This course examines the major issues in United States education and their historical, social, cultural, economic, and philosophical bases. The course also examines the implications of instructing diverse student populations.
Topics and Objectives
Early American Education
- Examine early American education.
School Practices
- Examine how school practices affect teacher development and student learning.
Effective Schools
- Identify the characteristics of effective schools.
Classical Philosophical Concepts
- Identify the classical philosophical concepts and the educational philosophies of American schools.
Educational Philosophies in American Schools
- Identify those educational philosophies that influence practice in American schools.
The Law and American Education
- Analyze the impact of law on American education.
Bilingual Education
- Analyze the pros and cons of Bilingual Education.
School Choice
- Explore the dynamics of school choice.
Middle Schools
- Analyze the strategic elements of the Middle School movement.
Patterns of Curriculum Design
- Define the different patterns of curriculum design and school practices.
Delivering Instruction
- Compare the different strategies for delivering instruction.
Education Reform Movements
- Debate the current educational reform movements.
Career Ladder/Merit Pay
- Examine the issues associated with professional mobility.