Introduction to Teaching Methods and Leadership

Catalog description

Introduction to Teaching Methods and Leadership prepares candidates for entry into the teaching profession. Throughout the course, candidates are introduced to a range of topics, including: a history of education in the United States and education reform, the purposes of education, theories about learning, general pedagogy including lesson planning, instruction, and assessment, developing a positive learning environment, classroom community, and culture, teaching literacy and subject-specific pedagogy, technology in education, human development, and differentiating instruction with a focus on meeting the needs of English Learners and students with special needs. Further, the course builds a foundation of culturally responsive teaching that will serve as a framework for learning throughout the entirety of the Intern Program. As part of their coursework, candidates examine their attitudes and biases, and consider how their life experiences and cultures might impact their teaching. Finally, candidates develop a philosophy of education and a portfolio of strategies for teaching for equity. The course is asynchronous with the exception of a synchronous launch at the beginning of the course and weekly office hours/coworking opportunities (of which Reach University Course Catalog 2026-27 13 candidates are required to attend two). During the synchronous touchpoints, candidates will have the opportunity to meet instructors, colleagues and prepare for success in future courses and the start of the school year. This pre-service course introduces the professional standards for teaching (the California Teacher Performance Expectations, or “TPEs”) and begins to engage candidates in reflecting on their developing teaching practice in relation to the TPEs. Completion of INT 610 meets the California standards for Intern Program Pre-service hours and results in Intern Credential eligibility if all other entrance requirements are met. Previous Course Code: Reach 210