Students' knowledge in the major content areas of health education is enhanced. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of body systems, diseases, human development, hygiene, safety, nutrition, mental health careers and other health factors. Students acquire knowledge and skills in the content and methods of teaching health education to the young child. Emphasis is placed on the nature and development of the health education program for elementary grades. Students examine substance abuses from the pharmacological, physiological, psychological, sociological and philosophical aspects of drugs.
Students learn the human perspectives of sexuality and health promotion.
Human sexuality is studied using the basic anatomy and physiology of reproduction, interpersonal relationships, identifying sexually transmitted disease and understanding sexual activity throughout one's life span. Health promotion is designed to assess one's health habits and practices and examine modifications needed for improvements. Prospective teachers utilize the skills necessary to organize, conduct and evaluate developmentally appropriate health education programs for elementary, middle, and high school levels. Students demonstrate effective uses of varied teaching strategies, innovative curriculum design and pedagogy. Field experience is required.