Outcomes:

After completing this class, students should be able to:

• Discuss some of the major trends in the educational system in the United States
• Reflect on different aspects of the teaching-learning process through the active participation in an elementary classroom
• Examine the issues of excellence and equity in the school system and reflect on whether American schools have succeeded in reaching these goals.
• Understand and explain the historical development of American public schools
• Name and discuss the major philosophies which have shaped educational policy and practices in American schools
• Understand and discuss personal philosophical beliefs and how they relate to education and the way teachers teach
• Understand and discuss how the concepts of diversity and culture affect education of America
• Name and explain the different facets of the teaching process
• Define “curriculum” and “instruction” and explain how they form the specific content for the learner
• Identify different methods of instruction
• Understand the district school board process
• Understand the teacher certification process