In the past, the three-hour class time was used to lecture and show videos about topics related to teaching careers. In contrast, Dr. Marshall's section now uses class time to search Penn State and the surrounding communities to locate and employ information from people and places which seem pertinent to the four course topics. For example, when the class deals with mainstreaming exceptional children into regular classes, the students might arrange to visit and observe classes at State College High School. Instead of the instructor transferring information to the student, this course expects students to take ownership of the material by discovering it on their own. By expecting the students to participate in the design of the curriculum of the course, students are actively engaged in research and decision-making activities that build skills crucial to their future professions.
Students assume much of the responsibility for creating their own individualized classroom.
As a result, they learn responsibility and how to put theory into practice.