Focus on the Field - BONUS Conversations

Communication and Feedback—Jeff Turner

We've heard throughout this series about the importance of communication. Jeff Turner is a Sessional Instructor at the Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary. He also acts as a university advisor for student teachers and mentors in the teacher education program. In this conversation, we explore the importance of strong, honest and open communication throughout the practicum experience. Some great insights and strategies!

Coaching and Mentoring in the Teacher Practicum—Dawn Burleigh & Connor Kopp

Connor Kopp is a recent graduate from the teacher education program at the University of Lethbridge. Dawn Burleigh was Connor's faculty consultant/mentor. In this conversation, Connor and Dawn share insights and perspective on the teacher education practicum, the importance of mentorship and the journey into the teaching profession.

The Teaching Quality Standard—Elders Jerry and Jo-Ann Saddleback

Jerry and Jo-Ann Saddleback are educators and elders from Treaty 6 Territory. They joined me to talk about the Teaching Quality Standard and, in particular, how educators might approach Competency No. 5: "A teacher applies Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit for the benefit of all students" Elders Jerry and Jo-Ann share important information about their community's view of child development, the importance learning from elders and knowledge keepers and understanding the protocols around approaching elders and knowledge keepers.

The Teaching Quality Standard—Jason Schilling

Jason Schilling is the current president of the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA). In this episode, Jason places the Teaching Quality Standard (TQS) in the context of his own teaching career, but also reflects on the importance of the TQS for professional learning and conversations.

The Teaching Quality Standard—Paul McLeod

Paul McLeod is Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources for St. Albert Public Schools in Alberta. He has intimate knowledge of Alberta's Teaching Quality Standard and, in this conversation, reflects on the development of the TQS, what it means for individual teachers and how it has changed the way that educators talk about their work in Alberta. A very passionate conversation!