Also examines historical and current learning theory. Topics include the significance of early experience, cognitive and personal growth, character development, information processing, and issues related to mainstreaming of special needs students. An emphasis on teaching strategies that will build on the experience of practicing teachers. Examines a rich variety of approaches to instruction, along with supporting research, and provides students with tools to analyze and incorporate the best of the newly emerging teaching methodologies. Particular attention is paid to the characteristics of an effective learning environment, as well as the understanding that how teaching is conducted has an enormous impact on students' ability to educate themselves.
Models of teaching are really models of learning.
The intent is to impart a renewed sense of the intellectual zest inherent in the craft of teaching and to make each model a potential part of a teacher's repertoire. The focus is on synthesizing knowledge learned about curriculum with knowledge gained from professional experience. Emphasis will be given to alternatives to traditional forms of assessment, particularly authentic assessment. Emphasis will also be given to ethical issues in assessment and factors that influence test performance. Students will be required to investigate and discuss current scholarly research on a specific issue in the field of educational measurement and assessment.