Professional Experience Briefing – Module 1: What Is Teaching? (Week 4)

A comprehensive set of question-and-answer flashcards covering expectations, organisation, assessment, communication, and professional conduct for Pre-Service Teachers undertaking their first Professional Experience placement.

What is the main purpose of Professional Experience (PEx) placements?

To observe, analyse, connect theory to practice, work with children, learn how schools operate, and confirm your career choice.

Who is usually the Professional Experience (PEx) Coordinator in a school?

A deputy principal or the principal.

If your placement information says “TBA,” what does that mean?

‘To be advised’ – the school has not yet allocated a specific mentor teacher or classroom.

List three professional behaviours expected of a Pre-Service Teacher (PST) on PEx.

Punctuality, respectful communication, and acting on advice (others include collaboration, initiative, enthusiasm).

What happens if you fail the designated Professional Experience unit?

You cannot progress further in the course.

Where can you find all PEx guidelines, assessment details, and forms?

In the PEx Module on Canvas.

Name three items evaluated on the Mentor Teacher Checklist.

Professional communication, organised PEx file, and punctuality (others: respect for school ethos, initiative, dress standard, positive student relationships).

How many school days must you complete for this placement unless an authorised absence occurs?

Seven days (one day per week).

What is the Learning Experience Plan (LEP) requirement?

Plan and teach a small-group lesson on PEx Day Six, get it signed by the mentor teacher, and submit it as part of Assignment Part 3.

Which email account must you use for all professional communication with the school?

Your official ECU email account.

Give an example of a professional email greeting when writing to a teacher named Daniel East.

Dear Mr East,

Why should you include a signature block in every professional email?

It helps the recipient identify who you are and provides your contact details and course information.

List three documents that must be included in your Professional Experience (PEx) file.

Copy of WWCC card, NCCHC clearance, and PEx guidelines PDFs (others: POG, school info, LEP drafts, feedback).

When must on-campus students bring their PEx file to tutorials?

Week 5 and Week 12.

What clothing fabric is specifically prohibited by Department of Education policy during PEx?

Denim.

What should you do if your ECU name badge has not arrived before Day One?

Obtain a visitor’s badge from the school front office when you sign in.

State two things you should find out in your introductory email to the school before Day One.

Arrival time on the first day and parking arrangements (others: who to meet, morning-tea/lunch info).

Why is doing a trial run to the school during morning rush hour recommended?

To gauge travel time, identify bottlenecks, and ensure punctuality on Day One.

Name four items on the ‘Leaving the house’ checklist for PEx Day One.

Appropriate outfit, name badge, PEx file, and lunch/snacks (others: letters for MT/principal, writing tools, hat).

What is the Professional Observation Guide (POG)?

A sequence of observation topics and questions guiding your focus across the seven PEx days, including 3R reflection prompts.

What does the 3R framework for academic reflection stand for?

Record, Reflect, Relate (analyse/relate to theory).

During PEx, when your mentor teacher (MT) has Duties Other Than Teaching (DOTT), what should you do?

Ask to accompany the students to specialist classes or visit another classroom for observation.

State two professional ‘No-nos’ while on PEx beyond Day One.

Using phones/social media during the day and leaving school grounds without permission (others: smoking).

What must you do if you are absent due to illness on a PEx day?

Notify the school, MT, and PEx Coordinator, complete a Notification of Absence form with documentation, and arrange a make-up day if possible.

Who should you contact in case of a medical emergency during PEx?

ECU Professional Experience Office on 0417 358 985.

List three personal qualities that largely determine your success on PEx.

Enthusiasm, organisation, and willingness to act on advice (others: application, readiness to extend oneself).

Why is maintaining professionalism during PEx vital for all ECU education students?

Because each PST’s conduct affects ECU’s reputation and future access to schools for placements.