Students break for summer, teachers hit the books
Summer courses include media literacy
Just when students are graduating and breaking for the summer, some 400 teachers are hitting the books or, in some cases, picking up a video camera for upgrading and professional development at the Faculty of Education.
At the University of Manitoba, 86 courses are available for summer session training at the Faculty of Education, including “Portrayals of Teachers in Popular Media.”
“For teachers and school administrators, summer is prime time for many to pursue professional development,” said course instructor, Dr. Joanna Black. “In today’s digital world, media has more influence than ever over public perception of who teachers are and what they do in the classroom. This course exposes educators to many portrayals of teachers and administrators, tackling issues that continue to be relevant today—bullying, racism and poverty.”
Teachers also get comfortable with new media by reflecting on the movies in blogs and creating a video of their own where they demystify Hollywood fact from fiction and learn filmmaking skills of their own.
“Today’s students are exposed to more media than ever—from TV, radio, Internet, newspapers, magazines, books, billboards, video games, music, and all other forms of media,” says Prof. Black. “This means that media literacy has never been more important and relevant in the classroom. And this course gives teachers the tools to analyze, evaluate, and create their own media—essential skills in today’s classrooms.
“This course provides teachers a chance to have their own voices heard regarding their professional experience in the classroom. They can offer new visions about our education today,” Prof. Black said.
Dr. Joanna Black