This is a broad-based program that prepares school professionals to teach core curriculum subjects including arts, education, health, language arts, mathematics, physical education, science, and social studies at the elementary school level. The program consists of three components: academic courses taken outside the Faculty of Education – these are the
1. General Education Courses that are prescribed for all first and second-year bachelor degree students,
2. Professional courses taken within the Faculty, and
3. In-school classroom experiences.
The Elementary Education Program provides students with knowledge of philosophical and psychological elements of teaching and learning, general and specific methods of instruction, and clinical experiences of at least 100 hours in local schools prior to the full-day student teaching experience.
Upon completion of the Program students will:
1. Gain knowledge of philosophical and educational principles underlying the teaching of elementary students.
2. Gain knowledge and practice methods of teaching elementary students.
3. Qualify for Elementary Education Endorsement
4. Complete 100 clock hours in a local school to earn a student teaching experience.
Program Outcomes:
Students completing the Elementary Education major will:
1. Have theoretical and practical knowledge of principles of curriculum development and design which reflect best practices in elementary schools.
2. Have an understanding of and the skill with children- differentiate instruction of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
3. Know how to plan, implement, and integrate a variety of learning activities for student-centered classrooms.
4. Have attained specialized knowledge of content and instructional materials, as well as skills in using technology in elementary schools.
5. Effectively apply classroom management techniques demonstrating an understanding of collaborative learning strategies and group processes.
6. Have attained skills in designing instruments to assess student performance and in using assessment to improve teaching and learning.
7. Be able to integrate learning activities in contexts that are interesting and meaningful to elementary school students.
8. Be reflective educators who are committed to life-long professional development and growth.
9. Students who complete this program qualify for elementary education licensure.