurs in real-life tasks
- Promote diversity of learning styles and methods. Everyone learns differently. Accept that different learning styles require different learning or teaching methods, but value experiential, practical and ‘hands on’ ways of learning
- Assess appropriately. Use the assessment method that best ‘fits’ the learning content and context
- Prepare students for what is expected for VCAL in Year 11 and 12
Topics Include
- Communication Skills - Presentations
- Fundraising – Adopt a Cause
- Hands On Learning – eg. Barista Certificate
- Real Life Budgeting – Numeracy
- Leadership
- Student Directed Topics
Time allocations
Prerequisites
Requirements
Assessment
Students will be assessed throughout the year with a combination of projects and activities.
"Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God's wonders. Job 37:14
