The Professional Semester: Teaching and Research Methods

Catalog description

The focus of this seminar is on applying knowledge and skills that students have gained in their previous coursework to the everyday work of teaching in elementary or middle-level classrooms, specifically interpersonal communication and professionalism, design of developmentally appropriate instructional units, adaptation of units to accommodate learner differences, assessment and evaluation of learning outcomes, and classroom management. An action research project that responds to a teaching dilemma, concern, question, or interest is also required. Topics are addressed in the context of the broader skills of problem solving and educational decision making that must be informed by educational research. Specific issues that arise from the student-teaching experience (taken concurrently) are addressed. Emphasis is placed on helping the student make the transition from theory to practice. This seminar is open only to seniors who have been accepted into Stage II candidacy, completion of all required courses in accordance with the criteria outlined in the Department of Education Student Handbook.