As part of a Christian learning community at Bethel University, the Education programs prepare educators for service in public and private schools who:
- demonstrate knowledge and competence in the context of education and content knowledge;
- understand and facilitate student learning and development;
- engage in reflective practice;
- establish collaborative relationships; and
- demonstrate a Christian worldview characterized by integrity and compassion.
Bethel’s Education programs provide students the opportunity to attain licensure for teaching in the following areas:
- Elementary Education (grades K-6)
- Secondary Education:
- Communication Arts and Literature (English), 5-12
- Mathematics, 5-12
- Social Studies, 5-12
- Education for grades K-12:
- Music: Instrumental or Vocal
- Special Education
In addition to the above education licenses, teaching endorsements can be added in middle level education (grades 5-8) in:
- Communication Arts and Literature
- Mathematics
- Social Studies
Bethel University's teacher education program is approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB), having met the standards set by the State of Minnesota through a rigorous review process.
To qualify for teacher licensure, our teacher candidates must complete their student teaching at Bethel University; this requirement cannot be transferred into Bethel. All student teachers complete the required Education Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA). Results are reported to PELSB, which in turn reports to the United States Secretary of Education under Title II of the Higher Education Act, annual reporting requirement.
Elementary School Licensure Program
The elementary teacher education program is designed to prepare teachers for teaching in any elementary school. The program is developed to give elementary teachers a solid foundation in the liberal arts, knowledge and understanding of human development and learning processes, methods of teaching basic skills, and subject matter preparation.
Secondary and K-12 Licensure Programs
Programs in teaching secondary education are available in communication arts and literature (English), mathematics, and social studies. Licensure for grades K-12 is available in instrumental music, vocal music, and special education. Prospective teachers in each of these areas must complete a core of professional education courses as well as the required courses in the discipline of choice. Details of these programs are found under the appropriate program listings in this catalog.
Special Education, K-12 Academic Behavioral Strategist (ABS) Licensure Program
The ABS teacher licensure program is designed to prepare teachers for teaching in a K-12, mild-moderate special education setting. The program is developed to give ABS teachers a solid foundation in the liberal arts, knowledge and understanding of human development and learning processes for students with exceptionalities, methods of teaching students with mild-moderate disabilities in the areas of academic and behavior, and required due process procedures related to special education.
Endorsements
Formal licensure endorsements are also available to all licensure candidates (elementary, 5-12, and K-12) and can be added to a licensure program. Endorsements are available to teach grades 5-8 in the following areas: communication arts and literature, mathematics, and social studies.
Post-baccalaureate Licensure
Holders of a baccalaureate degree may qualify for a teaching license by completing the missing components of the prescribed program in which they are interested. A second bachelor’s degree is not awarded to these students. Those interested in this program must make an initial contact with Bethel's Office of Admissions and then meet with the Education Department to develop an individualized plan for completion of requirements.
General Criteria for Participation in the Teacher Education Program
A. Admission Procedures and Requirements
- Complete at least one semester of coursework at Bethel with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 for Elementary Education and Special Education, 3.0 for Social Studies Education, and 2.5 for Communication Arts and Literature Education, Mathematics Education, and Music Education.
- Successfully complete EDU 200, Introduction to Education and EDU 201, Introduction to Education Field Experience with a minimum grade of C or better.
- During EDU 200 Introduction to Education and EDU 201 Introduction to Education Field Experience. students will:
- File an application for admission to the education department, including a written autobiographical statement and references.
- Be interviewed and accepted into the program upon approval of the faculty of the student’s area of emphasis.
- Submit any transfer course work for education department evaluation. Only coursework with a grade of C or above is transferable for credit.
B. Standards for Continuance in Education Program
- Complete admission procedures before enrolling in additional education courses.
- Maintain a major GPA of at least 2.75 for Elementary Education and Special Education, 3.0 for Social Studies Education, and 2.5 for Communication Arts and Literature Education, Mathematics Education, and Music Education.
- Demonstrate continual development of professional traits of educators, as presented throughout the program.
C. Requirements for Admission to Student Teaching
- Be recommended for student teaching by the department(s) of the student’s area of emphasis and by the student's academic advisor.
