The core of this course is the Pinnacle teaching training program, convened by the Research Student Development Centre. Pinnacle is a semester long program introducing students to the practical and theoretical issues of being a lecturer in charge of a course in today's higher education environment.

The program is a unique blend of theory, practice and reflection, with participants working closely with a practicing academic in their discipline as they deliver their course, while at the same time being exposed to the teaching and learning theories through readings and discussion and practical activities. Reflection on their practice in light of the theories completes the blend.

Participants in the program are invited to change the way they think about teaching and learning, what their role in that process is, and what that means for their teaching practice.

After completing this course, participants will:

1. Understand major theories of teaching and learning in higher education.
2. Demonstrate the ability to constructively review their guide's practice from a theoretical basis.
3. Have reformed the way in which they view teaching and learning and their own practice.
4. Developed their reflective practice as a tool for professional and personal development.
5. Have explored the differences between theoretical ideals and day-to-day practice.
6. Have refined the ability to discuss teaching and learning practice
7. Have demonstrated the ability to influence the teaching practice and thinking of others

This course will be graded on a pass-fail basis.

Students must attend the weekly classes, complete the online readings and activities, and submit 3 reports.

The reports are:

1. Course Design. Analysis and practice. Approximately 2000 words (20% of final mark).
2. Course Delivery. Analysis and reflection. Approximately 2500 words (30% of final mark).
3. Pinnacle Reflection. Informed reflection. Approximately 3000 words (50% of final mark).

Approximately 8-10 hours per week over the semester.

Admission into an ANU higher degree research program and the agreement of a teaching academic to be the guide. Preference is given to students who have completed RSDC8101 or the Graduate Teaching Program. Participants must have experience as a university tutor or demonstrator.

None.

Reading are supplied online. Additional readings area available from the Research Student Development Centre and Centre for Education Development and Academic Methods libraries.