Data-based Decisions:

Faculty and staff in the Department of Elementary Education systematically review findings from multiple evaluation procedures and regularly make revisions to programs based on those reviews. The following data-based decisions were made during the 2005-2006 academic year:

In the Elementary Education Program Level I:

  1. Produced Fieldwork Guidebook with new focus on INTASC Standards and clear assignments for observation.
    Based on course evaluation from students expressing concerns about workload relative to other 3-credit courses, exit evaluation information (especially student comments) indicating that knowledge of standards was not clear. Also follows on decision of faculty to replace strands with standards.
  2. Replaced video viewing component of fieldwork with personal development component.
    Based on class discussions and student synthesis essays that indicated the contribution of the video to deeper understanding of teaching was not occurring as originally planned. Based on discussions with Level I instructors and students about why there was nothing in the fieldwork for Level I focusing on Self when that is the stated focus on Level I.

In the Elementary Education Program Level II:

  1. Based on anecdotal comments and performance assessments that suggest students experience a change in disposition relative to their understanding and acceptance of difference, we will be asking them to complete a pre- and post-survey to assess changes in disposition from the beginning to the end of the course.

In the Elementary Education Program Level III:

  1. We are basing the Level III portfolio on the INTASC standards to be consistent with the Elementary Education department's change from strands to INTASC.
  2. Based on students' comments about time available for teaching, to the extent that we are able, we have begun to place students in Level III classrooms alone, rather than with a partner.
  3. Some students have expressed dissatisfaction with 3 hour blocks for coursework. For spring of 2007, two methods classes will meet twice a week for 1.5 hours and three classes will meet once a week for a 3 hour block.
  4. Students are now required to complete an FBI background prior to Level III, which eases their transition into student teaching.
    Under consideration:
  5. Because the students often express feeling overloaded during Level III, we are considering moving the science methods course to the transition semester between Level II and Level III.

Upcoming Deadlines

  • October 1
    Apply to the Teacher Education Program

  • October 1
    Apply for Student Teaching