A minor in Education gives exposure to theories and techniques which enhance the classroom teaching experience. A strong foundation in education also combines well with continued studies in graphic design or psychology.

 

Required Courses:

 

COM 101       Fundamentals of Communication (3 credits)

Introduces the principles of effective communication and public speaking. Focuses on processes for constructing an argument, effectively transmitting information, and speaking with confidence. Develops all aspects of delivery, both in formal speeches and interpersonal communication.

Prerequisite(s): None 

 

EDU 101         Foundations of Teaching and Learning (3 credits)

Introduces the teaching profession and the important elements of effective teaching. Explores historical foundations and contemporary trends in education, educational philosophy. Covers concepts such as curricular methods and patterns, and educational theories such as multiple intelligences (Armstrong), brain-based learning (Caine and Caine), and dimensions of learning (Marzanno). Presents required components of effective lesson planning, including the development of effective learning objectives and selection of instructional strategies. Discusses contemporary challenges in education and expectations with regards to professionalism and the role of the teacher. Requires participation and observation of an actual classroom.

Prerequisite(s): None 

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Choose five elective courses from the following:

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EDU 265         Integrating Technology in the Classroom (3 credits)

Introduces the theories and techniques of educational technology. Discuses use of technology to improve learning, motivation, engagement, assessment, self-assessment, and classroom management in traditional classrooms, hybrid classrooms, and distance learning environments.

Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning)

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EDU 270         Education: Theory and Practice (3 credits)

Surveys the basic theories of learning and teaching and the application of theory to educational environments. Examines the adaptation of the concepts of behavioral, cognitive, and constructivist learning theories to teaching and managing an effective learning environment. Emphasizes the principles of motivation, classroom management, and assessment of student performance.

Prerequisite(s): None

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EDU 320         Instructional Design (3 credits)

Emphasizes the use of formative, summative, and non-traditional assessments in the classroom. Introduces the principles of curriculum design that align learning objectives, instructional strategies, and assessment strategies. Focuses on the use of authentic assessment to evaluate student mastery. Topics also include assuring inclusion of special needs students in curriculum planning and using effective communication techniques with parents, support systems, and the learning community.

Prerequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning)

 

EDU 345     Topics in Jewish Education (3 credits) 

Discusses how to teach students to understand and analyze Biblical and Rabbinic literature and concepts. Explores how educators can use text study to teach values, critical thinking, and moral and personal development. Introduces experiential tools that can be used by educators with their students to apply course content to their personal lives. Presents important elements of effective teaching of Biblical, Rabbinic and Judaic content. Discusses contemporary challenges in Jewish education and expectations with regards to professionalism and the role of the teacher. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (EDU 345A and EDU 345B). May be taken multiple times for credits as topics covered varies by course offering. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

 

EDU 360         Classroom Techniques and Management (3 credits)

Introduces strategies for developing and maintaining effective classroom management. Focuses on the essential components of classroom management, including classroom structure, limit-setting, responsibility training, and back-up systems. Intended for students interested in teaching.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

EDU 390     Field Experience in Education (3 credits) 

A school-based involvement in the educational process for six to eight hours per week. Students work with children in the classroom in a variety of ways that include classroom observations, small group teaching, co-teaching and planning, and independent teaching. Problems and techniques of classroom instruction and classroom management are experienced in a realistic setting & are discussed in a bi-weekly seminar. 

Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) and sophomore standing in Jewish education major or minor

 

EDU 415         Differentiated Instruction (3 credits)

Introduces the principles of differentiated instruction, including reading across the curriculum, implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) in the general education classroom, and teaching through different modalities. Focuses on effective co-teaching, universal design for learning, formative and summative assessment, and response to intervention/multi-tiered systems of support. Credit given for PSY 381 or EDU 415

Prerequisite(s): PSY 383 (Survey of Exceptional Children)

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EDU 450         Practicum in Jewish Education I (3 credits)

Supervised professional experience in the field. Student will be paired with a mentor who will advise the student throughout the practicum. The student will engage in self-reflection and self-evaluation. The practicum is designed to create a community of practice and will include group meetings and peer observation.

Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) or equivalent

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EDU 451         Practicum in Jewish Education II (3 credits)

Continues the supervised classroom experience for practical application and implementation of educational theories and methods for teaching Jewish studies. Topics include: lesson planning, curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, communication skills.

Prerequisite(s): EDU 450 (Practicum in Jewish Education I)

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EDU 490         Student Teaching (3 credits)

Provides a clinical experience that exposes students to all dimensions of teaching and learning. Requires a 15-week school placement where students apply knowledge and skills in a K-12 learning environment. Affords direct experience in delivering instruction and managing a classroom under the guidance of a mentor teacher.

Prerequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) or EDU 270 (Education: Theory and Practice) or equivalent

 

EDU 498         Internship in Education (1-3 credits)

Provides opportunity for exploration of the field of education in a professional setting. Allows students to integrate theory and practice and engage in a team-based work environment. Requires completion of 45-135 clock hours under the supervision of an education professional. Requires a special application.

Prerequisite(s): Jewish education major or education minor with junior standing or higher

 

EDU 499         Internship in Special Education (1-3 credits)

Provides opportunity for exploration of the field of special education in a professional setting. Allows students to integrate theory and practice and engage in a team-based work environment. Requires completion of 45-135 clock hours under the supervision of a special education professional. Requires a special application.

Prerequisite(s): Jewish education major or education minor with junior standing or higher