Learning Theories, Diversity and Differentiation
UndergraduateCUR-EDC2452020
Course information for 2020 intake View information for 2025 course intake
Consider history, philosophy, government policies, and inclusive education theory to form confidence in creating teaching and assessment strategies for learners from diverse cognitive and cultural backgrounds.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Learning Theories, Diversity and Differentiation
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students will be able to:
- explain key concepts associated with contemporary theoretical perspectives on human learning
- examine the history, philosophy, benefits, processes, government policies, research and theoretical foundations of inclusive education
- plan differentiated instruction and assessment from a strength based perspective, utilising knowledge regarding human learning and diverse abilities to meet the needs of a diverse group of learners
- integrate effective, research based, teaching and assessment strategies and methods appropriate for learners from diverse cultural backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
- Diversity and inclusion
- Diversity due to physical aspects and health conditions
- Cognitive diversity
- Social, emotional, behavioural and sensory diversity
- Sociocultural diversity
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives
- Differentiating curriculum: individualised and universal design pedagogies
- Using Behaviourist perspectives to support diverse learners
- Using Cognitivist/Constructivist perspectives to support learner differences through classroom practices
- Using Cognitivist/Constructivist perspectives to support learner differences through curriculum choices
- Using Humanist perspectives to engage a diverse classroom of learners
- Approaching learner engagement and assessment with a holistic perspective
- Review and reflection
This subject provides an overview of theoretical perspectives on human learning including behaviourism, humanism, constructivism and cognitivism, from historical and current perspectives. Each set of theoretical assumptions is evaluated based on scientific evidence and explored in terms of practical applications to promote learning in educational environments with a specific focus on the underlying principles of inclusive education and social justice, including effective preparation of all students to transition effectively as productive members of society. Current Australian and international education and human rights policies are reviewed with the aim of equipping educators with the awareness, knowledge and skills to support appropriate education for all students utilising a student/family centred, strength based approach. The theoretical foundations are built upon with learning opportunities to develop competencies in all aspects of inclusive education.
Please Note: If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.
Find out more about the Academic Integrity module.
- Report (50%)
- Essay (50%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Prior study
You must have successfully completed the following subject(s) before starting this subject:
Equivalent subjects
You won't be able to enrol into this subject if you've already successfully completed or currently enrolled in the following subject(s) as they are considered anti-requisites due to the similarity of the content.
CUR-EDC251-Inclusive Education (no longer available)
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
Student feedback
13 student respondents between 20 May - 3 June 2024.
92%of students felt the study load was manageable
84%of students felt this subject helped them gain relevant skills