Course Description - Teacher Preparation
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
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.
LENG1200 College Composition (3 Credits)
In this course students learn to write clearly and effectively for defined audiences through a variety of strategies. Emphasis is on the writing process from prewriting through drafting, revising and editing. Formal essays and a research paper are required. (Prerequisite: Placement or successful completion of competency assessment)
LPSY1250 Introduction to Psychology (3 Credits)
Various areas of psychology, including scientific investigation, motivation, personality, psychological testing, behavioral deviation, perception, learning and human development are studied.
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)
LPSY1260 Human Growth and Development (3 Credits)
This course surveys physiological, mental and emotional development over the human life span. Using the central concepts of epigenetic stages and interaction with the environment, the course identifies the main trends of human development and explores the needs and typical responses of persons at each stage.
LHUM1310 Cultural Anthropology (3 Credits)
This survey course involves the study of human beings and their cultures, customs, origins and development. Specific topics examined and discussed include human origins and evolution, human cultures, race and ethnicity, religions, taboos, political systems, economic systems, kinship, sexual norms and mores, gender roles, marriage, educational systems, art, and the effects of globalization on local cultures.
LPSY2000 Educational Psychology (3 Credits)
Psychological principles are applied to the learning environment. Theories of learning, memory, cognition, and behavior management are discussed in relation to formal education. (Prerequisites: LPSY1250 and LPSY1260 which may be taken concurrently)
LPOL2310 American Government (3 Credits)
This introductory course in government examines the relationship between government, politics and power. Students discuss how people in a representative democracy can effect change in government to address current and future needs.
