What you will study

To complete the International Postgraduate Certificate of Education (iPGCE), you must complete 60 Master’s level credits by studying the two 20-credit core modules and one of the two optional modules.

Curriculum Design and Development (Core)

This module provides a basis for understanding pedagogy about the curriculum, theoretical approaches and classroom practice. The module provides the knowledge, skills, and knowledge for teachers to recognise and respond to the needs of learners, schools, and other stakeholders in designing and developing an effective curriculum. You will explore a range of educational theories and research that will critically analyse and evaluate educational principles and practices. You will be expected to engage in the active synthesis of theory and practice.

At the University of Derby, we believe in providing an equitable, inclusive, and accessible higher education experience to everyone with the desire and ambition to learn and progress. Our wide range of programs, offered at all levels and through various study modes, is designed to meet the diverse needs of our students.

To ensure that all our programs are designed and delivered consistently, we have created Curriculum Design and Learning, Teaching, and Assessment Frameworks. These frameworks apply to all our programs and modules, regardless of their level, mode of study, or delivery location.

The primary purpose of these frameworks is to provide a conceptual model for our academic staff involved in designing and delivering our programs. By adopting principles and outcomes-based models, our frameworks support academic innovation and agency across the diversity of pedagogic and epistemological approaches relevant to a modern applied university.

We are an early learning academy focused on social-emotional development and early literacy and numeracy. Our students walk out with the character and confidence to make their mark in the world, equipped with the knowledge and real-world skills that take them way ahead in the industry they may serve.

Research-Informed Practice (Core)

Through this research-based module, you will be challenged to engage critically with appropriate academic reading and research findings and synthesise their studies with a negotiated area of education related to their setting.

This research-based module offers a unique opportunity to develop your critical thinking skills and engage in a deep analysis of academic literature and research findings in the field of education. Through this module, you will have the chance to explore a negotiated area of education that is relevant to your specific setting and synthesise your findings with the existing research.

Our goal is to encourage you to develop an analytical approach to understanding the nature of research methods and techniques and to assess their relevance to your professional practice. You will learn to critically evaluate research studies, identify their strengths and limitations, and understand their implications for your practice.

To support your learning, you will be provided with formative online tasks, such as a written proposal related to your inquiry’s subject. These tasks will enable you to receive feedback and guidance from your tutor throughout the module and to refine your research skills and methodology.

At the end of the module, you will comprehensively understand the research process and its application to your professional practice. You will be able to use the knowledge and skills you have gained to design and conduct your research studies and to contribute to the wider academic community in the field of education.

You will be encouraged to develop an analytical approach to understanding the nature of research methods and techniques and to assess their relevance to professional practice. Assessment will be provided through formative online tasks such as a written proposal relating to the subject of your enquiry.

Inclusive Practice (Optional)

This module is designed to give you a critical understanding of inclusion in education and its practical implications for policy and practice. Through engaging in a range of debates and discussions, you will explore the complex issues that underlie the provision of inclusive education for all learners in today’s classrooms.

We will examine the attitudes, policies, and practices necessary to ensure that all learners achieve positive educational outcomes. We will consider an inclusive approach in various areas, including Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, second language learners, and children from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. You will also explore the educational interventions designed to support learners with exceptionality.

As part of this module, we will explore strategies to reduce potential barriers to success and promote participation in the classroom. Through this, we will foster discourse around learning in diverse educational settings and examine ways to make education more inclusive and accessible for all learners.

By the end of the module, you will have developed a nuanced understanding of inclusion in education and the importance of adopting a holistic approach that addresses the needs of all learners. You will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote inclusive practices in your teaching and learning environment and contribute to the wider discourse around inclusive education.

Innovative 21st Century Teaching (Optional)

The integration of information technology in educational institutions is rapidly increasing, both locally and globally. Many innovative tools and services are now available to engage learners and educators in the study process. This unit is designed to explore the full range of creative contemporary education technologies and skills that can enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

Through this unit, you will understand the latest advancements in education technology and how they can be used to maximise learning outcomes. The team is designed to free up classroom time for in-depth discussions, practical applications of the content, and critical thinking, enabling students to understand the subject matter better. This approach provides more opportunities for the productive application of contemporary skills and promotes active engagement in the learning process.

We aim to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to utilise education technology in your teaching and learning environment effectively. You will learn how to integrate technology in your classroom, design engaging and effective online learning experiences, and use educational software and tools to support learning outcomes.

By the end of the unit, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and advancements in education technology and how they can be applied to enhance teaching and learning. You will be able to effectively use technology in your practice and contribute to the wider discussion on the use of technology in education.

ipgce - what will you learn

THE IPGCE IN NUMBERS

K+
Past IPGCE Graduates
+
Current IPGCE Students
+
Nationalities represented
+
Students progressing onto Master’s

The IPGCE @ Derby has been a truly transformational experience that has helped me to grow both personally and professionally

Amy Tang — Head of Primary School (YK Pao, Shanghai)
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