Course 2 : Connection - The Heart of Teaching

This course  aims to help teachers deal with the issues that arise in implementing a values-based approach to education. It builds on the understandings achieved in the "Building Resilient Teachers" Foundation Course, but can be undertaken separately.

The course has five modules:

Session 1 : Integrating pedagogy with a values approach

This session looks at how teachers can utilize their role and opportunities in the classroom to  foster students' personal growth.The foundation for the practice of values lies in an individual's emotional stability which gives him or her the capacity to withstand competing pressures.

Session 2 : The personal qualities of a teacher

A teacher  students can identify with and model their own personal behaviour on is a key to successful values education. This session examines the personal qualities that make teachers effective in this important role.

Session 3 : Self-Reflection

Self-reflection enables a teacher to more deeply understand the emotional and social demands of students and to be flexible in responding to them. Meditation and a variety of other reflective practices can greatly assist in this process. In this session, teachers are introduced to a number of approaches they can utilize for self-monitoring and for recharging their batteries each day.

Session 4 : Listening and Connecting

Effective teaching depends on creating a positive relationship with each student. Listening well can be a powerful means of connecting with students and helping them sort through the barriers to their academic learning.This session focuses on the skills teachers can develop to tune in and connect with their students.

Session 5: Keeping on Top

The final session imparts positive and  practical ways of dealing with thepersonal challenges of the classroom. These approaches will help teachers move from a defensive, 'just coping' position to finding growth and fulfillment through these same challenges.