55-510 Foundations of Elementary Education

This course investigates the knowledge necessary to become an effective teacher in elementary or middle school classrooms. It focuses on the importance of having a developmental perspective on planning, learning and learning problems. This includes understanding the behaviorist and cognitive perspectives of learning, having a knowledge of group dynamics and developing a positive approach to classroom management including all of the essential components of effective planning, teaching and assessment. Content covers theories of learning, motivation, personality, growth, development and intelligence, including the impact of cognitive, emotional, physical and sensory disabilities on learning. Assessment and basic descriptive statistics are addressed as well as IDEA and the special education referral process. An emphasis on professional dialogue and collaboration encourages candidates to actively apply theoretical information to a variety of learning situations. This course also covers the role of the middle school teacher in the assessment, coordination, and referral of students to health and social services. The candidate will explore the challenges of learner diversity and learn how to meet the needs of exceptional and at-risk learners, including English language learners. Discussion of teaching strategies, child development and the application of theoretical knowledge to classroom teaching will be emphasized, practiced, and evaluated.

Credits

6

Prerequisite

Consent of M.A. Elementary Education Director.