A learning architecture framework (LAF) for developing community, engagement and professional identity for pre-service teachers

To support students completing their practicum placements as part of a one-year Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary), a community of practice (CoP) framework was developed by adopting a Learning Architecture Framework based on the work of Wenger. Through this framework, student interaction and structured dialogue were facilitated that enabled professional conversations and peer-to-peer learning offering mutual engagement, emotional support, feedback and scope for reflection. Data collected in the form of podcast recordings and blog entries of critical incidents created by the students while on practicum, as well as post-practicum focus group discussions, attests strongly to the effectiveness of this approach in developing online communities to support the professional development of pre-service teachers.