55-511 Foundations of Teaching and Learning

This course investigates the knowledge necessary to become an effective teacher in elementary or middle school classrooms. It focuses on the importance of having a developmental perspective on planning, learning, diversity, and learning problems. This includes understanding the knowledge of group dynamics and developing a positive approach to classroom management including all of the essential components of effective planning, teaching, and assessment. An emphasis on professional dialogue and collaboration encourages candidates to actively apply theoretical information to a variety of learning situations. The candidate will explore the challenges of learner diversity and learn how to meet the needs of exceptional and at-risk learners, including English language learners. Discussion of effective teaching strategies in elementary classroom teachng will be emphasized, practiced, and evaluated.