Certificate In Alternative Education

Learn to teach effectively or manage a school or college, using alternative education and innovative school methods, by distance education courses, training online or correspondence, at home: with free caeers advice counselling.

Course Code: VGN002
Fee Code: CT
Duration (approx) Duration (approx) 600 hours
Qualification Certificate
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What is Good Education?

Consider Distance Learning and other forms of Alternative Education.

 

Different shapes and forms, and traditional education systems do not suit everyone. Some people simply don’t learn as well in a highly structured or conventional situation. Sometimes, a parent or employer seeks a different kind of learning: perhaps one that is more focused on the capacity to be innovative and creative and less focused on learning facts and skills; or learning that is more based on developing problem-solving skills. Also, there is a worldwide increasing demand for more flexible forms of delivery or multi-model education. We have designed this course for educators and trainers who want to develop the skills and broader perspective that will help them meet these new and changing demands. It will help you develop alternative education strategies and alternative educational options to meet the changing needs of students and employers.

 

MAINSTREAM EDUCATION IS CHANGING RAPIDLY

  • Research shows that many (if not most) university graduates, are not finding work in disciplines which they studied.
  • Most people change jobs (and often industries) which they work in; many times throughout their career.
  • Industries that were traditionally big employers are increasingly finding ways to do the same work with far fewer people.
  • What we need to teach is continually changing; and how we need to teach it is changing.

It is naive to think you can do a mainstream education degree and be guaranteed a mainstream, long term career in education that is not that different to what educators did in the past.

For a sustainable career in education, you need something more than that; and this course is designed to set you on just that path!



Course Content:

  • Six modules as outlined below.
  • You must successfully complete an assignment for each lesson in each of these modules; and sit and pass a closed book exam at conclusion of each of the six modules
  • Exams may be sat anywhere in the world. Additional exam fees apply as you come to each exam
  • Cutting edge learning concepts (eg. experiential and problem based learning) are interwoven into these studies; in order to develop a perspective on learning that goes well beyond just the content of the lessons.

 



Modules

Core ModulesThese modules provide foundation knowledge for the Certificate In Alternative Education.
 Course Writing And Development BGN107
 Educational Psychology BPS105
 Workshop I BGN103
 
Elective ModulesIn addition to the core modules, students study any 3 of the following 11 modules.
 Classroom Delivery Skills BGN106
 Delivering Distance Education BGN108
 Motivation VBS111
 Creative Therapies BPS219
 Developmental Psychology BPS210
 Ecotherapy Practice BPS220
 Emotional Intelligence BPS223
 Play Therapy BRE214
 Public Speaking BWR206
 Time Management BBS208
 Neurodiversity BPS311
 

Note that each module in the Certificate In Alternative Education is a short course in its own right, and may be studied separately.


WHY SEEK ALTERNATIVES?

Diversity is what drives progress. 

  • Businesses that are a little different tend to have a higher rate of success.
  • The most successful people tend to follow career paths that are different to most.
  • Successful enterprises arise from thinking outside of the box.

Mainstream education tends to follow "standard"  curriculum, delivered and assessed in similar ways from one school to the next.  On the surface, this may appear to be a fair and equitable way of providing an education service; but it has less flexibility than an alternative.

  • Mainstream education is more of a "teacher led" education; characterised by each student learning the same things.
  • Alternative education can be a more "student led" education, with each student learning different things (given the opportunity to focus on their inherent strengths).

WHAT APPROACH TO TEACHING WORKS BEST?

Exposition Model

This is teacher-centred with the teacher narrates and explains, and practice and revision is used to consolidate the learning. It is based on the traditional approach. It is not inflexible, but the narration, explanation, revision and practice are considered basic to effective teaching. Content focuses on traditional subjects, with a strong emphasis on the basic skills.

Behavioural Model

This is based on well structured steps of learning and the use of reinforcement. Can be used in formal full-class teaching or face-to-face instruction. It is still teacher-directed.

Cognitive Development Model

Here the teacher creates a supportive atmosphere, selects tasks according to pupil's developmental level, and elicits pupil's reasoning in relation to the tasks. Requires planning of steps, but emphasis is on student's reasoning. A number of cognitive approaches are examined within the context of this model. The pupil learns in a resource-rich situation by using reasoning to solve problems.

Interaction Model

This emphasises learning based on the student's interaction with other people and with society, ie. personal interaction. This model works mostly on group situations. Focus is social interaction. Content focuses on social-moral-cultural problems which produces self-aware people.

Transaction Model

This is a pupil-centred model involving a range of teacher structuring with which the self-directed pupil interacts and changes as a result of that interaction. Teacher functions more as a guide rather than as a teacher. Focus is the action (transaction) of the learner. This model is derived from progressive education and open learning.

There are no definite boundaries between each of the models. No one model is regarded as superior to another. A thorough knowledge of all models leads to greater teacher flexibility and efficiency.

THE WORLD IS CHANGING – AND SO IS EDUCATION

Fantastic Opportunities

This fast changing world of ours can be unsettling for some. We all prefer to set our sights on a long term goal, and achieve it. The reality is that the ability to live that way is diminishing every year that passes.

