Middle Childhood Education Teaching Licensure Program

This course explores the profession of education and examines the state, federal, and institutional standards that guide the profession. Students will examine the psychological, sociological, and philosophical foundations of education as they relate to learning. Topics of discussion and analysis include the development of individual differences; atmosphere of respect; understanding students' needs grouping, education of minorities; how the teacher creates instructional opportunities that are equitable and adaptable to diverse learners; exploring the components of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.

This course provides students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the philosophical, historical, and legal foundations of special education as well as an understanding of the characteristics of learners who have special needs; explore and define the concepts of special education in schools and society, and acquire knowledge about the legal and procedural aspects of special education and develop an understanding and respect for individual needs and diversity. Students relate multicultural issues, beliefs, and practices to the needs of the student with mild/moderate disabilities, explore crisis intervention/prevention models and strategies and examine conflict resolution. This course presents students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the issues relating to developing and encouraging positive social interaction skills, issues relating to the diverse emotional needs of students with mild/moderate disabilities, and issues relating to student behavior.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of lesson planning techniques, equipping pre-service teachers with the skills to design effective and engaging lessons for diverse student populations. Students will examine and apply various lesson planning models, such as direct/explicit instruction, concept attainment, concept development, vocabulary acquisition, and cooperative learning. Advanced lesson planning models will be introduced, including the integrative model, inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, inductive model, and Socratic seminar. Students will apply knowledge of information processing and social cognitive theories to lesson plans to improve student attention, engagement, and acquisition of knowledge. Emphasis will be placed on writing and delivering lessons aligned with educational standards, integrating assessments, and incorporating best practices to create dynamic and inclusive learning experiences. By the end of the course, students will evaluate and develop lesson plans using multiple instructional models.

This course is designed to emphasize the connectivity of technology to the classroom and the general curriculum. Students will explore programs that will aid them in classroom management, data collection, student-produced work, creating instructional tools, and administration of classroom responsibilities. Students will develop products that can be used to support their teaching and the learning process of their students.

This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills to effectively evaluate and implement various classroom assessment techniques. Students will explore a comprehensive range of assessment methods, including diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments, to understand their characteristics, purposes, strengths, and limitations. Emphasis will be placed on the selection and creation of reliable assessments that synchronize with instructional objectives and cognitive demands, utilizing both traditional and innovative digital tools. Participants will learn to critically analyze assessment data to gauge teaching effectiveness and make informed instructional decisions. This course also focuses on the development of valid and reliable grading rubrics to ensure consistent and objective evaluation of student work. Additionally, students will gain skills in interpreting results from standardized tests to refine teaching practices and enhance educational outcomes. Through these activities, students will cultivate a deep understanding of assessment as a tool for both guiding and improving student learning and instructional strategies.

This course is required for students seeking an Education Studies Bachelor?s Degree or students seeking an in initial teaching license. This course focuses on the principles and theories which influence teaching and learning in the PK-12 classroom. Students will develop an understanding of the range of individual differences in the classroom and their implication on instruction and classroom environment.

This course is required for prospective teachers seeking an initial teaching license. The course examines all aspects of instructional planning and examines the common strategies teachers employ to conduct their lessons. It assumes students have a deep understanding of the content they will teach and an extensive understanding and appreciation of the students with whom they will work. The overriding purpose of the course resides in the transformation of content and behavioral objectives into sequences of instructional activities that make it accessible to students.

The professional growth and development practicum is the field portion of the student teaching experience designed to meet the requirements for licensure. The practicum is an in-depth clinical laboratory experience that provides opportunities to observe, analyze, plan, and practice teaching methods in a school setting. The experience enables the teacher candidate to move through stages of increased responsibilities under the guidance and with the support of a cooperating teacher and a university supervisor.

This course is required for prospective teachers seeking an initial teaching license. The course explores the development from learning-to-read to using reading to learn. It investigates the role of vocabulary instruction, comprehension, study skills, and the writing process. It also addresses the assessment of textbooks, the reading process, and student motivation.

