EDWN603 Teaching and Learning Practices (3 cr.)

This course provides students with the legal and historical perspectives of education to gain an understanding of current roles and responsibilities of a teacher. Students will integrate their knowledge of state standards and effective teaching methodologies related to developmental levels, learning styles, research-based learning strategies, assessment, and classroom management to develop practices that promote learner engagement and skill development for all learners. Students will discuss the impact that positive and productive communication has in building partnerships with families and colleagues to address learners’ social and academic needs. Self-evaluation and professional reflection pertaining to one’s practice as a means of ongoing professional learning will be infused throughout the course.

Upon completion of the course, learners are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Examine the implications of prejudice on minority populations, specifically disability, gender, race, and ethnicity and identify culturally responsive teaching practices. (WTS #2 – Learning Differences) 

2. Identify culturally responsive curricular choices in pedagogy and materials within a course of study. (WTS #2 – Learning Differences) 

3. Identify and communicate appropriate conflict resolution strategies between pupils, staff, and staff/pupils that promote a positive learning environment for all students. (WTS #1 – Pupil Development) 

4. Develop a classroom management plan that includes positive behavioral strategies that will be used to create a learning environment that encourages productive social interactions, active engagement in the learning process and self-motivation. (WTS #3 – Learning Environments) 

5. Develop a philosophy of education applicable to the subject and developmental levels of his/her certification area. (WTS #9 –Professional Learning and Ethical Practice) 

6. Utilize a problem-solving process to solve ethical dilemmas that effectively addresses all stakeholders. (WTS #9 – Professional Learning and Ethical Practice) 

7. Establish positive and productive partnerships with valued stakeholders in support of individual learning. (WTS #10– Leadership & Collaboration)