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

Program Overview

La Salle University's Middle Level (Grades 4-8) / Special Education (B.A.) program prepares students for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification in grades 4–8 and a PreK-4 Special education certification. Graduates can teach any subject in grades 4–6 and the concentration content area in grades 7 and 8, as well as special education. The program combines coursework in middle level education and special education, providing students with a deep understanding of child development, learning theories, and effective teaching strategies. Graduates are prepared for a variety of career opportunities in education, including middle school teacher, special education teacher, curriculum developer, educational consultant, and school administrator.

Program Outline

Program:

Degree Overview:

• Program: Middle Level (Grades 4-8) / Special Education (B.A.)
• Duration: 4 years
• Delivery: On Campus
• Overview: This program prepares students for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification in grades 4–8 and a PreK-4 Special education certification.
Graduates 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, as well as special education.
• Objectives:
• Prepare students to teach in regular or special education classrooms.
• Equip students to work with diverse learners in inclusive settings.
• Develop strong pedagogical skills and content knowledge.
• Foster a commitment to social justice and equity in education.

Outline:

Program Content:

• The program combines coursework in middle level education and special education.
• Students will develop a deep understanding of child development, learning theories, and effective teaching strategies.
• They will also gain specialized knowledge and skills in areas like assessment, behavior management, and differentiated instruction.

Structure:

• The program consists of a sequence of coursework, field experiences, and a culminating student teaching experience.
• Students will take courses in areas such as educational foundations, literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, special education, and classroom management.
• Field experiences provide opportunities to observe and work with students in real-world classroom settings.
• The student teaching experience allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a supervised setting.

Course Schedule:

• The program follows a traditional semester schedule.
• Students typically take 4-5 courses per semester.
• A sample course schedule can be found on the La Salle University website.

Modules:

• The program includes several modules, each focusing on a specific area of expertise.
• Some example modules are:
• Foundations of Education:
This module covers topics such as the history of education, educational philosophy, and the role of the teacher in society.
• Child Development and Learning: This module explores the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development of children from birth through adolescence.
• Teaching and Learning Strategies: This module provides students with an overview of various teaching methods and strategies, including differentiated instruction, technology integration, and assessment.
• Special Education: This module focuses on the identification, assessment, and instruction of students with disabilities.
• It covers topics such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assistive technology, and positive behavior supports.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods: Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, quizzes, assignments, projects, and presentations.
• Assessment criteria: Assessments are designed to measure students' knowledge, understanding, and application of the program's learning objectives.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, simulations, group projects, and hands-on activities.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in middle level education and special education.
• Unique approaches: The program incorporates several unique features, including a strong focus on social justice and equity in education, a partnership with local schools, and opportunities for students to engage in research and scholarship.

Careers:

• Career opportunities: Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of career opportunities in education, including:
• Middle school teacher
• Special education teacher
• Curriculum developer
• Educational consultant
• School administrator

Other:

• **Middle-Level Social Studies majors will also minor in American Studies.

• The program prepares students to be highly qualified educators who can work with diverse learners in inclusive settings.
• For more detailed information, please refer to the La Salle University website or contact the program director.