Middle grades programs, which have been developed and implemented collaboratively, integrate strong academic preparation grounded in a liberal arts tradition, discipline studies, and pedagogical studies while providing diverse school-based and clinical experiences. These programs foster the development of knowledge, skills, and understandings required of the professional learning facilitator who designs and implements an integrated instructional program for the middle grades learner that is developmentally and culturally responsive. Understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structure of the disciplines and their specific teaching field disciplines for grades 4-8. 2. Understands the philosophical, historical, social, psychological, and pedagogical principles that guide instructional decisions that facilitates learning and fosters the development of middle grade learners. Applies understandings of discipline knowledge and the principles of pedagogy to constructing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that will facilitate the success of all middle grades learners.
Exhibits commitment to professionalism in teaching.