This course is required for prospective teachers seeking an initial teaching license. The course comprehensively explores effective literacy instruction techniques, focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, morphology, syntax, and structured language instruction. Through a series of modules, students will expand their understanding of these concepts' theoretical foundations and practical applications, learning to design, implement, and assess language and literacy lessons for diverse learners. Emphasis is placed on understanding the importance of phonics, word awareness, syntax, high-frequency words in literacy development, and strategies for supporting English Language Learners.

This course is required for prospective teachers seeking an initial teaching license. The course examines the development of communication skills in early learners, from listening and speaking to reading and writing. It presents frameworks aligned with the science-based principles of early literacy development, encompassing components of Structured Literacy, incorporating evidence-based strategies that promote effective reading and writing instruction.

This course is required for students who are seeking an initial teaching license. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of literacy assessment techniques and instructional strategies essential for effective reading instruction. Students will engage in hands-on activities to analyze various reading assessment data, including phonological awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, to inform instructional decision-making. Through a combination of readings, discussions, simulations, and practical assignments, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to assess diverse learners' reading abilities and plan targeted interventions aligned with best practices in literacy instruction. Topics covered include the Outcomes-Based Model, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), assessment types, progress monitoring tools, and evidence-based instructional approaches. Additionally, students will explore the role of phonemic awareness, orthographic mapping, word recognition, and vocabulary development in reading instruction. This course emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessment, differentiation, and collaboration with colleagues and families to support students' literacy development across grade levels and diverse learning environments.

This course explores the foundational principles and evidence-based practices essential for effective literacy instruction in today's diverse classrooms. This course equips future educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster literacy success for all learners, from early childhood to adolescence. Through a comprehensive exploration of the science of reading, explicit instruction techniques, and the diverse landscape of children's and adolescent literature, students will gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of literacy acquisition and instruction.

This course is the first of a two-course sequence required of all candidates for licensing as teachers of Elementary Education or Intervention Specialist. Each course focuses on the conceptual structures underlying the teaching and learning of standards-based mathematics in the elementary grades. MATH 113 addresses the conceptual structures for Counting & Cardinality, the Base-10 Number System, Measurement, and Area & Perimeter.

This course introduces you to statistics with applications to various areas. The course covers both descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics included are: sampling techniques, data types, experiments; measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, graphical displays of data, basic probability concepts, binomial and normal probability distributions, sampling distributions and Central Limit Theorem; confidence intervals, hypothesis tests of a mean, or a proportion for one or two populations, and linear regression.

A study of the basic concepts of algebra including factoring, graphing, equations, inequalities, ratio and proportion and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, complex numbers, and some elementary topics in theory of equations.

This course introduces students to fundamental algebraic, logical, and combinational concepts in mathematics that are needed in upper-division computer science courses. Topics include sets, mappings, and relations; elementary counting principles; proof techniques with an emphasis on mathematical induction; graphs and directed graphs; Boolean algebras; recursion; and applications to computer science.

A study of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries as a logical system of undefined terms, defined terms, axioms, and theorems. This course is only available through the Acadeum Course Share platform as a part of the University's membership in the Council of Independent Colleges' Online Course Sharing Consortium (CIC-OCSC). Please contact your academic advisor for more information.

This course is designed to prepare students for Applied Calculus and Discrete Mathematics and to provide the mathematical background needed for the analytic reasoning used in other courses. Topics include functions and their graphs, including exponential and logarithmic functions; complex numbers; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; basic principles of counting and probability; and other selected topics. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

This course is the second of a two-course sequence required of all candidates for licensing as teachers of Elementary Education or Intervention Specialist. Each course focuses on the conceptual structures underlying the teaching and learning of standards-based mathematics in the elementary grades. MATH 222 addresses the conceptual structures for rational number operations, algebraic reasoning, geometry, probability, and statistics.

A survey of the major historical periods in civilization from early beginnings to circa 1500 A.D. Students will gain perspectives of world civilization in addition to Western cultural focuses. This survey will integrate art, philosophy, science, and history into meaningful themes.

