Course Descriptions
Elementary Studies
MEE 7204
Teacher Leadership and Collaboration
3 credits
This course has been designed to assist K-6 and middle/secondary level education teacher candidates in developing the attributes, knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to serve as a teacher leader. The course will explore teacher leadership in a variety of capacities including but not limited to instruction/curriculum development, assessment, school reform, classroom management, technology, advisory/mentoring, on-going professional development, and collaboration. A strong emphasis will be placed on ethical issues related to teaching and learning. Appropriate and effective oral and written communication skills will also be discussed. Moreover, teacher candidates will apply research and critical thinking skills to demonstrate scholarship related to issues in teacher leadership.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7601
Education of Diverse Populations and Exceptional Children
3 credits
This course will provide students with a variety of teaching strategies that enhance teaching and learning in an inclusive, multi-cultural classroom including students with exceptionalities. Students will explore ways to better understand how context and culture affect teaching and learning, and will acquire strategies to support learning for students whose first language is not English as well as for children of special needs. Emphasis will be placed on an understanding of how student learning is influenced by factors such as: poverty, prior learning, race, language of origin, culture, gender, health, family structure, religion, and community. IEP and 504 Development will be practiced.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7603
Instructional Strategies in Elementary Education
3 credits
Instructional Strategies (Kindergarten through Grade Six) is designed to provide teacher education candidates with an opportunity to study about, reflect upon, question, become knowledgeable about, and develop skills in using a variety of instructional methods while applying and practicing these methods in a collaborative and constructive setting. Participants will learn how to plan and present instruction clearly, as well as how to establish and maintain an effective learning environment.
Major topics include: characteristics of effective instructional strategies and their impact on various learners; differentiated instruction; planning for instruction; developing effective lessons using a variety of approaches & technologies; assessment of student learning; and professional development. Attention is focused on the learner and the interpretation of physiological, psychological, sociological, emotional, cultural, linguistic, and environmental factors which influence learning.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7604
Technology for Instruction
3 credits
This course prepares candidates to successfully integrate digital media and technology into learner curricula. Through demonstrations, hands-on use, and application projects, candidates gain experience with the roles digital tools play to support teaching methods and learning strategies associated with a continuum of learning approaches and goals. Candidates develop skills in digital citizenship and copyright, HTML, creating an online presence, social learning and collaboration, differentiation using technology, digital storytelling, use of Web 2.1 tools (e.g., content management systems, social networks, e-portfolios), digital video, and virtual worlds, and common software packages in order to design and formatively assess engaging learning communities. Embedded in the course are the skills needed to use close reading strategies both in personal use and in designing digital lessons around Common Core Literacy Standards with students. Candidates will also learn how to access and collect data.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102
MEE 7607
Health and Physical Education
3 credits
This course focuses on teaching the mind, body, and spirit components of a healthy lifestyle. Particular emphasis will be placed on the important role of exercise, family and community, work and diet in maintaining good health. Recent findings and reports in medicine, exercise, diet, and nutrition will be discussed. This course includes health services, health education, and healthy school environments.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7631
Child Growth and Development
3 credits
This course is a survey and examination of development from the prenatal period through adolescence with emphasis on the characteristics of children who are in kindergarten through grade six. Social, cognitive, and physical development are included. Appropriate interventions for students with developmental gaps are a focus. The role of the family in child development and safety for young children are included. Students are required to prepare a case study of a child in grades K-6.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7632
Language and Literacy
3 credits
This course explores the development of oral language and literacy skills in children. Candidates develop a practical understanding of structured literacy instruction in major skill domains including phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics and word recognition, fluency, vocabulary, both listening and reading comprehension, and written expression. Specifically, instruction includes a multi-componential instructional focus on all of the following components of evidence-based reading instruction: language acquisition, literacy development, phonological processing, phonics and word recognition development, spelling, fluency, and automaticity development, vocabulary development, text comprehension development, assessment administration, and interpretation, letter formation, orthographic processing, morphological awareness, the structure of language, language-based learning disabilities, written expression, and interventions for struggling readers. Teacher candidates examine language and its relationship to developing literacy in English based on one's native language. Teacher candidates develop an awareness of social and cultural language differences, language acquisition of young children across cultural and linguistic groups, assessment and instructional strategies of language and communication, and facilitation of literacy about the six components of reading.Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7633
Integrated Methods to Teaching Elementary Language Arts/Reading
3 credits
This course enables candidates to build upon and apply knowledge of the elements of science-based reading practices with a focus on current state and national content standards in order to plan for a series of sequenced lesson plans. Emphasis is on the development of lesson plans and sequences of instruction that reflect the use of a variety of methods and materials for teaching the skills of language arts and reading and the integrated process between reading and writing. Establishing objectives, including critical thinking objectives, evaluative criteria, and appropriate evaluation techniques for assessing progress are studied. Course activities and learning continue to build candidate skills related to phonological processing, phonics and word recognition development, text comprehension development, orthographic processing, morphological awareness, the structure of language, and written expression.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7604, MEE 7603 and MEE 7632
MEE 7634
Integrated Methods for Teaching Elementary Social Studies
3 credits
Students learn selection and evaluation of teaching methods, use of curriculum, use of technology, and preparation of instructional materials appropriate for social science content. Emphasis is placed on an integrated unit approach (integrating both the social sciences with other major content areas). A virtual clinical experience from schools using ''best practices'' is required.
