University News Last updated 12 October 2009
A group of trainee teachers from Birmingham City University swapped classrooms for climbing walls at a recent induction event.
The 64 students from the University's Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) took part in the team-building event which consisted of different activates, including a 8 metre climbing wall and taught skills such a teamwork, communication and leadership.
Being run by outdoor learning and team building organisation Closer to the Edge, the idea behind the event was to teach interpersonal and functional skills to the group, to enable them to work together more effectively both in the university teaching setting but also to help equip them with the valuable skills they'll need when they become qualified teachers.
Tricia Le Gallais explains: "The idea behind the day was to give our students the opportunity to experience a different type of teaching in order to challenge any preconceptions that learning only takes place in the classroom.
"At Birmingham City University, we try to excite and challenge our trainees to think outside the normal teaching box. Giving them this experience has done just that. It was also a really excellent way for them to get to know each other and to build support networks which they can use throughout their training."
Student Laura Bowyer took part in the event. She said: "I really enjoyed the Closer to the Edge event! I learned quite a few things about myself, including how to motivate others, such as by tailoring goals and achievements to personally suit individuals who may be feeling less than confident about a specific task. These skills will be very important when I begin teaching."
Greg Brookes-Clayton, Educational Director and trainee placement mentor at Closer to the Edge added: "We are passionate about the powerful nature of Learning Outside the Classroom, developing personal learning and thinking skills has the ability to ‘shift' culture at all levels. Developing a positive learning culture is essential for lifelong learning and should therefore be central to any curriculum."
Added by on October 12, 2009