The educational studies major is for those interested in a career in the field of education but not necessarily classroom teaching. This major is a non-teaching licensure program that provides a strong background in educational theory, practice and research. Research is conducted and disseminated on varied educational aspects of teaching, learning, and human development through discovery, teaching and engagement activities. Sample signature areas of discovery include:
- Using assistive technology to support school-based and community-based instruction for students with special needs.
- Developing effective instructional strategies in mathematics problem solving for students with learning disabilities.
- Developing identification tools and pedagogical models for underserved gifted and talented populations including students with diverse cultural backgrounds and children who live in poverty.
- Supporting motivation for and learning of science in young children including children from diverse cultural backgrounds and those living in poverty.
- Supporting students’ psychological well-being (e.g., coping with death and dying, suicide prevention, multicultural issues, adult attachment).
Four strands run through and guide the program: diversity, technology, field experience, and
performance assessment (including the use of electronic portfolios).
Points of Pride
- Individualized selection of education elective courses in an area of interest.
- First field experience as early as the second semester of the freshman year.
- Urban field experience opportunity.
- Study abroad programs to earn credit while learning and teaching in another culture.