Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Program Description ​The Bachelor of Science program in Elementary Education prepares students to teach 1st through 6th grade in a variety of urban and suburban education settings, including public and private elementary schools. Students learn educational theories and effective teaching practices, participate in field experiences, which require observation and participation in teaching activities at multiple schools, and student teaching. Students should meet early and regularly with their advisor to design and monitor their program of study. The program combines theoretical principles of education and field work with the student's choice of major. Students follow a general pattern of study for middle school and high school levels. In all cases, appropriate field experience plays an integral role. Students entering the program must be able and willing to devote themselves to a program requiring a minimum of 155-170 hours of daytime field experiences in schools. These school-based clinical hours are completed in conjunction with methodology courses that require students to spend a half-day each week in a school. In addition, the student must spend a minimum of 11 weeks in full-time student teaching. Along with general elementary education courses, EE majors are required to complete a minor at the university. Licensure Illinois Professional Educator License with endorsement in Elementary Education (self-contained general education) (grades 1 - 6), an Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) approved program. Learning Outcomes Students will be able to: Plan instruction that supports students in meeting rigorous learning goals, drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, and pedagogy. Demonstrate a variety of instructional strategies as they support learners in developing a deep understanding of content areas and their connections, as well as building skills needed to apply knowledge in meaningful ways. Apply their understanding of multiple purposes for and methods of assessment in order to monitor and evaluate student progress, make decisions regarding instructional practices, and guide students in reflecting upon their progress toward learning targets. Use the central concepts, standards, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) they teach to create meaningful learning experiences based upon evidence-based practices that ensure mastery of content. Demonstrate an interest in ongoing professional learning, use evidence to evaluate practice, advocate for students, and exhibit professionalism and ethical behavior in all interactions.