 Students' experiences in the MSEd program grow out of their needs and interests. |
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Students explore the meaning and structure of teaching and learning and, through field experiences, collaborate with skilled mentors. Students consider various pedagogical methods and the design of authentic learning environments that value diversity and engage student interest. They investigate the theoretical underpinnings of education, examine their own philosophies and beliefs and — through reflection and active inquiry — connect these to practice. They examine the roles of public and private schools in the larger social and cultural context. Most students will participate in field experiences in both urban and suburban settings. Successful completion of the Elementary Teaching program entitles students to be recommended for a State of Illinois Standard Teaching Certificate (Type 03) for grades K-9, which is required for teaching in Illinois public schools. |
Note: course syllabi listed on this web site are intended for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect current readings and assignments. Current students should always refer to syllabi distributed by their professors in class.
Note: The MSEd program recommends that students in the Elementary Teaching concentration pursue the required courses in the sequence described above. Students who need to complete additional course work to fulfill requirements for state certification are encouraged to enroll and take those courses during the spring and/or summer quarters before the sequence described above. Students in the Elementary Teaching concentration must be available during the day during fall and winter quarters when they pursue the teaching practicum and student teaching.
Teacher preparation at Northwestern addresses the challenges that educators face in establishing and maintaining high-quality schools. Students in the Elementary Teaching concentration develop an understanding of the roles of public and private schools, the organization of schools and districts, the integrated functions and particular responsibilities of different school personnel, the social and cultural dimensions of education, issues related to professional growth, school-community relations, and the setting of deliberative goals and standards.
Through course work and field experience, students in Elementary Teaching learn to plan and present effective lessons and units in their particular subject areas, taking into account grade and ability levels; the interests, experiences, and cultural backgrounds of students; and the nature of the school community. In addition, emphasis is given to the characteristics of desired teaching-learning experiences, including classroom atmosphere, curriculum development and evaluation.
The goals of the Elementary Teaching concentration are to help students become skilled and committed educators and to improve conditions for teaching and learning in elementary schools. This concentration prepares students to earn a State of Illinois Type 03 teaching certificate for grades K-9, required for work in Illinois public schools. Students may also pursue a middle school endorsement (which covers grades 5-8) on the Illinois Type 03 certificate.