You have two choices in your education –

  • One is to ignore the changes underway in our world; and hope that studying something that has worked in the past, will work for you in the future.

  • The other is to recognise that that there will be unforeseen opportunities in the future, and then prepare yourself as best you can to capitalize on those opportunities.

 Graduate Outcomes

  • Being prepared to capitalize on future opportunities in your field of study.

  • Awareness of the subject and the industry

  • Understanding of how to use what is learnt in real life situations

  • Ability to communicate with greater confidence and accuracy

  • Capacity to solve problems related to this subject

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION WORKS BETTER THAN TRADITIONAL!

  • Mainstream education tends to treat everyone in a similar way. Everyone has different needs, strengths and weaknesses though. Many often fall through the cracks and do not learn very well at all. Alternative methods tend to cater better for everyone.

  • Traditional education tends to produce large numbers of people with similar sets of skills and knowledge. Alternative education tends to produce smaller groups of people with more diverse skills.

  • When a person is fitted to the education system that most suits them; they will be far more motivated and more capable of learning. Given that different people learn differently, and need different things; it is important to have diversity in education if we are to cater as well as possible to as many people as possible.  This can only be achieved through greater diversity -lots of alternatives in education. Standardising curriculum may on the surface seem to be achieving greater social equity; but the idea of "national curriculum" or "national standards" in education is in fact a disservice to all but the minority who that particular system suits.

 

Since 1999 ACS has been a recognised member of IARC (International Approval and Registration Centre). A non-profit quality management organisation servicing education.
Since 1999 ACS has been a recognised member of IARC (International Approval and Registration Centre). A non-profit quality management organisation servicing education.
Member of Study Gold Coast Education Network.
Member of Study Gold Coast Education Network.
ACS Global Partner - Affiliated with colleges in seven countries around the world.
ACS Global Partner - Affiliated with colleges in seven countries around the world.
UK Register of Learning Providers, UK PRN10000112
UK Register of Learning Providers, UK PRN10000112

How can I start this course?

You can enrol at anytime and start the course when you are ready. Enrolments are accepted all year - students can commence study at any time. All study is self paced and ACS does not set assignment deadlines.

Please note that if a student is being assisted by someone else (e.g. an employer or government subsidy), the body offering the assistance may set deadlines. Students in such situations are advised to check with their sponsor prior to enrolling. The nominal duration of a course is approximately how long a course takes to complete. A course with a nominal duration of 100 hours is expected to take roughly 100 hours of study time to complete. However, this will vary from student to student. Short courses (eg. 100 hrs duration) should be completed within 12 months of enrolment. Certificates, Advanced Certificates and Awards (eg. over 500 hours duration) would normally be completed within 3 -5 years of enrolment. Additional fees may apply if a student requires an extended period to complete.
If a student cannot submit their assignments for 6 months to ACS, they should advise the school to avoid cancellation of their student
registration. Recommencement fees may apply.

Simply click on the ENROL OPTIONS button at the top of this screen and follow the prompts.

You can see the course price at the top of this page. Click 'enrolment options' to see any payment options available.

You can pay by Credit Card, PayPal, Afterpay or bank transfer.

Yes! We have payment plans for most courses. Click 'enrolment options' to see the available payment plans.
We also have Afterpay that will allow you to pay for your course or payment plans in four instalments (if you are in Australia).


What do I need to know before I enrol?

There are no entry requirements that you need to meet to enrol in our courses, our courses are for everyone.
If you are under 18, we need written permission from your parent/ guardian for your enrolment to continue, we can arrange that after you have enrolled.

You don’t need to purchase any additional resources to complete our courses.

We aim to teach you the essentials without you having to purchase any specific computer program.
We recommend that you have access to a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs, so that you can easily complete and submit your assignments.

You sure can. We are here to help you learn whatever your abilities.

Yes, if you are enrolling in a Certificate or Advanced Certificate, you might be eligible for credits if you have evidence of your previous studies or relevant experience. More information is here.

We recommend that you are able to browse websites, send emails and conduct online research. You will need to be able to type and submit your assignments.
If you have limited computer skills, we can make special arrangements for you.

This is possible, it depends on the institution. We recommend that if you would like to use our courses that you contact the institution first. Our Course Handbook is a good resource for this.

Our courses are written in English and we only have English speaking academic staff. If you can read and complete your assignments in English, our courses are ideal for you.

Our courses are designed to build knowledge, hands on skills and industry connections to help prepare you to work in the area, running your own business, professional development or as a base for further study.

This course is aimed at providing you with a solid understanding in your selected discipline. It has been designed to take 600 hours, which includes your course reading, assignment work, research, practical tasks, watching videos and more. When you complete the course, will have a good understanding of the area/ industry you want to work in.

It’s up to you. The study hours listed in the course are a rough guide, however if you were to study a short course (100 hours) at 10 hours per week, you could finish the course in 10 weeks (just an example). Our courses are self-paced, so you can work through the courses in your own time. We recommend that you wait for your tutor to mark and return your assignment before your start your next one, so you get the benefits of their feedback.

