Middle Level (Grades 4-8) Education (B.A.)

Program Overview

La Salle University's Middle Level Education program prepares students for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification in grades 4-8, equipping them to teach any subject in grades 4-6 and their concentration area (English/Language Arts, Mathematics, or Social Studies) in grades 7 and 8. The program emphasizes both the art and science of teaching, integrating educational technology and providing field experience opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as middle school teachers, special education teachers, or other educational roles.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Prepare students for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification in grades 4-8.
• Equip graduates to teach any subject in grades 4-6 and their concentration area (English/Language Arts, Mathematics, or Social Studies) in grades 7 and 8.
• Enable graduates to teach in regular education, inclusion, and special education classrooms.
• Empower graduates to make a positive impact on the lives of children early in their educational journey.

Program Description:

This program focuses on preparing future educators to teach in middle-level classrooms. It emphasizes the development of essential skills and knowledge for effective teaching in diverse learning environments. Students gain a deep understanding of child development, learning theories, curriculum development, instructional strategies, assessment practices, and classroom management techniques. The program offers three concentration areas:

• English/Language Arts: Focuses on developing strong literacy skills and a love for reading and writing in students.
• Mathematics: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to teach mathematics effectively and engage students in mathematical thinking.
• Social Studies: Provides students with a comprehensive understanding of history, government, and social issues and prepares them to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students.
In addition to their concentration area, students in this program can also choose to earn a Pennsylvania certification in special education (PreK-8), further expanding their career options.

Highlighted Features:

• Emphasis on both the art and science of teaching.
• Integration of educational technology into the curriculum.
• Field experience opportunities to gain practical teaching experience.
• Opportunities to develop leadership skills and participate in service-learning projects.
• A supportive and collaborative learning environment.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Covers a wide range of topics, including child development, learning theories, curriculum development, instructional strategies, assessment practices, classroom management, special education, and the use of educational technology.
• Students choose a concentration area: English/Language Arts, Mathematics, or Social Studies.
• Students can also choose to earn a Pennsylvania certification in special education (PreK-8).

Structure:

• Four-year program leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree.
• On-campus program with a mix of classroom instruction, field experiences, and independent study.
• Students typically take 4-5 courses per semester.

Course Schedule:

• Specific course schedules vary depending on the semester and student's concentration area.
• Some example courses include:
• Educational Diversity in America
• Teaching Literacy in the Inclusive Classroom
• The Art and Science of Teaching
• Adolescent Development and Learning
• Curriculum and Instruction in the Middle Grades

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods are used to evaluate student learning, including:
• Exams
• Quizzes
• Assignments
• Projects
• Field experience evaluations

Assessment Criteria:

• Students are assessed on their knowledge, understanding, and application of the course material, as well as their ability to demonstrate effective teaching skills in the classroom.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Discussions
• Simulations
• Case studies
• Technology-based learning

Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members who are experts in their fields and passionate about education.
• Some faculty members include:
• Dr. Laura Roy, Chair
• Dr. Mary Smith
• Dr. John Jones

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes the use of technology to enhance teaching and learning.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in field experiences in diverse educational settings.
• The program offers a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• Graduates can pursue careers as middle school teachers in public, private, or charter schools.
• They can also work as special education teachers, curriculum specialists, or educational leaders.
• Other potential career paths include:
• School counselor
• Educational therapist
• After-school program director
• Educational researcher

Career Opportunities:

• Graduates are well-prepared to meet the growing demand for qualified educators in middle schools.
• The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in a variety of educational settings.
• Graduates are highly sought after by schools and other educational organizations.

Outcomes:

• The program has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers in education.
• Graduates are consistently employed in teaching positions or other educational roles.
• Many graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees in education or related fields.

Other:

• The program is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
• La Salle University is a private, Catholic university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
• The university offers a variety of resources and support services to students, including academic advising, career services, and financial aid.