A survey of the major historical periods in civilization from circa 1500 A.D. to the present. Students will gain perspectives of world civilization in addition to Western cultural focuses. This survey will integrate art, philosophy, science, and history into meaningful themes.

An exploration of the development of the social and cultural history of the United States from the colonial period to today. Emphasis is placed upon the United States' diverse peoples and the cultural forces that shaped their daily lives. Special attention will be given to: Native American, African Americans, Reform Movements, Popular Culture, with emphasis on race, class, gender, ethnicity, technology, environment, industrialization, urbanization, immigration, migration and wars.

The course examines the complex political and legal environment of public administration. Students learn how politics, law, and the structure and principles of American government impact citizens, public policy, and the administration of public and nonprofit organizations. Students apply fundamental political theories and administrative law principles in administrative contexts. Students pursuing the Public Administration major should take this course prior to beginning their specialization course work.

An introductory course concerning the structure and function of state and local government in the United States. Special attention is focused on the relation between governmental structure, citizen access to government, political resources, and political outcomes.

World Religions is a comparative study of the founders, sacred writings, beliefs and practices of some of the major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity. This course enables the student to study and compare the leading religions of the world in light of their historical and cultural backgrounds. Students will be encouraged to explore faith traditions other than their own. Common themes across religions, spiritual practice, and current related cultural and political issues will also be considered.

This course exposes students to the principles, concepts, research methods, and applications of cultural anthropology. Students will be introduced to the wide range of variation in social and institutional arrangements found historically and cross-culturally. From language to gender roles, from bases of social stratification to causes and consequences of conformity, from the simpler life in foraging societies to the seeming-chaos in modern post-industrial societies: students will examine the enormous variation in solutions to the requisites of social life.

An introduction to economic theory involving the examination of how decision making by firms and individuals is shaped by economic forces. Emphasis is placed on demand, supply, market equilibrium analysis, and basic market structure models. The invisible hand as the driving force for economic decisions as well as market externalities are discussed. The class concentrates on providing a balanced approach to studying economic agents' behavior and the global implications and outcomes.

This course is an introduction to the major themes, processes, and methods common to all scientific disciplines. The student will develop the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and evaluate all kinds of phenomena, scientific, pseudoscientific, and other. The focus is on the nature of science so students will develop an understanding of how science works and develop an appreciation for the process by which we gain scientific knowledge.

This course is an introduction to critical thinking on statistical and scientific claims. You will develop the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and evaluate popular sources of (mis)information and to better understand and evaluate all sorts of scientific claims and arguments. The focus of the course is on you developing thoughtful and critical use of scientific information and research to be able to separate truth from deception and make decisions that affect your personal life and role as an informed and engaged citizen.

This course introduces the fundamental principles of chemistry that underpin further study in the chemical, physical, and biological sciences. Topics include measurement and scientific notation, atomic structure, chemical nomenclature, periodic trends, stoichiometry, chemical bonding, properties of gases, and an introduction to thermodynamics. Emphasis is placed on quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and the application of chemical principles to real-world and scientific contexts. Students develop skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and the interpretation of chemical phenomena, preparing them for advanced coursework in science and pre-professional programs. The laboratory component is integrated with the lecture and reinforces core concepts through hands-on experimentation, quantitative analysis, and data interpretation. Students apply proper chemical hygiene and safety practices, including relevant OSHA and EPA guidelines, while developing technical laboratory skills, accurate measurement techniques, and effective scientific communication.

A non-refundable science fee of $5o will be added upon registration.

This course examines the diversity, structure, function, and evolution of the animal kingdom. Topics include major animal phyla, comparative anatomy and physiology, developmental patterns, and evolutionary relationships among invertebrate and vertebrate organisms. Emphasis is placed on understanding how form and function are integrated across levels of biological organization and how animals interact with their environments. Students develop skills in scientific reasoning, comparative analysis, and the interpretation of biological diversity, with connections to ecology, behavior, and evolutionary biology. The laboratory component reinforces lecture concepts through hands-on investigation of animal structure and diversity. Students engage in observation, dissection, and comparative analysis, developing skills in anatomical identification, data collection, and scientific communication while adhering to appropriate laboratory safety practices.

