2009-2010 Undergraduate Catalog - Belmont University

Education Courses

Early Childhood Education Courses (EDU)

EDU 1990-4990. Special Studies (1-3).

EDU 2221. Child Development, Education, and Guidance (3). This course emphasizes the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of children; the responsibilities of parents; and guidance of children through age eight. Field experience is  required. This course is required for early childhood endorsement.

EDU 3031. Infant and Toddler Programming (3). This course addresses the unique aspects of providing programs for infants and toddlers. Developmentally appropriate materials and methods of working with the youngest children are included. Health and infectious disease control, nutrition for infants and toddlers, parents' special needs are emphasized.

EDU 3201. The Curriculum of Early Childhood Education (3). A study of activities and experiences suited to the young child is made with emphasis on procedures to meet their psychological, physiological and social needs. Observation in nursery school, kindergarten and the primary grades is required.

EDU 4001. Early Childhood Methods Block (15). This course combines all the methods for PreK-4 licensure into one block. The methods covered in this block include: literary, mathematics, science, social sciences and early childhood methods.

EDU 4201. Teaching in Grades K-4 (4). (For prerequisite, see " Admission to Student Teaching.") Seminar in teaching, designed to help students be better prepared for their enhanced student teaching experience. ( Co-requisite EDU 4401).

EDU 4221. Methods and Materials for Early Childhood Education (3). A study of the basic needs and characteristics of young children and an exploration of the current practices in curriculum and methodology will be made. Field experience in nursery school and/or kindergarten is required. This course is required for kindergarten endorsement.

EDU 4401. Student Teaching in Early Childhood Pre-K-3 (8). Corequisite: EDU 4411. A semester of student teaching is required. Registration by permission of the instructor. ($325.00 course fee).

EDU 4601. Administration of Early Childhood Education Programs (3). This course addresses the supervision and management aspects of working with programs for young children: child care, preschool, kindergarten, Head Start, and church programs. Personnel, fiscal, and legal considerations for starting and maintaining such programs are examined.

Middle School Education Division Courses (EDU)

EDU 1990-4990. Special Studies (1-3).

EDU 2223. Human Development and Education (3). This course examines development from various theoretical perspectives and at stages relevant to all levels of formal education. A major focus is the educational implications that flow from each developmental perspective. Students will also examine the research relevant to the issues in human development.

EDU 3030. Literacy I (3). This course includes the various theories and methods of reading instruction from the readiness period through the intermediate grades. Current research materials, diagnostic procedures and remediation techniques are emphasized. Practicum required.

EDU 3040. Mathematics in the Elementary School (3). Prerequisite: MTH 1050, 1060 or consent of instructor. This course emphasizes basic concepts in mathematics, with application to elementary school mathematics and suggestions for teaching these concepts. For elementary teacher licensure only.

EDU 3200. The Elementary School Curriculum (2). This is an exploration and systematic study of the elementary school curriculum and involves a study of curriculum revision as well as principles and trends in curriculum development.

EDU 3240. Books and Related Materials for Children (3). Book selection principles are applied for elementary, middle school, and public library collections for children. A critical study is made of classic, and current books with aids and criteria for book selection and use.

EDU 3502. Middle School Perspectives (2). This course emphasizes the growth and development of children in grades 4-8. It looks at appropriate curriculum and instruction for this age group as well as the methodology of teaching to meet the needs of these students.

EDU 4002. Middle School Methods Block (15). This course combines all the methods for 5-8 licensure into one block. The methods covered in this block include: literacy, mathematics, science, social sciences and middle school methods.

EDU 4200. Teaching in Grades K-8 and Grades 1-8 (4). Corequisite: EDU 4400. (For prerequisites see " Admission to Student Teaching.") Seminar in teaching, designed to help students be better prepared for their enhanced student teaching experience.

EDU 4202. Teaching in the Middle School Grades 5-8 (4). Corequisite: EDU 4402. (For prerequisites see " Admission to Student Teaching.") See course description of EDU 4202, with application to middle school.

