Candidates examine the implications of research and theories of growth and development in the program courses. Special emphasis is given to developmental stages and patterns of development in the cognitive, affective, physical, and social domains. Theories related to development include those of authorities such as Piaget, Erikson, Kohlberg, Flavell, and Selman. Observations of children and adolescents help candidates internalize the theories. Candidates in the program study how the theories relate to teaching methods and learning of students at different stages of growth and development.
Candidates also study behaviorist and cognitive learning theories.
They are guided in the program to identify student s learning methods and to plan activities appropriate for each student s needs and build on their strengths. During EDEL 315 and EDSC 310 candidates participate in 60 hours of fieldwork in a general education classroom. They are required to keep a journal of various observations and tasks. Candidates consideration of the role of culture and language in the community and in the school is reflected in the individual journal entries. Core General Education courses Candidates are prepared to attend to cognitive and affective outcomes of instruction in the language arts and in other subject areas.