Spheres of Influence: Ventures and Visions in Educational Development*3-6 July, 2002 AbstractTeacher educationMarija Bratanic, University of Zagreb, Croatia The holistic paradigm demands changes in pedagogical theory as well as educational practice. First of all, it is necessary to change our perception, consideration, cognition, activities, in one word, a complete approach to teaching and learning as inseparable parts of a unique educational process. The new approach emphasises human relation as the foundation of education. Education is predestinated by interaction and communication in an interpersonal relationship and depends primarily on the personality of teacher. The importance of the role of teachers to realize changes has never been more obvious than today, especially those who educate and qualify future teachers. Good teaching can not be reduce to a technique; good teaching comes from the identity and integrity of teacher (Palmer, 1998). The presented action research has taken place in the natural teaching situation of pedagogical course during one academic year. There are many factors that influence teaching and interpersonal relationship between teacher and student as well as among students themselves. In this research these factors were restricted to the empathy and knowledge style which were tested and observed. The essay was one of the qualitative method to get an insight into the student's inner experience of teaching/learning process in pedagogical course as well as changes within. The obtained results point out considerable importance of connectedness and dialogue in teaching. They motivate to enhance the teacher education on the holistic paradigm moving from more conventional courses to more student-centred ones. The teachers' role, especially those who teach future teachers, is being changed from only transmitting the knowledge to the way of facilitating learning and development of complete personality. Holistic approach to pedagogical course in teacher education as well as educational development in higher education requests synchronizing teaching and learning and harmonizing interpersonal relationship among all participants. Key words: Objectives, outcomes and activities:
Marija Bratanic, PhD., University Professor, has lectured Pedagogy to the future teachers at University of Zagreb. She obtained a master's degree in 1975 and doctor's degree in 1980. A good part of her professional life she has dedicated to research and study the 'mystery' of education trying to improve the pedagogical course in teacher education. Special areas of her scientific interest are the interpersonal relationship, interaction and communication in teaching, empathy and educational development in higher education. Contact: Marija Bratanic, email: marija.bratanic1@zg.tel.hr |