- Complete the following coursework:
- Maintain a major GPA of at least 2.75 for Elementary Education and Special Education, 3.0 for Social Studies Education, and 2.5 for Communication Arts and Literature Education, Mathematics Education, and Music Education.
- 5-8, 5-12, and K-12 majors—all EDU and content courses.
- Fulfill any Professional Improvement Plan (P.I.P.) contracts.
- Acceptance for placement by a school.
- For transfer or post-baccalaureate students the following applies:
- Elementary education majors must obtain a grade of C or better in all EDU or content courses.
- Students in 5-8, 5-12, and K-12 programs must obtain a C or better in all EDU or content courses. Check with each department for specific requirements.
D. Eligibility Standards for Minnesota Teacher Licensure
- Complete all requirements for a baccalaureate degree.
- Successfully complete student teaching experiences.
- Complete Minnesota’s requirement of a conduct review statement (Bureau of Criminal Apprehension).
- Complete and submit education Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA).
E. Appeals Process
- Appeal of decisions for admission and/or continuation in the education program and/or course grades can be made through the Education Department chair or through the Bethel University appeals process as described in the Student Handbook.
- If a student disputes a licensure decision, he/she has the right to appeal to the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board (PELSB).
F. Notes
- Licensure standards and resultant program requirements are subject to change by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board (PELSB).
- Meeting the Minnesota licensure requirements is a prerequisite for Bethel University graduates seeking licensure in other states.
- Admission to the University does not ensure admission to the education program, and admission to the education program does not ensure admission to student teaching or approval for licensure.
- The Education Department reserves the right to consider, as part of admission to student teaching, personal and professional qualities, scholastic achievement, conduct, attitude, or other standards seen as appropriately related.
- Students in the Teacher Education Department must meet the current license requirements at the time of graduation, which may require students to switch to the most current catalog.
Majors in Education
Elementary Education
5-12 Education
See respective department listings for major requirements:
- B.A. in Communication Arts and Literature Education 5-12 (English Education)
- B.A. in Mathematics Education 5-12
- B.A. in Social Studies Education 5-12
K-12 Education
See respective department listings for major requirements:
EDU 200 • Introduction to Education 3 Credits
Contemporary issues in education in the light of history and educational thought. Various aspects of growth and development are included.
Prerequisites: 15 Credits. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 201 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 201 • Introduction to Education Field Experience 1 Credit
A field experience requiring four hours per week observing and serving in an elementary or secondary school classroom.
Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 200 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: Designated times are set by the Education department.
EDU 203 • School Health and Drugs 2 Credits
Examines the roles of teachers and schools in responding to adolescent health problems, including alcohol/drug problems, with particular attention to health promotion, prevention, and referral. Adolescent drug/alcohol use from a variety of perspectives—behavioral, pharmacological, social, legal, and clinical. Emphasis on the characteristics of effective comprehensive school-based drug abuse prevention programs. 202611.
Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 220 • Introduction to Middle Level Education 3 Credits
Identifies and defines the concept of exemplary and typical middle and junior high schools: philosophy, organizational structure, curriculum, and instructional characteristics. Students develop an understanding of the physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and moral stages of adolescent development and begin to develop the ability to relate middle-level program possibilities to adolescent developmental needs.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 236UZ • Exploring British Education and Culture 4 Credits
Designed for students to immerse themselves in British culture and explore the educational system, with an emphasis on the diverse populations of Pakistani and Indian students and schools. Provides students with three learning experiences: 1) observation and participation in British elementary and secondary schools; 2) homestay with a British family; and 3) cultural exploration in London and surrounding areas.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; GES 130 or GES 149; Admission to the Education program. Offered: January, odd # years. 202611
EDU 240 • Educational Psychology 3 Credits
Psychological foundations of education. Various aspects of growth and development, the nature and conditions of learning, implications for teaching, and evaluation.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 241 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: This course is intended for 5-8, 5-12, and K-12 licensure students only.
EDU 241 • Educational Psychology Field Experience 1 Credit
A field experience requiring four hours per week in an elementary or secondary school for observation and tutorial experience in a special education setting.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 240 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: Designated times are set by the Education department.
