PSY 220 Child and Adolescent Development

3 credits

This course covers the cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and moral development of children from infancy through adolescence. Basic theories of developmental psychology, the role of biology vs. environment, and the role of scientifically derived information as applied to children's development will be explored. Prerequisite: PSY 101

EDU 324 Educational Psychology

3 credits
This course is designed to provide a theoretical background for understanding learning motivation and classroom management. Major theories of learning are examined and connected with instructional planning and student study. Research on motivation is presented to assist pre-service teachers in creating environments that are supportive of self-direction and promote life-long learning. Classroom management models connected with behaviorist, social learning theory and cognitive learning theory will be critiqued toward the end of helping novice teachers to develop approaches to classroom management which are consistent with student-centered learning. Prerequisite: PSY 101 and PSY 220.

EDU 236 Technology for Educators

3 credits

This course focuses on the North Carolina advanced technology competencies for educators. Emphasis is placed on using technology-based tools to facilitate teaching strategies specific to meet curriculum goals and manage instruction. Required for all teacher education majors.

EDU 355 The Exceptional Child

3 credits

This course introduces the student to the exceptional child. Mental Retardation, Behavior Disorders, Learning Disabilities, communication Disorders, Autism, Hearing Impairments, Visual Impairments, Physical and Health Disorders and the Gifted and Talented are discussed. Effective classroom and behavioral management techniques are explored, along with the educator’s legal and ethical responsibility to exceptional children, working under state and federal guidelines. Ways to adapt the regular classroom environment, expectation, and requirements to appropriately meet the needs of mainstreamed students are also discussed. Prerequisites: PSY 101.

EDU 322 Reading and Writing in the Content Areas, 6-12

3 credits

This course is designed to prepare students for teaching reading and writing skills to middle and high school students in physical education and health. The course will present an overview of the major approaches used to teach communications skills, which include reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing. Cooperative learning, textbook analysis, and various assessment procedures will also be reviewed. Students will be required to teach demonstration lessons, participate in a field experience, develop a portfolio, and participate actively in the classroom’s learning community.