Faculty: Graduate School of Social Sciences

This specialization offers a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of elementary school teaching, focusing on the development of educational skills, curriculum design, and classroom management. Students will explore key topics such as child development, literacy and mathematics instruction, and comprehensive teaching strategies. The specialization emphasizes the integration of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for careers as elementary school teachers, educational consultants, and curriculum developers.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the fundamental principles of elementary education and its role in enhancing student learning and development.
• Develop skills in designing and implementing effective lesson and curriculum plans.
• Learn techniques to manage classroom environments and promote positive student behavior.
• Explore child development principles and apply them to teaching practices.
• Understand the impact of inclusive education and differentiated instruction on student success.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in the field of elementary education.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address contemporary educational issues.

Main Outline:

1. Introduction to Elementary Education
   • Overview of elementary education, its history, and importance in the educational system.
2. Theories of Child Development and Learning
   • Basics of child development, including cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
   • Techniques for applying learning theories to teaching practices.
3. Literacy Instruction
   • Principles of literacy instruction, including reading, writing, and language development.
   • Techniques to enhance literacy skills among elementary students.
4. Mathematics Instruction
   • Study of mathematics instruction, including number sense, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
   • Techniques for teaching mathematical concepts to elementary students.
5. Classroom Management and Behavior Support
   • Basics of classroom management, including creating a positive learning environment and managing student behavior.
   • Techniques for implementing behavior support strategies.
6. Inclusive and Differentiated Education
   • Principles of inclusive education, including strategies for supporting diverse learners.
   • Differentiated instruction techniques to meet the needs of all students.
7. Curriculum Design and Evaluation
   • Study of curriculum design, including aligning teaching with educational standards.
   • Techniques for assessing student learning and using data to inform instruction.
8. Emerging Trends in Elementary Education
   • Impact of emerging trends, such as technology integration, project-based learning, and social-emotional learning, on elementary education.
   • Techniques for integrating new trends into teaching practices.

Evaluation Methods:

• Practical teaching training and classroom observations to assess practical teaching skills.
• Written assignments and research papers to evaluate knowledge of educational theories and practices.
• Presentations and reports on lesson plans and curriculum design.
• Participation in group discussions and debates on contemporary issues in elementary education.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher" by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong.
• "Teaching Children Science: A Discovery Approach" by Joseph Abruscato and Donald A. Derosa.
• "Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally" by John A. Van de Walle, Karen S. Karp, and Jennifer M. Bay-Williams.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of education, psychology, and child development is recommended. This specialization is suitable for students in education, child development, and related fields.

Duration:

This specialization typically lasts for four academic years, with a blend of lectures, practical training, and hands-on exercises.

Certification:

Upon successful completion, students may earn a degree in elementary teacher education, depending on the program and institution.

Target Audience:

This specialization is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in education, child development, and related fields, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their skills in elementary school teaching. It prepares students and professionals to excel in elementary education, leveraging theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and an understanding of emerging trends to create engaging and effective educational experiences for young students.