The Art and Science of Teaching

Course Description

This course focuses on the foundations of education, including the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful teacher. Each student will examine personal reasons for wanting to teach and create a professional development plan that will focus his/her work throughout the program. Additionally, each student will begin work on a standards-based professional portfolio. Other topics include basic educational philosophies; trends in education, including the role of technology; legal and ethical issues in education; the professionalization of teaching in the United States; and "teaching as an art and a science."

Topics and Objectives

Communication and Research Skills

• Demonstrate effective oral and written skills in individual and group work.
• Integrate American Psychological Association (APA) format and standards in all oral and written course work.

Professional Development

• Examine issues associated with teaching as a career choice.
• Examine the professionalization of teaching in the United States.
• Examine educational philosophies.
• Describe the uses of a professional teacher portfolio.
• Identify the components of a professional teacher portfolio.
• Develop a professional growth plan.
• Determine how a teacher's personal background, experiences, and characteristics affect his/her teaching methods and learning styles.

Introduction to the Teaching Framework

• Observe teacher performance using the classroom observation checklist.
• Examine the University of Phoenix Program Standards.
• Analyze the skills outlined within the University of Phoenix Program Rubric.
• Recognize how planning and preparation involve content knowledge, use of resources, instructional design, and assessment.
• Identify the elements of a positive learning environment.
• Outline the elements of effective instruction.
• Explain how the professional educator's role encompasses parent/community involvement, professional practice, and reflection.

Foundations of Education

• Examine the history of American education.
• Identify the functions, purposes, and organization of American schools.
• Examine legal and ethical issues in education.
• Compare and contrast varied political perspectives regarding the purpose of schooling in the United States.
• Analyze critical educational issues facing schools and teachers.
• Analyze the characteristics of effective schools.

Trends in Education

• Explain the impact of testing on students and teachers.
• Explain how curriculum content has evolved.
• Analyze the demographic changes in society and the impact on education.
• Examine the role of technology in the classroom.
• Demonstrate an understanding of alternative education.