Conduct and compile research about a contested topic in the field of education (topic and questions to be submitted in advance). Consider critically the topic, e.g., its pros & cons or its proponents or critics. Consider the course tenets of knowing, learning and teaching. Share your research in a multi-media presentation* -- be creative! -- and facilitate engagement and discussion among your colleagues. (Peer and instructor feedback will be provided.) Material should contribute to e-portfolio.

* Multi-media: The combined use of media – means for communicating or diffusing information – may include film, technology, print, theatrical or musical interpretation, etc.

 Criteria
Meets expectations
Exceeds expectations
Conduct and compile research about a contested topic in education.

•compilation of research shows clear understanding of the topic

•strategic compilation of research shows insight into the topic
Present research on a contested topic in education in a multi-media presentation. • multi-media presentation is complete and effectively conveys the researched material • multi-media presentation is complete and innovatively showcases the researched material
Consider the course tenets of knowing, learning and teaching. • links are made to the course tenets • insightful links are made to the course tenets
Make reference to the literature treating this notion. • references to the literature support various aspects of the topic •references to the literature are used effectively to support all aspects of the topic
Consider critically the topic, e.g., its pros & cons or its proponents or critics. • evidence of critical consideration •convincing evidence of critical consideration
Prepare and facilitate engagement/ discussion among your colleagues. • evidence of preparation & practice

• collegial involvement is facilitated		 •evidence of extensive preparation & practice

• collegial involvement is expertly facilitated

FSA Testing & Fraser Institute.

Topics considered:

- FSA testing: BC Government, BCTF, students, parents and the Fraser Institute
- Core French: why is it in such bad shape?
- Is integration of all students good for all students?
- French immersion: an exclusive/elitist program?
- Black Focus Schools: arguments for and against
- Elementary Core French: continue? replace? fix?
- Programs of choice in the public system: Montessori
- French immersion as a program in evolution; diversification of population
- Independent schools versus public schools: pros, cons, similarities, differences
- What are enhancement agreements? Do they serve the needs of aboriginal learners?
- French Immersion parents: Issues, challenges, strategies
- Specialist versus generalist teachers (Music, French, PE.) at the elementary level
- Wellness in schools: Is this a focus? Should it be?
French Immersion Parents: Issues, challenges
   
One station in a carousel presentation about standardized testing:
Brent Davis argues that using a model of European pedagogy might by the solution to the problems facing the Canadian education system. This article, published by the BC Teachers Federation, explains that Finland is ranked first in the world in terms of "Education and Skills", yet it uses no standardized testing.
Do you think that Sihota and Soberg were justified in speaking out against standardized testing?