EDU 4230. Literacy 2 (3). Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are studied. Emphasis is put on the selection and organization of materials and on the evaluation of pupil growth in the language arts. (Practicum is required.)

EDU 4250. Science in the Elementary School (2). This course stresses the examination, design, and evaluation of experiences for teaching science in the elementary school. Science content is stressed.

EDU 4260. Teaching Social Studies in the Elementary School (2). This course focuses upon the objectives of teaching social studies in the elementary school and how resources may be discovered, used, and evaluated in the attainment of these objectives. Content is stressed with special emphasis given to geography as an example of the social studies.

EDU 4300. Practicum in Education (1-4). This course is designed to give students additional work experience in the field of middle school education. Registration by permission of the instructor.

EDU 4310-4390. Special Studies in Elementary Education (1-4).

EDU 4400. Student Teaching in Grades K-8 and Grades 1-8 (8). Corequisite: EDU 4200. (For prerequisites see " Admission to Student Teaching.") This laboratory course gives the student teacher experience in the elementary school and an opportunity to observe and use appropriate classroom procedures under the direct supervision of an experienced teacher. This course requires satisfactory presentation of a professional portfolio and includes a seminar which meets weekly during the full-time student teaching experience. ($325.00 course fee)

EDU 4402. Student Teaching in the Middle School Grades 4-8 (8). Corequisite: EDU 4200. (For prerequisites see " Admission to Student Teaching.") See course description of EDU 4400, with application to middle school. ($325.00 course fee)

General Education Courses (EDU)

EDU 0500. Orientation to Schools (0). This course is designed to be the formal vehicle to disseminate school information for student teachers and / or practicums and for the background check required by all teacher licensure candidates prior to undertaking practicum or student teaching in schools or other educational settings. All candidates must enroll in this course once per calendar year for the duration of their licensure program.

EDU 1950-4950. Studies Abroad (3-18). Study in a foreign country. Individual course titles and locations are assigned for each course taken. See Studies Abroad program for details.

EDU 1990-4990. Special Studies (1-3).

EDU 2100. Foundations of Education (3). (Observation and participation required.) This course provides an overview of the functions of the educational profession. Historical and philosophical development of educational theory and practice in America from the beginning to the present will aid the student in examining current issues in education.

EDU 2110. Educational Psychology (3-4). A study is made of the processes of education, including such topics as learning, motivation, human growth and development, individual differences, evaluation of achievement, personality, and techniques of studying education.

EDU 4110. Reflective Teaching (3). Corequisite: Relevant Student Teaching section. This reflective or inquiry-oriented course looks at the complicated activity of teaching and the conceptual schemata teachers must acquire. Emphasis is placed on developing teaching habits that are consciously informed actions. The course will also require candidates to complete an Action research project to demonstrate their impact on student learning.

EDU 4130. Classroom Organization and Management (3). An overview of research-based managerial, organizational, and instructional strategies for the classroom teacher is provided. Emphasis is placed on planning, implementing, and maintaining effective teaching strategies.

EDU 4270. Teaching Theatre and Drama in the School System (3). This course examines the instructional methods and practices utilized by teachers of educational theatre and drama. Special emphasis is placed upon implementing theatre programs in the school setting. A 20-hour practicum is required.

EDU 4290. Using Educational Technology in the Classroom (2). Instruction and laboratory experience in the use of computers and computer software relative to the best techniques and practices in classroom uses are explored. Registration by permission of the instructor. (formerly listed as EDU 430).

EDU 4310-4390. Special Studies in Instructional Material (1-4).

EDU 4500. Internship (6). An alternative to student teaching for one semester, the full academic year internship allows the student to experience the role of the teacher under the supervision of Belmont faculty, classroom mentors, and the school principal. The internship year coincides with the probationary year of teaching. Must be taken both fall and spring semesters. ($325.00 course fee)

EDU 4510-4990. Special Studies (Workshops) (1-3).

