Secondary Teacher Education Program (6-12)

Program Overview

Bridgewater College's Secondary Teacher Education Program prepares students to become inspiring educators for grades 6-12. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences, cross-disciplinary mastery, and innovative teaching methods to transform classrooms into thriving communities. Graduates are eligible for licensure in Virginia and many other states through reciprocal agreements. The program boasts a high job placement rate, with graduates securing teaching positions in schools across the United States.

Program Outline

The program emphasizes hands-on experiences, cross-disciplinary mastery, and innovative teaching methods to transform classrooms into thriving communities.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach in middle and high school classrooms.
• Foster a passion for teaching and a commitment to inspiring students to reach their full potential.
• Prepare graduates to become licensed educators in Virginia and many other states through reciprocal certification agreements.

Program Description:

• Program Length: Approximately four years (depending on transfer credits)
• Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, with a major in the chosen content area and a minor in education

Outline:

Content Courses: Students must complete a major in their chosen content area, such as English, history, math, science, or social studies.

These courses provide deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

Education Courses: Students complete a series of education courses that focus on pedagogical skills, classroom management, assessment, curriculum development, and instructional strategies.

These courses include:

• EDUC 140 - Intro to Teaching (3 Credits)
• EDUC 200 - Educational Psychology (3 Credits)
• EDUC 215 - Diversity in the Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 334 - Literacy in the Content Area (3 Credits)
• EDUC 372E - Classroom Management, Secondary (4 Credits)
• EDUC 380X - Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques (3 Credits)
• EDUC 412 - Curriculum and Instruction Second Class Secondary Classroom (4 Credits)
• EDUC 452 - Seminar in Educational Practices, Secondary (1 Credit)
• EDUC 470 - Professional Student Teaching (13 Credits)

Clinical Experiences:

• Students engage in a series of clinical experiences throughout the program, starting with observations and progressing to full-time student teaching.
These experiences provide opportunities to apply their pedagogical knowledge and skills in real-world classroom settings.
• Required clinical experiences include:
• EDUC 215: Diversity in the Classroom: 10 hours
• EDUC 334: Content Area Literacy: 20 hours
• EDUC 372: Classroom Management Secondary: 20 hours
• EDUC 412: Curriculum and Instruction: 20 hours
• EDUC 380X: Practicum in Current Teaching Techniques: over 100 hours
• EDUC 470: Student Teaching: 150 hours

Assessment:

• Coursework: Regular assessments including assignments, tests, and projects are used to measure understanding of course material.
• Clinical Experiences: Performance during clinical experiences is evaluated by supervising teachers and college supervisors using observation and feedback.
• Professional Dispositions: Professional dispositions such as collaboration, communication, and critical reflection are continuously assessed throughout the program.
Active learning strategies, technology integration, and differentiated instruction are emphasized.
• Faculty: Experienced and highly qualified faculty members with expertise in various content areas and pedagogical approaches provide instruction and mentorship.
• Unique Approaches:
• Students gain experience in using technology effectively in the classroom.
• The program focuses on developing students' skills in fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments.
• Emphasis is placed on preparing students to teach diverse learners and to address the individual needs of all students.

Careers:

• Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of career opportunities in secondary education, including teaching positions in public and private schools, as well as roles in curriculum development, educational leadership, and educational technology.
• Program Outcomes: The program boasts a high job placement rate for graduates, with many securing teaching positions in schools across the United States.
• Additional Resources: The program provides career services and support to help graduates with their job search and career development.

Other:

• Licensure Reciprocity: Graduates are eligible for licensure in Virginia and many other states through reciprocal agreements.
• Student Teaching: Student teaching placements are available in a variety of schools and settings within a 75-mile radius of Bridgewater College.
• Financial Aid: Students are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

Conclusion:

The Bridgewater College Secondary Teacher Education Program provides a comprehensive and hands-on preparation for future educators.