Students critically examine contemporary educational issues, theories and trends as they influence secondary educators today. One of the requirements of this course includes a research project that places students in observation of and contact with in-service secondary teachers and schools. 304 Psychological Foundations of Education Students examine educational and psychological principles and theories applicable to learning. Particular attention is given to such areas as human growth and development, motivation and theories of learning and teaching, with emphasis on the secondary classroom setting. Students explore and practice specific curriculum and instruction models endemic to their concentration field based on current, sound educational research.
Course addresses chemical use, abuse and addiction within the school setting.
Topics include overview of chemical use and abuse, addiction, educators as enablers, prevention education, teaching life skills and the education relationship to community resources. Lectures, discussion and group projects. In a discussion format, students research and analyze creative strategies to meet the complex problems that will invade their secondary classrooms. Distractions that hinder individual and group learning are examined, including child abuse, apathy, poor self-discipline, power struggles, violence and rebellion. The primary course case-textbook will be personal, anecdotal case studies recorded from the student's own student teaching experiences from the previous semester, coupled with current research.