EDU 271 • Education Psychology and Pedagogy 2 Credits
Foundational knowledge about the theories of learning, cognitive development, instructional planning and assessment practices, and professional reflection.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 272 • Language and Literacy Development for Young Learners (K-3) 5 Credits
Foundational knowledge about language and literacy development, instructional methods, assessment practices, the creation of a literate and motivating environment, and the encouragement of family engagement in literacy.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 271; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 273 • Primary Grade Field Experience 1 Credit
Application of effective practices done in a primary classroom, working with individual students and small reading groups.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 274; EDU 275 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 274 • Education Technology 1 Credit
Methods of integrating technology into the primary grades classroom are considered. Focus on approaches with research-based technologies that enhance student learning and are linked to effective instructional strategies. Professional growth/development and developing digital citizenship/responsibility are considered.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 275 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 275 • Kindergarten Education 1 Credit
Characteristics of kindergarten children and the curriculum and teaching strategies appropriate for their developmental level.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 317GZ • Educational Equity 4 Credits
Root causes and historical origins of the current disparity of opportunities in U.S. educational systems. Prepares future educators to be culturally competent and responsive critical thinkers who understand the barriers that perpetuate inequities. Addresses these challenges from a biblical and leadership perspective.
Prerequisites: [GES 130; GES 160 or GES 149]; Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L) course or World Cultures (U) course. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: This course includes experiential learning in schools and community events.
EDU 320 • Pedagogy and the Young Adolescent Learner 1 Credit
Discusses the differences in philosophy and pedagogy of teaching in a middle school and in a junior high school. Course activities help students define, describe, and develop the following components of contemporary middle level schools: appropriate curriculum, interdisciplinary structure, and interdisciplinary teaching.
Prerequisites: EDU 220 (may be taken concurrently) and EDU 240/EDU 241. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 321 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 321 • Integrated Literacy in the Content Areas 1 Credit
Understanding of literacy development strategies and the role of reading in teaching content material related to specific subject areas. Review of content area texts, assessment and practice in adapting content materials to student needs.
Prerequisites: EDU 220 (may be taken concurrently) and EDU 240/EDU 241. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 320 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 331 • Teaching and Learning 2 Credits
A foundational knowledge of learning psychology and teaching methodology. Examines unique considerations for youth and adult learners, metacognition, formal/informal learning, multi-modal learning, learning in a variety of fields/contexts, and iterative program assessment.
Offered: Fall.
EDU 363 • Health Curriculum and Methods 1 Credit
Principles, curriculum, and methods of teaching health in grades K-6. Role of the teacher and school in responding to the special health needs of elementary-age children.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Fall.
EDU 365 • Physical Education Curriculum and Methods 1 Credit
Principles, curriculum, and methods of teaching physical education in grades K-6.
Prerequisites: EDU 200; EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Fall.
EDU 366A • Visual Arts Curriculum and Methods 1 Credit
Methods, materials, and resources for teaching visual arts in grades K-6.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Spring.
EDU 368A • Music Curriculum and Methods 1 Credit
Methods, materials, and resources for teaching music in grades K-6.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Spring.
EDU 390 • General Field Experience 0 Credit
Students work in local schools with licensed cooperating teachers.
Prerequisites: Approval of the Director of Education Clinical Practice. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 400 • Methods in Teaching K-12 English to Speakers of Other Languages 3 Credits
Theories of language learning, language acquisition, and classroom methodologies at the elementary and secondary levels. Exploration of instructional resources, uses of technology, evaluative procedures, and classroom management. Development of a philosophy of English as a Second Language education and practice in unit planning and teaching.
Prerequisites: LIN210Z; LIN300; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 401 is required. Offered: Fall.
EDU 401 • Middle Level Education Field Experience in TESL 1 Credit
Classroom-based practicum in an ESL classroom of young adolescent learners. Emphasizes evaluation and application of concepts and strategies previously introduced.
Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 400 is required. Offered: Fall.
EDU 406 • Methods in Teaching 5-8 English 3 Credits
An examination of how middle level philosophy translates into practice in English classes in grades 5-8. Designed to accompany a 1 credit practicum experience in a middle level school.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241 or EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 407 and EDU 408 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Spring.
EDU 407 • Middle Level Education Field Experience in English 1 Credit
Classroom-based practicum in an English class of young adolescent learners. Emphasizes evaluation and application of concepts and strategies previously introduced.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 406 and EDU 408 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Spring.
