Individuals come to ETEP from a wide variety of backgrounds and with a broad array of life experiences. They may be recent graduates or career changers. The teacher education faculty believes that the process of teaching is actually a process of learning. Effective teaching is grounded in knowledge, experience, critical reflection, and a commitment to preparing children and youth for the future. Such teaching encourages inquiry that leads to independent thinking.
Teaching is a complex enterprise.
It is an art, a craft, a science, a collection of skills, and common sense. Teachers and students together foster a lifelong pursuit of learning, which encompasses personal growth and global awareness. The College of Education and Human Development is committed to providing experiences that promote this learning process. Our mission statement represents beliefs that form the foundation for the University of Southern Maine s Extended Teacher Education Program.