19/2/08
Training for tomorrow’s teachers has taken a giant leap forward with a landmark research facility to be built at the new Roseworth Primary School in Girrawheen.
Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said the Edith Cowan University Research Facility would give student teachers a fantastic opportunity to observe and research a wide range of teaching methods and behaviour management techniques, without disrupting the classroom.
“The research and training facility is the result of a partnership between the Western Australian Government and Edith Cowan University (ECU), in association with the Fogarty Foundation,” Mr McGowan said.
“The facility will include space for student teachers to work with small groups of children and improve their skills, which can also be used by the school during university holidays.”
Girrawheen MLA Margaret Quirk said the facility would give teaching graduates more confidence and hands-on experience, which would ultimately benefit WA school children.
“Construction of the new Roseworth Primary School buildings will be completed by the end of 2009, including the ECU-funded research facility,” Ms Quirk said.
Professor Greg Robson, ECU Head of Education, said the university was highly committed to conducting educational research that would make a difference to the children of WA and Australia.
“This partnership will allow our researchers and student teachers to help improve the education of Roseworth Primary School students and use the research findings to adapt teacher training for tomorrow’s teachers,” Professor Robson said.
The Fogarty Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation which funds programs to promote knowledge and ideas through education.
Roseworth Primary School principal Geoff Metcalf said the school community was excited about the research facility plans.
“The research facility will bring a constant influx of ideas and will allow our teachers to tap into the university staff members’ knowledge and skills,” Mr Metcalf said.
“We will be able to use the facility to analyse and develop Roseworth Primary School’s programs so our students will have the very best opportunities, while promoting our school to teachers as an excellent place to hone their skills.”
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