EDU 408 • Methods in Teaching 5-12 English 3 Credits
Methods and curriculum employed in teaching English in middle and high schools. Examines current technology in English education as well as interactive learning and teaching. Emphasizes vocabulary and academic language. Lesson and unit planning using best practices and developmentally appropriate principles.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 406 and EDU 407 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Spring. Special Notes: EDU 320 is a strongly recommended corequisite.
EDU 410 • Methods in Teaching 5-8 Mathematics 3 Credits
Teaching methodologies, materials, assessment, historical and current trends and issues in curriculum, development of a philosophy of mathematics education, and other topics related to teaching and learning mathematics in grades 5-8. Practice in planning lessons and units, implementing technology, and teaching.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241 or EDU 271; Admission to Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 411 and EDU 412 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Fall.
EDU 411 • Mathematics Education Field Experience in grades 5-8 or 5-12 1 Credit
Students observe and participate in a high school and/or middle school mathematics classroom (minimum 40 hours on site). Deeper understanding of preadolescent and adolescent learners as well as curriculum, instruction, and assessment in the context of grades 5-12 school communities.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241 or EDU 271; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 410 and EDU 412 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Fall.
EDU 412 • Methods in Teaching 5-12 Mathematics 3 Credits
Teaching methodologies, materials, assessment, historical and current trends and issues in curriculum, development of a philosophy of mathematics education, and other topics related to teaching and learning mathematics in grades 5-8 and 9-12. Practice in planning lessons and units, implementing technology, and teaching.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241; Admission to the Education program; Senior standing or Consent of instructor. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 410 and EDU 411 or Consent of instructor is required. Offered: Fall.
EDU 418 • Methods in Teaching 9-12 Social Studies 2 Credits
Development of ability to take concepts from several component disciplines of social studies and communicate them effectively to, or direct their acquisition by, students in grades 9-12. Curriculum trends, materials, classroom methodologies, and teacher competencies are studied and applied.
Prerequisites: EDU 220; EDU 240/EDU 241; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 419 is required. Offered: Spring.
EDU 419 • 5-8 Social Studies Methods and Field Experience 2 Credits
Classroom-based practicum in a social studies class of young adolescent learners. Emphasizes evaluation and application of concepts and strategies previously introduced.
Prerequisites: EDU 220; EDU 240/EDU 241; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 418 is required. Offered: Spring.
EDU 432 • Methods in Teaching Elementary Music 3 Credits
Methods and materials for teaching music in the elementary school. The skills of singing, playing, moving, improvising, reading, and listening are explored as a means of helping children gain an intuitive and theoretical understanding of musical principles.
Prerequisites: EDU 240/EDU 241; Major or minor in music; Admission to the Education program. Offered: Fall, odd # years.
EDU 433 • Methods in Teaching Secondary Music 3 Credits
Methods and materials for teaching music in the middle school, junior high, and high school vocal and instrumental programs.
Prerequisites: EDU 432; Major or minor in music; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent enrollment in EDU 434 is required. Offered: Spring, even # years.
EDU 434 • Middle Level Education Field Experience in Music 1 Credit
Classroom-based practicum in a music class of young adolescent learners. Emphasizes evaluation and application of concepts and strategies previously introduced.
Prerequisites: EDU 432 and Major or minor in music. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 433 is required. Offered: Spring, even # years.
