EDUC-266 Methods of Teaching Early Childhood and Elementary Education

This course is designed to provide prospective and non-certified early childhood and elementary school teachers with knowledge of the subject matter, the curriculum, the learners, and teaching strategies. Opportunities will be provided for planning and practicing instruction based on a knowledge of theory and research supporting the strategies and models used. Emphasis will be placed upon reflection on teaching and learning events in classrooms and schools to encourage problem solving in collaboration with others. This course meets the Maryland State Department of Education Teaching Methodology requirement for an initial certificate in Early Childhood or Elementary Education.

Credits

3

Hours Weekly

3 hours weekly

Course Objectives

1. 1. Describe a variety of teaching strategies and be able to explain how one or more learning
   theories support the use of these strategies.
2. 2. Explain the relationship of current research to best teaching practices.
3. 3. Select models and techniques appropriate to what is being taught and that meets the needs and
   abilities of diverse student populations.
4. 4. Demonstrate, through micro-teaching, a lesson that utilizes the principles of an instructional
   approach that is based on a theoretical perspective.
5. 5. Plan and reflect upon instruction, with attention to all aspects of instruction: planning,
   implementation, classroom management, and assessment.
6. 6. Create a cohesive, productive learning community that focuses on student engagement and
   achievement.
7. 7. Evaluate teaching models for their effectiveness in responding to individual learner strengths,
   needs, and capabilities.
8. 8. Identify and discuss those factors that significantly affect the culture of the classroom.
9. 9. Reflect critically on topics related to the teaching-learning process.
10. 10. Develop a set of definitions, guidelines, and procedures about the nature of the teaching-learning
    process that will serve as a basis for planning, assessment, management, and teacher decisions.

Course Objectives

1. 1. Describe a variety of teaching strategies and be able to explain how one or more learning
   theories support the use of these strategies.
2. 2. Explain the relationship of current research to best teaching practices.
3. 3. Select models and techniques appropriate to what is being taught and that meets the needs and
   abilities of diverse student populations.
4. 4. Demonstrate, through micro-teaching, a lesson that utilizes the principles of an instructional
   approach that is based on a theoretical perspective.
5. 5. Plan and reflect upon instruction, with attention to all aspects of instruction: planning,
   implementation, classroom management, and assessment.
6. 6. Create a cohesive, productive learning community that focuses on student engagement and
   achievement.
7. 7. Evaluate teaching models for their effectiveness in responding to individual learner strengths,
   needs, and capabilities.
8. 8. Identify and discuss those factors that significantly affect the culture of the classroom.
9. 9. Reflect critically on topics related to the teaching-learning process.
10. 10. Develop a set of definitions, guidelines, and procedures about the nature of the teaching-learning
    process that will serve as a basis for planning, assessment, management, and teacher decisions.