Career and Technical Educator Course Description

LEDU1200   Foundations of Education   (3 credits)

This course investigates the philosophical, historical, and social/cultural character of education in the United States. It examines how schools function organizationally and the motivation for selecting teaching as a profession. Students will complete 20 hours of observation/participation in a public school.

LEDU1300   Introduction to Exceptionalities   (3 credits)

This course will introduce the federal laws that regulate special education, the basic values that underlie supporting students who experience disabilities, and the roles of teacher assistants in supporting those individuals including: the value of inclusion in home, education, work and community life; respect for the inherent worth and dignity of each person. Through readings, in-class discussions, lectures, presentations and classroom discussions, teachers and teacher assistants will develop strategies on how to facilitate students' independence, learning, social connections and self-advocacy skills. Curriculum will emphasize the philosophical and practical applications of valuing students' abilities and diversity, collaborating with educators and families, supporting classroom teachers and curriculum modifications. Topical issues to be explored include: A History of Disability Law; Implementing IDEA's (IDEIA's) Principles in public education; the practical application of these laws in an inclusive instructional setting; effective instructional strategies for curriculum adaptation and delivery within the context planning under IDEA (IDEIA) and Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act; rights of teachers, parents and students; inclusion and collaboration. Emphasis will be placed upon the most prevalent disabilities, such as learning disabilities, emotional disorders, cognitive impairment, and physical disabilities.

LEDU1400   Introduction to Childhood Studies   (3 credits)

This course provides an overview of various public and community childhood settings. Students will discuss the role of the childhood educator in these settings and the variety of opportunities available to work with children. Students will explore career opportunities ranging from case manager to teacher, researcher and director of programs for children in grades K-8. Observation/participation in childhood settings is required.

LEDU1500   Foundations of After-School Education   (3 credits)

This course offers an introduction to the after-school environment. The history of the after-school/extended day movement will be reviewed. Students will examine how after-school programs function organizationally and will examine sustainability options. For-profit and non-profit models will be examined. Discussion will include the history of out-of-school time care, theoretical perspectives and current trends. Students will complete 10 hours of observation in the after-school environment.

LEDU2000   Teaching and Learning   (3 credits)

This course studies principles of curriculum, organizations, and teaching methods through supervised observation and participation in a public school. This course introduces the student to rubric evaluation and learning styles, lesson planning, and curriculum delivery. (Prerequisite: LEDU1200)

LEDU2040   Special Education Behavior Methods and Teaching Strategies (K-12)   (3 credits)

Strategies taught include developing student's study skills through the use of mnemonics, double column notes, reading techniques, time management and organization, and active vs. passive learning. Individual behaviors that influence integrated classrooms (preK-12) will be addressed including the following: designing and adapting instructional material for personal and small group use; teacher characteristics which enhance the learning situation; and assessment (both formal and informal). This course will further focus on techniques to address the needs of pre-kindergarten through grade twelve students exhibiting difficulties with basic reading, writing, and elementary content area subjects. In addition, students will explore how curricula can be used to challenge all students and allow them the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Further, this course will provide students with knowledge and skills for supporting students with challenging behaviors, using the framework of positive behavioral supports. By developing strategies to determine the functions of certain behaviors, students will gain new and effective strategies for supporting students who demonstrate challenging behaviors in the classroom. These strategies for addressing emotional and behavioral issues will also include family, faculty, staff, and community resources. (Prerequisite: LEDU1300)

LEDU2080   Teaching Literature for Children Across the Curriculum   (3 credits)

This course explores genres of literature for children in grades K-8 with an emphasis on the integration of the language arts across the content areas. Discussion and development of thematic units using a variety of genre is included. Extensive reading and critiquing of children's books are required with the aim of developing an appreciation and understanding of the value of children's literature in language and literacy development. (Prerequisites: LEDU1200, LEDU2000)

LEDU2090   Integrated Arts   (3 Credits)

An exploration into the value and practical application of integrating the arts across all content areas of the curriculum. Students will gain an understanding of the role of the creative process in the classroom and will investigate the various means of expressing ideas, emotions and images through the use of music, drama, movement, puppetry, visual arts, and theatre. This course involves a team-teaching practicum component with a minimum of 10 hours in a public school setting. (Prerequisites: LEDU1200, LEDU2000)

LEDU2100   Instructional Technology   (4 credits)

This course presents the theory and strategies for effective integration of technology resources and technology-based methods of instruction, and assistive technology designed for students with disabilities. A background of mediated instruction will be provided along with a review of the qualities and benefits of various technology options, including assistive technology, available to instructional settings. Opportunities to apply instructional delivery using common forms of media, multimedia, computers and specialized programs for students with disabilities will be integral to this course, in addition to the contemplation of future issues of integration of technology and matters of time and place of the learning experience. The fourth credit is an independent study/distance learning format utilizing the Internet. Computer labs will be open for student use. In order to fully participate in this class, students need to have experience with Microsoft Office applications, to include basic word processing and file management and the use of the Internet for searching and email communication. Students with questions or concerns regarding this requirement should contact the instructor or the Academic Affairs office.

LEDU2300   Essentials of Career and Technical Curriculum and Instruction   (3 credits)

This course will explore the history, philosophy, principles, organization and operation of career and technical education in the United States. Students will develop a functional understanding of the role and responsibilities of a professional career and technical educator. This course will provide the participant with the foundation and skills needed to design, implement and manage a curriculum in career and technical education. Identification of resources and occupational analysis, derivation of content, formulation of objectives, defining measurable learning outcomes, and the selection and development of activities and evaluation methods will be explored.

LEDU2400   Independent Study in Education

The Independent Study in Education course is designed for those students who have a particular interest in a subject matter, population, or approach to teaching that could be explored in greater depth or breadth than current course offerings allow, or who may wish to design a personal project or practicum experience that supplements or focuses their college experience. Students are expected to have enough knowledge and experience to formulate their own goals and interests, as well as work independently to completion. (Prerequisite: Permission of instructor)

The college reserves the right to change without notice any academic or other requirements, course offerings and course contents contained in this profile.