EDU 470 • Math Curriculum and Methods 3 Credits
Methods, materials, and resources for teaching mathematics in grades K-6. Emphasis placed on problem solving, inquiry, and conceptual understanding in a standards-based classroom.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 471; EDU 472; EDU 473; EDU 474; EDU 475; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 471 • Science Curriculum and Methods 3 Credits
Methods, materials, and resources for teaching science in grades K-6. Emphasis placed on inquiry and discovery learning, planning, and teaching in a standards-based classroom.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 472; EDU 473; EDU 474; EDU 475; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 472 • Educational Psychology 3 Credits
Psychological foundations of education continued from EDU 471 with an emphasis on grades 4-6. Various aspects of growth and development, the nature and conditions of learning, implications for teaching, awareness of student variability, and strategies for meeting the needs of students with disabilities. Teacher/student relationships and strategies for maintaining a classroom environment where learning can occur.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 471; EDU 473; EDU 474; EDU 475; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 473 • Reading/Language Arts Curriculum and Methods 3 Credits
Reading methods and processes with a strong emphasis on comprehension and vocabulary development. Language arts skills: writing process, grammar, spelling, drama, listening and speaking skills, viewing skills for students in grades 4-6. A variety of creative and critical response modes to integrate literature across the curriculum.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 471; EDU 472; EDU 474; EDU 475; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 474 • Social Studies Curriculum and Methods: Planning 3 Credits
Methods, materials, and resources for teaching social studies in grades K-6. Emphasis placed on the use of process skills of the social scientist. Long- and short-term planning including integration of curriculum across content areas, embedding Minnesota Graduation Standards.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 471; EDU 472; EDU 473; EDU 475; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 475 • Integrating Technology in the Content Areas 2 Credits
Methods of integrating technology in various grade levels and content areas are examined. Students design, implement, and access strategies for assessment and learning. Emphasis on approaches to enhance student learning, increase motivation, and link to effective instructional strategies. Professional growth/development and developing digital citizenship/responsibility are considered.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 471; EDU 472; EDU 473; EDU 474; EDU 476 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
EDU 476 • Intermediate Grade Field Experience 1 Credit
Application of effective practices done in a 3rd-6th grade classroom, working with large groups as well as small groups, adapting lessons for students with special needs. Special focus on integrated planning.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201; EDU 271; EDU 272; EDU 273; EDU 274; EDU 275; MAT 202; NAS 101D; NAS 102D; NAS 103D; NAS 104D; Admission to the Education program. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in EDU 470; EDU 471; EDU 472; EDU 473; EDU 474; EDU 475 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: A residency option is available by application. Residents stay in the same cooperating classroom for Block 2 and student teaching.
EDU 490 • Student Teaching Block 1-15 Credits
Students teach in a school setting corresponding with their licensure area(s). Students work with a cooperating teacher and grow into teaching independently. Attendance at regularly scheduled seminars is required.
Prerequisites: Admission to student teaching and 2.50 GPA. Offered: Fall, Spring. Special Notes: Students earning a license to teach in two programs must register for EDU 490 in the initial license area and in the additional license or endorsement program. Both student teaching placements can occur within the same semester. Some situations may require the addition of student teaching during January Session. This course is graded on an S/U basis.
EDU 491 • Student Teaching in Middle Level 3 Credits
Observation and student teaching in fields in which a student will be licensed to teach. Involves student teaching in a Middle Level endorsement area.
Prerequisites: Admission to student teaching. Offered: Occasionally. Special Notes: This course is graded on an S/U basis.
SPD 205 • Introduction to Special Education 2 Credits
Identification of the impact that historical and philosophical foundations, legal bases, and contemporary issues have on special education. Identification of common disability category characteristics. Description of the impact that culture, faith, and linguistics have on special education. Description of how the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) impacts special education.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major or minor in one of the following programs: k-6 elementary education, communication arts and literature education 5-12, mathematics education 5-12, social studies education 5-12, special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist, music education k-12, special education. Offered: Fall, January.
SPD 209 • Introduction to Academic and Behavior Support 4 Credits
Introduction to how special education and general education systems relate. Identification of functional behavioral assessments processes and principles of individual and school-wide systems of supports. Demonstration of how evidence-based instruction can be adapted. Exploration of co-teaching models. Identification of how required curricular components direct instruction. Analysis of positive instructional environments.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major or minor in one of the following programs: k-6 elementary education, communication arts and literature education 5-12, mathematics education 5-12, social studies education 5-12, special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist, music education k-12, special education. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 222 • Teaching Reading (and Field Experience) 4 Credits
Identification of relationships among reading, writing, oral language, comprehension processes, and instructional strategies. Description of English language structure, word identification strategies, and the role of vocabulary knowledge in language. Analysis of texts for K-12 classrooms. Assessment strategies for reading and writing needs. Recognition of characteristics and instructional strategies for dyslexia.
