Professional Doctorate Professional Doctorate in Education

An introduction to the fundamental importance of critical reflection and reflexivity in professional learning in education covering issues such as professional development in a changing world, identity, positionality and ethics. The module will form part of the research strand of the award leading into the research and development module and then into the professional enquiry.

This module aims firstly to engage participants in a critical discussion about how new educational knowledge is created. Secondly, it aims to support the process of educational research via the development of a research proposal for the professional enquiry, the final module of the MA Education award.

Independent Study allows participants to develop their own learning skills in an area of particular interest to them. Participants will develop in depth and systematic knowledge of key and recent educational research pertinent to their study. They will be able to negotiate outcomes and assessment components within module guidelines. Through support, participants will use critical reflection to explore complex relationships that exist between theory and practice.

In this module you will explore the digital identities and habits of learners and teachers within educational settings working collaboratively and individually to achieve this. You will examine existing theoretical perspectives in digitally mediated education and consider how emergent pedagogical frameworks might be utilised to engage with learners digital habits. You will specifically examine the changing role of the learner and teacher/facilitator within this emerging paradigm. In your groups you will identify a problem and propose an intervention that takes into account the habitual use of digital tools by learners and show how it can be used for effective learning. You will critically evaluate the process and product of your collaboration and your own individual contribution as a member of your group. An example might be: For example, you might look at the ways in which blogging is used in social spaces and critically appraise its functionality for learning purposes. Is their any research into the habits of bloggers, what is the demographic etc., Is it likely to translate to a school space? Does it fit any particular theories of learning? Further you could supplement this by looking at its use in education. Any aspect of digital engagement might be chosen: mobility, gaming, social software, you tube etc.