Elementary Education (4-8) MS

Goal 1: The student will demonstrate an understanding of young adolescent learner development.

Outcome 1.1: The student will understand and accurately interpret key concepts, principles, theories, and research about young adolescent development in social context.

Outcome 1.2: The student will identify the diverse developmental needs and abilities of 4-8 learners and use this information effectively when selecting instructional strategies and making curricular decisions.

Goal 2: The student will understand and use the central concepts, standards, research, and structures of content to plan and implement curriculum that develops all young adolescents’ competence in subject matter.

Outcome 2.1: The student will describe and explain the philosophical foundations of middle level education and apply this knowledge in analyzing classroom management and instructional design.

Goal 3: The student will understand and use developmentally appropriate instructional strategies.

Outcome 3.1: The student will describe and analyze a range of specific teaching strategies and apply them appropriately in instructional planning, modifying their use based on the unique learning needs of middle school students.

Outcome 3.2: The student will demonstrate a practiced habit of self-analysis and collaboration with students and colleagues to assess the impact of instruction on student motivation and learning and will adjust teaching accordingly.

Goal 4: The student will demonstrate understanding and effective use of multiple methods of assessment.

Outcome 4.1: The student will define and describe types of valid and reliable educational assessments (including screening, diagnostic, formative, summative, and authentic) and identify strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate uses associated with each.

Outcome 4.2: The student will analyze and interpret assessment data to understand patterns and gaps in learning, to guide planning and instruction, and to provide meaningful feedback to learners and their guardians.

Goal 5: The student will demonstrate an understanding of educating for social justice.

Outcome 5.1: The student will describe key elements of interacting positively and respectfully with those of different racial, ethnic, language, and socioeconomic backgrounds and sexual orientations.

Outcome 5.2: The student will identify and describe practices and policies that reinforce inequalities and undermine 4-8 student learning, as well as steps that can be taken to challenge such practices in order to create a more just society.

4-8 Major Content Requirements

Students must choose one or two disciplines and take additional introductory and advanced courses in order to be certified to teach the selected subject(s). The following options are available:

Option 1: One concentration and three generalist academic content areas.

This option for teacher candidates is to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours in one of the four content areas of mathematics, science, English/language arts and reading or social studies as well as 12 credits in each of the three remaining content areas.

Option 2: Concentration in two content areas

The second option permitted under the Elementary/Middle Level program design requires a concentration in two content areas. Teacher candidates are to complete a minimum of 21 credits in each content area concentration, as well as 12 credits in each of the two remaining content areas.