As you have seen in this presentation, the QCT have a number of responsibilities with respect to Queensland teachers. Take some time to review the Professional Boundaries document and also take a look at the Code of Ethics for Queensland Teachers. Are there any aspects of either of these documents that you find challenging or interesting.
I would be very keen to hear your views. Also feel free to ask any questions you may have about either document or the functions of the Queensland College of Teachers.
I noted a distinct lack of empathy and dignified treatment of children in the state school system on prac (year 6). Experienced, senior teachers found it difficult to muster up any empathy for some students labelling them dyed-in-the-wool bad. They had never met or spoken to many of their students’ parents, by the end of term 2. I hope my third prac offers me some more up-to-date behavioural examples, more closely aligned to these ethics documents, as I found it was I who was displaying the best attitude, and not my mentors.
I agree with the comment about social media, you can never be too careful these days. I teach at a dance school and the owner clearly states every year in our training sessions that we can not approach students or contact them online. If they reach out to us we must let her know and not respond. I have actually made my social media accounts private and hidden, you cannot find me when you do a search in google.
I can also relate to the comment made about living within a small community and seeing your students out and about. I live in the same area as the dance school I teach at. The placements I have done have also been at locals schools. I am constantly running into students from the dance school out at the shops or whilst on placement. I always make sure I act professional and friendly when I see them.
The key thing that I realised from this presentation is that teachers are under the microscope, which is to be expected considering the responsiblity they have in learner’s lives.
A recent thought I had was about the connection with past students. An example I have heard of is where a teacher may invite a student back into their classroom after they have graduated to perform a speech on their career and act as a role model for current students. If a student has graduated, it may be difficult to communicate with them via methods other than their personal email/facebook. Is this considered acceptable practice to engage with the student this way or something that could raise flags with the QCT?
Kind Regards
Brenton
Hi Brenton,
I seem to recall someone saying that you should leave it two years before having personal connections with former students. This is to help mitigate against any imbalance of power, either real or perceived. Having said that, I know with my own kids, who both went to private catholic schools, both got back in touch with their teachers after a few months. These were mainly the ones in their respective fields of study at University. They would catch up for coffees etc., but never anything ‘funny’ going on.
Regards
Rod
Working as a Teacher aide, and attending a seminar run by a lawyer that works for United workers union, I have heard horror stories about people behaving unprofessionally.
What I have learnt over the years, always ask your self, what does this look like to others? Because while you think it is completely professional others may not.
ALWAYS PROTECT YOURSELF!,
Since undertaking two professional experiences at local primary schools and working as a Teacher Aide at a local High School, I am now regularly recognised by students as I live in a small community. As a Government employee I understand my responsibilities to act professionally at all times, including outside of school hours.
This presentation highlighted the importance of Teachers online presence and the ramifications of individuals who do not follow the Code of Ethics and Professional Boundaries outlined by the Queensland College of Teachers. This identified the necessity to ensure that all online activity aligns with standards denoted by the QCT. By adhering to these ethics we can ensure that we are not subject to inquiries of misconduct. The presentation noted that 70% of teachers who are scrutinised by the QCT are examined due to activity on social media. As an individual who frequently uses social media, this presentation highlighted the importance of being professional online at all times. Mr Pelusi states that “You are on show all of the time, the way you act and speak will always be scrutinised”. I believe that living in the digital age, as pre-service teachers we need to ensure that our online presence is professional, respectful and aligns with the frameworks set by the QCT to ensure that we continue to display a commitment to the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.
The school I work at as a teacher aide reminds us that we are not to talk to the parents (further than polite responses) about even their own children, definitely not about other children etc. It is an important reminder that we keep both personal opinions and observations to ourselves in order to avoid damaging relationships between parents/students and the wider school community.
A useful tip, yes confidence and privacy are very important principles in this space.