Developmental educators in practice: Informing curriculum renewal in the Bachelor of Disability and Developmental Education (BDDE)

This study sought to gain insight and perspectives on the current practice of developmental educators across Australia. Findings informed curriculum renewal in the Bachelor of Disability and Developmental Education at Flinders University, to ensure our graduates are best prepared for professional practice.

Semi-structured interviews with six Developmental Educators revealed the skills required to perform the range of roles required. These included advanced skills in positive behaviour support, assessment, therapeutic support, goal setting, transition planning and advocacy, with findings used to inform the development of topics in the curriculum at Flinders University to best align to the Scope of Practice for Developmental Education (2023).