CTF inaugurates a pedagogy project designed to support teachers in French-language schools in minority settings

OTTAWA, Sept. 25, 2014 /CNW/ - Tomorrow morning, for the first time in the history of French-language education, the Canadian Teachers' Federation (CTF) will introduce Francophone teachers to a major project that defines pedagogy in Francophone minority settings in Canada.

The Convention of the Association canadienne d'éducation de langue française (ACELF) taking place in Halifax is in fact the perfect opportunity to present the findings of four years of work to the approximately 600 participants expected from across Canada and from all spheres of French-language education.

The Pédagogie à l'école de langue française (PELF) (pedagogy in French-language schools) project stemmed from the Francophone community's desire to have a pedagogy specific to minority settings. The Education ministries from all provinces and territories where French is the language of the minority naturally turned to CTF to undertake this ambitious project.

Information about the launch:
When:	Friday, September 26, at 8:30 a.m.
Where:	Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, 1919 Upper Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3J5
Who:	Dianne Woloschuk, CTF President

"Four years later, we realize that it was a wise decision, confirms CTF President Dianne Woloschuk. It was essential to have teachers involved in the development of this project as it is aimed primarily at them. We did receive support from prominent researchers in the field who offered their guidance, but we wanted to make sure teachers played a leadership role, she adds. CTF is also grateful to ministries for their financial support throughout the development stage. Such a project would not be possible without strong partnerships."

Both the audiovisual production and the Web concept that showcases the PELF received valuable support. "Les Productions Rivard, Inc. played a key role in making this pedagogy a practical one by recording videos across Canada. An agreement with TFO allowed us to work with this Winnipeg-based production company which was familiar with the minority context that we wanted to highlight," says the President. As for the website, pelf.ca (in French only), which showcases this pedagogy, it is the work of the Groupe des technologies de l'apprentissage, a multidisciplinary task force on learning technologies from the University of Moncton, recognized as a leader in learning content mediatization and website development. "We owe them a great deal, says Woloschuk. Without this hard-working team, it would have been difficult to introduce this pedagogy in a way that allows all teachers, wherever they are in Canada, to make it their own".

The PELF site, pelf.ca, offers "training paths" for teachers who seek guidance for successful learning as well as "teachable moments" for people who prefer to explore this pedagogy in a more intuitive manner. A "personal space" allows teachers in French-language schools where French is the language of the minority to both organize their learning and share ideas with colleagues from across Canada, if they wish.

"The PELF is a milestone in the evolution of French-language education in minority settings in Canada, adds Dianne Woloschuk. It takes into consideration the reality of today's young Francophones and is based on the most conclusive research on the matter. We hope that this pedagogy will have the intended rallying effect to allow the Francophonie to continue to establish itself and take its rightful place."

The Canadian Teachers' Federation is an alliance of nearly 200,000 elementary and secondary educators from 17 organizations (15 Members, one Affiliate Member and one Associate Member across Canada). CTF is also a member of Education International, a global alliance of educators. Follow CTF on Twitter: @CanTeachersFed and @EnseigneCanada.

SOURCE: Canadian Teachers' Federation

Comments: Dianne Woloschuk, CTF President; Information: Ronald Boudreau, Director of Services to Francophones; Contact: Francine Filion, Director of Communications, 613-688-4314 (office) or 613-899-4247 (cell)