A non-refundable science fee of $50 will be added upon registration.

This lab course focuses on current trends in the relationship between human society and the environment, highlighting the contributions and limits of science in identifying and solving environmental problems, such as food and water scarcity, deforestation, resource degradation, and climate change. Critical analysis of opposing environmental claims and perspectives helps students apply the general background they receive in class to society's ongoing environmental discussions. Topics considered include ecological principles of sustainability, alternative energy sources, resource-use efficiency, consumption and waste reduction, environmental policy, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. Course used as a part of the Associate of Applied Science curriculum.

This course introduces the fundamental principles of geology, focusing on the materials of the Earth and the dynamic processes that shape its structure and surface over time. Topics include minerals and rocks, plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, surface processes such as weathering and erosion, and the geologic history of the Earth. Emphasis is placed on understanding Earth as an integrated system and applying geologic principles to interpret past and present environmental change. Students develop skills in scientific reasoning, observation, and the interpretation of geologic data, with connections to natural resources, environmental sustainability, and geologic hazards. The laboratory component is integrated with the lecture and reinforces key concepts through hands-on investigation of geologic materials and processes. Students engage in mineral and rock identification, map interpretation, and analysis of geologic data while developing practical skills and adhering to appropriate laboratory safety practices.

A non-refundable science fee of $5o will be added upon registration.

A study of the cell, its membrane, organelles, and the biochemical and energy producing processes that occur within it. The morphological differences of cell populations will be considered, including diseases that result from abnormal morphological changes. This course is only available through the Acadeum Course Share platform as a part of the University's membership in the Council of Independent Colleges' Online Course Sharing Consortium (CIC-OCSC). Please contact your academic advisor for more information.

A study of literary periods beginning with the New Consciousness (1865) to contemporary literature with emphasis on the contributions of primary writers in exploring themes, characters, and situations common to American literature. Not open to students with credit for ENG 310. This course is only available through the Acadeum Course Share platform as a part of the University's membership in the Council of Independent Colleges' Online Course Sharing Consortium (CIC-OCSC). Please contact your academic advisor for more information.

A study of Old and Middle English authors, and early and later Renaissance authors. Emphasis is on major writers and their works, with some coverage of literary history. Not open to students with credit for ENG 312. This course is only available through the Acadeum Course Share platform as a part of the University's membership in the Council of Independent Colleges' Online Course Sharing Consortium (CIC-OCSC). Please contact your academic advisor for more information.

This is an intermediate course focusing on the composition of research papers. Students in this course prepare to be active participants in professional discourse communities by examining and practicing the writing conventions associated with their own fields of study and work. By calling attention to the conventions of disciplinary writing, the course also prepares students for upper-division college writing and the special conventions of advanced academic discourse. Course activities include three extended research papers, semi-formal writing addressing interdisciplinary communication, and readings fostering critical engagement with disciplinary conversations.

A survey of linguistic terminology and practice in linguistic analysis, with an historical survey of the history of English from its beginnings in 450 A.D. to modern times. Emphasis will be on morphology, syntax, semantics, and language variation. This course is only available through the Acadeum Course Share platform as a part of the University's membership in the Council of Independent Colleges' Online Course Sharing Consortium (CIC-OCSC). Please contact your academic advisor for more information.

This course is a study in academic and professional writing, with an emphasis on designing and reporting primary research. Students will also examine and produce professional documents such as CVs, personal statements, and research agendas.

By using applied critical and creative thinking, students in this course will develop a set of communication skills that will enhance their personal and professional relationships and endeavors. This course will focus on skill development in key areas such as self, perception, listening, verbal messages, conversations, relationships, conflict management, persuasion, and presentation skills.

This is an advanced composition course focusing on writing for business and professional purposes. Students will review the writing conventions commonly expected within business and professional environments, as well as strategies for analyzing rhetorical situations within those environments. Coursework includes analysis, revision, and research exercises, as well as substantial practice in composing business correspondence. The final project is an extensive, researched business proposal developed in stages and presented to the class. Students will be encouraged to relate course materials to their major programs and workplace experiences.