Secondary Education Division Courses (EDU)

EDU 1990-4990. Special Studies (1-3).

EDU 2223. Human Development and Education (3). This course examines development from various theoretical perspectives and at stages relevant to all levels of formal education. A major focus is the educational implications that flow from each developmental perspective. Students will also examine the research relevant to the issues in human development.

EDU 3243. Adolescent Literature (3) This course examines book selection criteria for junior and senior high school classes and school and public library collections. Uses of books in differing content areas are stressed.

EDU 4203. Teaching in the Secondary School (4). Corequisite: EDU 4403. (For prerequisites, see “ Admission to Student Teaching.”) This course examines strategies for instruction: measurement, evaluation, counseling, classroom management, and the preparation of materials for the student teaching experience. Observation in the schools is required.

EDU 4213. Teaching Mathematics in the Secondary School (3). This course emphasizes the methods and procedures of classroom instruction as related to secondary mathematics. This course is required of all mathematics majors desiring teacher licensure at the secondary level.

EDU 4233. Teaching English In the Secondary School (3). The prospective English and speech teacher is instructed in techniques for motivation and the acquisition of skills in reading, writing, and speaking. This course is required of all English majors desiring teacher licensure. Observation in the schools is required.

EDU 4243. Teaching Foreign Language in the Secondary School (3). This course examines principles of language acquisition, the theory of methodologies and the application of teaching techniques to the major skill areas – listening, speaking, reading and writing. Required of all modern foreign language majors desiring secondary licensure.

EDU 4253. Teaching Natural Sciences in the Secondary School (2). The student is directed to the objectives, materials, and procedures in teaching natural science on the junior and senior high school levels. Required of all majors in any of the sciences desiring teacher licensure.

EDU 4263. Teaching Social Studies in the Secondary School (2). The student is directed to the objectives, materials, and procedures in teaching social studies on the junior and senior high school levels. Required of all majors in any of the social studies desiring teacher licensure.

EDU 4273. Teaching Business in the Secondary School (3). A course concerned with methods and procedures in teaching bookkeeping, typing, shorthand, and general business. Required of all majors in business administration desiring teacher licensure.

EDU 4293. Teaching Reading in the Content Areas (3). Specific ideas and techniques are presented to show how instruction in the reading skills can be incorporated into any subject area. Techniques of diagnosis and individualizing are considered.

EDU 4300. Practicum in Education (1-4). This course is designed to give students additional work experience in the field of secondary education. Registration by permission of the instructor.

EDU 4310-4390. Special Studies in Secondary Education (1-4).

EDU 4403. Student Teaching in the Secondary School (8). Corequisite: EDU 4203. (For prerequisite see “ Admission to Student Teaching.”). This laboratory course gives the student teacher experience in the secondary school and an opportunity to observe and use appropriate classroom procedures under the direct supervision of an experienced teacher. This course requires satisfactory presentation of a professional portfolio and includes a seminar which meets weekly during the full-time student teaching experience. ($150.00 course fee)

EDU 4423. Literacy Across the Secondary Curriculum (3). Students will gain techniques in developing reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking through any subject area of the secondary school. Particular attention will be paid to diagnosis and further development of reading strategies, reading for meaning in subject area literature, and writing for subject area audiences. The course is required for all secondary (7-12 and 9-12) licensure students. The course is cross-listed with EDU 527.

Geography Courses (GEO)

GEO 1990-4990. Special Studies (1-3).

GEO 2300. Geography (3). A study of the social and historical relationship of divergent cultures emphasizing such factors as location, natural resources, and demographic features.

Special Education Courses (EDU)

EDU 3510. Foundations of Special Education (3). Overview of the field of Special Education including historical perspectives, programs, and legal provisions.