Prerequisites: Major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 301 • Characteristics of Students with Mild-Moderate Disabilities (and Field Experience) 4 Credits
Exploration of the five disability categories represented under Academic Behavioral Strategist (ABS). Identification of strategies that support stakeholders of children with mild-moderate needs. Explanation of topics that form the basis for special education practice for students with mild-moderate disabilities. Identification of the impact culture and linguistics has on special education.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education. Offered: Fall; Spring.
SPD 310 • Norm-Referenced Assessment 4 Credits
Description of standards and critical elements in the special education assessment process. Identification of test development principles and evaluation of standardized assessment instruments for special education decision-making. Description of responsibilities of assessment team members. Synthesis of assessment data. Application of scriptural principles to assessment in special education.
Prerequisites: Major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in SPD 354 and SPD 370 is required. Offered: See student's advisor for course rotation.
SPD 318 • Foundations of Instructional Strategies for Students with Mild-Moderate Disabilities 4 Credits
Development of an instructional sequence for students in special education. Evaluation of data for making accommodations and modifications. Identification of differentiation strategies and the relationship between teaching and learning theories and academic standards. Application of evidence-based practices. Exploration of the relationship between faith concepts and instruction in special education.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major or minor in one of the following programs: k-6 elementary education, communication arts and literature education 5-12, mathematics education 5-12, social studies education 5-12, special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist, music education k-12, special education. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 332 • Responsive Intervention and Assessment 4 Credits
Identification of appropriate assessment measures, including curriculum-based measures, and professional resources related to interventions. Interpretation of assessment and progress monitoring data to make informed instructional and placement decisions. Creation of instruction and modifications incorporating research-based interventions and based on data collected through collaboration with stakeholders. Description of student assessment results.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major or minor in one of the following programs: k-6 elementary education, communication arts and literature education 5-12, mathematics education 5-12, social studies education 5-12, special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist, music education k-12, special education. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 342 • Introduction to Student Mental Health and Systems Comprehensive of Support 4 Credits
Introduction and interventions for K-12 students with mental health and behavioral needs, including trauma-informed practices. Impact of mental health and behavioral diagnoses, substance abuse, and suicide within K-12 education. Identification of roles of professionals within and outside the school related to mental health.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and Major or minor in one of the following programs: k-6 elementary education, communication arts and literature education 5-12, mathematics education 5-12, social studies education 5-12, special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist, music education k-12, special education. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 354 • Classroom-Based Assessment 4 Credits
Description of legal, professional, and ethical standards in assessment measures and environmental factors influencing student achievement and behavior. Description of student’s learning style, strengths, and analysis of behavior based on observations and assessment data. Description of the FBA process. Identification of the influence diversity, age and gender have on assessment.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and A major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education. Corequisites: SPD 310 and SPD 370. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 370 • Assessment Field Experience 1 Credit
Identification of students' strengths and needs through assessment. Identification of the purpose of multidisciplinary teams. Development of an evaluation report, a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA), and a plan for continued professional development in the area of assessment. Explanation of assessment results with relevant parties. Creation of interventions. 30 hours/12 weeks.
Prerequisites: Major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education. Corequisites: Concurrent registration in SPD 310 and SPD 354 is required. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 374 • Consultation and Collaboration in Programming for Students with Disabilities 4 Credits
Focus on collaborating with stakeholders to support students with disabilities. Development and evaluation of individual education programs based on student assessment results. Consideration of technology, supplementary aids, services, and student’s transitional needs. Synthesis of cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity. Clarification of personal beliefs and adjusting to student needs.
Prerequisites: EDU 200/EDU 201 and A major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist or minor in special education. Offered: Fall, Spring.
SPD 480 • Student Teaching - Academic Behavioral Strategist 14 Credits
Management of timelines and ethical responsibilities of a special educator. Implementation of appropriate interventions and procedures necessary to process moral dilemmas related to special education due process. Consultation with parents and professionals to provide special education services. Analysis of personal development. Integration of duty, virtue, responsibility, and Christian values.
Prerequisites: SPD 205; SPD 209; SPD 222; SPD 301; SPD 310; SPD 318; SPD 332; SPD 342; SPD 354; SPD 370; SPD 374; 2.75 GPA; Major in special education k-12 academic behavioral strategist. Offered: Fall, Spring.