Free short courses to help teachers in the classroom

Teachers will soon be able to access free short courses through the University of Adelaide, to help improve learning outcomes in classrooms across Australia.

Developed by experts, the new microcredential courses will focus on three topics: classroom management, explicit teaching strategies such as effective use of feedback, and phonics.

The online courses have been made possible through a $3.3 million partnership with the Australian Government’s Department of Education and the University of Adelaide’s Professional and Continuing Education (PACE), School of Education and Computer Science Research Group.

Microcredentials are short, outcome-based certifications of assessed learning or competency, that are designed to be responsive to industry needs.

The University of Adelaide’s Professor John Williams, Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, said the University is thrilled to be bringing this initiative to life.

“The University of Adelaide has an excellent track-record in the development and delivery of microcredentials,” he said.

“Our world-class teacher education and high-quality research makes us best placed to deliver the latest strategies for producing positive outcomes in classrooms across the nation.”

General Manager of the University of Adelaide’s PACE, Sally Jones added:

“It’s pleasing to see the Australian Government’s recognition of microcredentials as a fast and effective tool to upskill Australia’s workforce in areas of need.

“The University of Adelaide, through its PACE team, has a strong history of combining academic, professional and industry expertise to deliver industry relevant, flexible, accessible, and validated learning experiences.

“With our in-house technical experts who design and build interactive online content, curriculum designers who specialise in delivering microcredentials using adult learning principles, and subject matter experts, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to work as a team on this important initiative for the Department of Education.”

The microcredentials will offer teachers credit towards post-graduate award study with the School of Education.

Our world-class teacher education and high-quality research makes us best placed to deliver the latest strategies for producing positive outcomes in classrooms across the nation.Professor John Williams, Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics

These types of credentials provide a learning opportunity for teachers to further build on their expertise and knowledge in the classroom,” said Professor Susan James Relly, Head of the School of Education, University of Adelaide.  

Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare said the microcredentials will provide vital professional development opportunities for teachers, school staff and school leaders.

“These evidence-based courses will help teachers build on their skills in classroom management and the teaching of phonics,” he said.

“They support new and experienced teachers and will help to improve student learning outcomes.”

Enrolments in the microcredentials, which are being offered at no cost to teachers nationwide, will open in November 2023.

For more information, contact PACE.