EDU 3520. Communication / Collaboration for Exceptional Children (3). Designed to introduce the pre-service teacher to the skills necessary to work effectively as a professional member of a multidisciplinary team. Skill orientation and development will emphasize the social concept. communication and collaboration skills, and team building skills necessary for special educators.

EDU 3530. Assessment for Decision Making (3). Collection and use of educational data to assess and teach students with diverse learning needs. Educational planning, material adaptation, and curriculum development will also be addressed.

EDU 3540. Instructional and Behavior Management for Students with Mild Disabilities (3). Designed to develop the instructional and behavioral management competencies required to teach students with mild disabilities and to develop behavioral management competencies required to conduct functional behavioral analysis and the application of behavioral analytic strategies for students with special needs.

EDU 3800. Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners (3-4). Corequisite: EDU 4300. Overview of exceptionalities; introduction to pedagogical, curricular, and social considerations involved in educating diverse learners in the classroom. (Required for any licensure.)

EDU 5800. Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners (3-4). Overview of exceptionalities; introduction to pedagogical, curricular, and social considerations involved in educating diverse learners in the classroom. (Required for any licensure.)

Montessori Education Courses (EDU)

EDU 2126. Foundations of Montessori Education (3). To provide an in-depth examination of Montessori philosophy and methodology. Particular emphasis is placed on Montessori's views of the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth of children from birth to six years. Historical and biographical perspectives are also presented.

EDU 2136. Integrating Self and Community (3). To show by lecture and demonstration a group of activities known in Montessori education as the practical life exercises. These re designed to enable independent functioning, grace and courtesy in social situations, and self-esteem among children of three to six years of age. They also meet the child's need for concentration, coordination, and order.

EDU 2146. Sensory Exploration (3). To show by lecture and demonstration a group of activities known in Montessori education as sensory exercises. They are designed to help the child explore the world with detail and accurate classification, knowledge, and imagination. The elements of critical thinking and problem solving are also explored.

EDU 3156. Literacy Curriculum and Instruction (3). To provide information and pedagogy about the development of spoken and written language in areas of daily life, story telling, composition, literature, social studies, science, music, and art. The functional aspects of grammar, syntax, and reading analysis are also presented.

EDU 3166 Math and Science Curriculum and Instruction (3). To show by lecture and demonstration the exercises of mathematics including sensorial foundations for counting, arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and fractions. Biological and physical science experiences appropriate for young children are also included.

EDU 3176 Cultural Subjects (3). To focus on Art, Music, Geography, and Social Studies as a way to experience and explore culture. Philosophy, rationale, and appropriate exercises are presented with each subject.

EDU 4186 Child, Society, and the World (3). To provide a course in child development that explores various theories for the exploration and understanding of the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual development of the young child. Aspects of educational psychology such as learning theories, motivation, classroom management, and assessment are also discussed. Family involvement and community partnerships are also addressed.

EDU 4196 Methods of Observation (3). To provide techniques and experiences for observing all aspects of a classroom setting such as individual children, materials, arrangement of furniture, architectural and aesthetic elements, color and light, lessons, the teacher, and the class as a whole. Opportunities to learn and practice these concepts and skills are provided.

EDU 4116 Montessori Internship (3). To provide the student with a supervised teaching / learning experience and a period of observation, internalization, and further study to bring together the theory and practice of Montessori education. This takes place over two consecutive semesters for five days a week, four hours a day in approved internship sites. This is internship for the first semester. There is a fee of $325 attached to the course.

EDU 4126 Montessori Internship (3). To provide the student with a supervised teaching / learning experience and a period of observation, internalization, and further study to bring together the theory and practice of Montessori education. This takes place over two consecutive semesters for five days a week, four hours a day in approved internship sites. This is internship for the second semester. There is a fee of $325 attached to the course.

Second Language Acquisition (EDU)

EDU 4215. English Language Learners (3). An introduction to English learners of diverse language and cultural backgrounds. Focuses on an understanding of special needs of these learners and the strategies to promote the language and literacy development of all students.