The course consists of course notes, videos, set tasks for your practical work, online quizzes, an assignment for each lesson (that you receive feedback from your tutor from) and ends in an exam (which is optional, if would like to receive the formal award at the end), using our custom built Learning Management System - Login.Training.

Our courses are designed for adults to gain professional development and skills to further their careers and start businesses.

Our custom online learning portal allows you to conduct your learning online. There may be practical tasks that you can do offline. You have the option of downloading your course notes or print them to read later.

There is also the option to pay an additional fee for printed course notes and or USB (availability limited to location and deliverability).

Yes, if you don’t have access to the internet, you can receive the course as paper notes or on a USB stick for an additional fee. We can also make alternative arrangements for you to send your assignments to us.

We offer printed notes for an additional fee. Also, you can request your course notes on a USB stick for an additional fee.

Yes, your tutor is here to help you. Simply post any questions you have in your login.training portal or contact the office and we can pass on a message to your tutor.

We are more learning focussed, rather than assessment focussed. You have online quizzes to test your learning, written assignments and can complete an exam at the end of the course (if you want to receive your certificate). You will not receive a pass/ fail on your course work. If you need to add more details on your assignment, we will ask you to resubmit and direct you where you need to focus. If you need help, you can ask your tutor for advice in the student room.

Each module (short course) is completed with one exam.

Exams are optional, however you must sit an exam if you would like to receive a formal award. You will need to find someone who can supervise that you are sitting the exams under exams conditions. There is an additional cost of $60 incl. GST for each exam.
More information is here

There are practical components built into the course that have been designed to be achieved by anyone, anywhere. If you are unable to complete a task for any reason, you can ask your tutor for an alternative.

When you complete the course work and the exams (6 exams) and you will be able receive your course certificate- a Certificate. Otherwise, you can receive a Letter of Completion.

You can bundle the short courses to create your own customised learning bundle, Certificates or Advanced Certificates. More information is on this page.

Yes, our courses are built to be applicable for people living anywhere in any situation. We provide the fundamentals, and each student can apply their own unique flair for their own interests, region and circumstances with the one-on-one guidance of a tutor. There is also a bit of student directed research involved.

Employers value candidates with industry skills, knowledge, practical skills and formal learning. Our courses arm you with all of these things to help prepare you for a job or start your own business. The longer you study the more you will learn.

ACS has an arrangement with OAMPS (formerly AMP) who can arrange Professional Indemnity from Australian and New Zealand graduates across all disciplines. Ph: 1800 222 012 or email acs@oamps.com.au.


Who are ACS Distance Education?

ACS Distance Education have been educating people for over 40 years.

We are established and safe- we have been in education for over 40 years.
We are focused on developing innovative courses that are relevant to you now and what you will need to know in the future.
We are focused on helping you learn and make the most of your experience.
You can enrol at any time, you can work on your course when it suits you and at your own pace.
We are connected to many industry bodies and our staff participate in continuous improvement and learning activities to ensure that we are ahead of what learning is needed for the future.

Our courses are not accredited by the Australian Government. However many of our courses are recognised and held in high regard by many industry bodies.

Our courses are written by our staff, who all have many years experience and have qualifications in their speciality area. We have lots of academic staff who write and update our courses regularly.


How do I enrol my staff/ sponsored students?

Yes, you can do a request for a bulk enrolment and request an invoice on our Invoice Request Form

We can prepare an invoice, quote or proforma invoice. Simply complete your details on our Invoice Request form

We can arrange bulk discounts for your course enrolment, please get in touch with us to discuss your needs.

Yes, we have many students who are in locked facilities, such as prisons or hospitals. We can cater by also offering paper notes at an additional cost.


What if I have any more questions or need more information?

We can assist you to find the right course for your needs. Get in touch with us via email (admin@acs.edu.au) call on +61 7 5562 1088 or complete our course advice form.


What if I change my mind?

Please get in touch with studentservices@acs.edu.au if you would like to be removed from our mail list.

If you would like ACS Distance Education to delete your information at any time (whether you are a customer or a prospective customer), please contact our privacy officer and we will process this ( admin@acs.edu.au ).

If students require a reproduction of their certificate, an electronic copy can be provided at a cost of AUD$35 incl GST. Printed copies are not available.




Course Contributors

The following academics were involved in the development and/or updating of this course.

John Mason

Writer, Manager, Teacher and Businessman with over 40 years interenational experience covering Education, Publishing, Leisure Management, Education, and Horticulture. He has extensive experience both as a public servant, and as a small business owner.
John is a well respected member of many professional associations, and author of over seventy books and of over two thousand magazine articles.

Rosemary Davies

Businesswoman, Journalist, Editor, Broadcaster, Teacher, Consultant for over 30 years.

Lyn Quirk

M.Prof.Ed.; Adv.Dip.Compl.Med (Naturopathy); Adv.Dip.Sports Therapy
Over 30 years as Health Club Manager, Fitness Professional, Teacher, Coach and Business manager in health, fitness and leisure industries. As business owner and former department head for TAFE, she brings a wealth of skills and experience to her role as a tutor for ACS.

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