This practical course focuses on instructional technology applications in education. Emphasis is on integrating Microsoft Office/Google docs applications including Office, internet tools, and emerging and relevant technology (Smartboards, remote response systems, table, mobile devices, etc.) with appropriate pedagogy.
Included in this course is a major study of curricula used in kindergartens. Techniques of instruction will be demonstrated and practiced. Materials appropriate for kindergarten children will be emphasized.
This course examines learning theories and their application to the classroom. It includes the study of human development in the cognitive, emotional, social, and moral domains, the transfer of learning, motivation theories, and individual differences. This course will provide an overview of assessment topics including purposes/types of assessments, the design/implementation of assessments, and the interpretation/analysis of assessment results. Classroom management topics related to classroom climate, establishing expectations, positive relationships, and intervention strategies will be explored.
This course is centered on best practice teaching methods and is required of all majors seeking teacher certification. The basic content of the course includes instruction in National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, lesson planning and delivery, multiple assessment strategies and creating exemplary classroom environments. Course includes a field experience of approximately 35 hours.
Sophomore Standing
At the heart of best practice literacy instruction is a comprehensive understanding of literature for children. This course is an in-depth survey of children's literature grounded in transactional, sociocultural, and reader response theories of reading. Students will read and respond to fiction and nonfiction texts and consider their uses for instruction in K-8 classrooms. Topics include critiques of literary quality and cultural depictions, teaching with graphic novels, technology and literature, the role of nonfiction in classrooms, award-winning books, and the development of ways to use culturally diverse literature.