Middle-Level certification students are preparing for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification in grades 4–8. Upon completion of the program and certification, they will be able to teach any subject in grades 4–6 and the concentration content area (English/ Language Arts; Mathematics; or Social Studies) in grades 7 and 8. Middle-Level Social Studies majors will also minor in American Studies. Students in this program may also choose to earn a Pennsylvania certification in special education (PreK-8).
Why Study Middle Level Education at La Salle?
This major prepares students to teach in regular education classrooms. Given that schools need highly qualified educators who can work with students in regular education, inclusion, and special education classroom, this major makes graduates marketable to schools both locally and globally. Elementary teachers also have the opportunity to impact the lives of children early and set a positive tone for later educational experiences.
From both developmental and ecological perspectives, this course explores the diversity of individuals in society and schools, including race, ethnicity, regional background, exceptionality, socio-economic status, gender, sexual orientation, age, and religion. Personal beliefs and attitudes surrounding issues of human diversity and its impact on the family, community, and society are examined. The course provides an understanding of the legal and ethical issues in educating students from diverse backgrounds and with disabilities. Additionally, the course highlights the characteristics of students with special needs and ways to accommodate their needs in the classroom setting.
EDC 320 – Teaching Literacy in the Inclusive Classroom
This course prepares preservice teachers with foundational knowledge and skills needed to be effective teachers of literacy to PreK-4 students in regular education settings who demonstrate significant problems in reading and writing. It prepares teachers to use diagnostic assessments as a basis for planning preventive and remedial instruction. Emphasis is placed on understanding and analysis of learning problems and the design and implementation of instructional interventions in reading and language arts. Field experience is required of all students, and course content and assignments are linked to this experience.
EDC 401 – The Art and Science of Teaching
This course emphasizes teaching and learning within an educational technology framework. The focus is on elements of the educational process characterized by teacher involvement in decision-making: school-based curriculum development, instructional design, instructional methods, instructional materials and resources, educational technology using idea and product technologies, methods of evaluation, classroom management, and adjusting curriculum and instruction to the needs of special populations. Emphasis is placed upon the act of teaching as both art and science. Field experience (two hours each week) and research papers are required. For Secondary Education majors only. This course has been designated as the writing emphasis course for Secondary Education majors.
A degree in education offers more career options than teaching. A background in education can prepare you to take a leadership role in many other education-related jobs. Consider being a:
Teacher
Administrator
School Superintendent
Secretary of Education
Curriculum Specialist
Instructional Coach or Leader
Outreach Specialist
Non-profit Program Coordinator
Student Support Specialist
Community Liaison
Accreditation
La Salle University’s program of study is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