Prerequisite(s): MEE 6102, MEE 7604 and MEE 7603
MEE 7636
Fine Arts & Literature for Children and Adolescents
2 credits
This course is a study of literature for children and is designed to introduce teacher candidates to a wide range of genres including classics and contemporary materials. Particular attention is given to diverse representations in children's literature and the importance that diversity and equitable representation in children's literature play in social and emotional development. Candidates utilize their knowledge of the major components of literacy and learner development to create literacy-rich learning environments with attention to student development, culture, and families. Candidates explore instruction connected to the Language Comprehension strand of Scarborough's Rope as they design activities to build vocabulary, text comprehension, and oral language. Candidates develop interactive read-aloud to develop morphological and phonological awareness in young readers. Candidates build activities to strengthen student's written expression as well.Prerequisite(s): MED 6102 and MEE 7604
MEE 7637
Integrated Methods for Teaching Elementary Mathematics
3 credits
Students are introduced to mathematics learning strategies and the methods and strategies for teaching mathematics. Students have the opportunity to analyze programs and learning materials as they set up environments and situations which stimulate interest in learning mathematics. A special emphasis is on how mathematics can be integrated with other major content areas in the teaching and learning process. Modeling strategies, the appropriate use of manipulatives, the integral use of calculators and computers, learning in cooperative groups, reading and writing to learn, and the other NCTM standards are the core of this course. A virtual clinical experience from schools using ''best practices'' is required.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7604, and MEE 7603
MEE 7638
Integrated Methods for Teaching Elementary Science
3 credits
The scope and sequence of the science curriculum for elementary students are emphasized via planning integrated lessons and units of instruction and laboratory methods. The integration of the lessons/units will focus on integrating the various science disciplines and on integrating the sciences with other major content areas. A virtual clinical experience from schools using ''best practices'' is required.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7604 and MEE 7603
MEE 7996
Practicum I
1 credit
Practicum I is a structured, field-based, semester-long exploratory clinical course that requires at least 60 hours of supervised classroom experience in an approved setting. Fieldwork is monitored by Wilmington University Practicum advisors and mentor teachers. Placement priority is given to settings that serve culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse student populations. Fieldwork is supported by 30 hours of Practicum seminar sessions. Seminars are conducted at the University sites by faculty of the College of Education. Practicum I introduces the teacher candidate to essential content and pedagogical knowledge related to the components of professional practice, Charlotte Danielson’s Enhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching and DPAS II (Delaware Performance Appraisal System II). Practicum I provides the teacher candidate with opportunities to observe, describe, interpret, and understand all aspects of professional practice and to reflect on the personal and professional attributes required for success in teaching. Candidates in Practicum I focus on the development and characteristics of learners, individual learning differences, dispositions expected of professionals within the education field, learning environments and social interaction. Candidates should take the appropriate Praxis II exam and select Wilmington University as a score recipient. Passing scores are a prerequisite for entry into Practicum II. ETS Vouchers may be purchased at the Wilmington University bookstore or directly through the ETS website.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102. A Federal and Delaware CBC (Criminal Background Check) Report sent/delivered to the Office of Clinical Studies in its original sealed envelope. A new TB/PPD and a completed CPR (Child Protection Registry Form) uploaded into Taskstream. A completed Practicum Fieldwork application in Taskstream by the deadlines of February 1 for placement in Fall and August 1 for placement in Spring. Program Chair approval is required for course registration.
MEE 7997
Practicum II
1 credit
Practicum II is a structured, field-based, semester-long exploratory clinical course that requires at least 60 hours of supervised classroom experience in an approved setting. Fieldwork is monitored by Wilmington University Practicum advisors and mentor teachers. Placement priority is given to settings that serve culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse student populations. Fieldwork is supported by 30 hours of Practicum seminar sessions. Practicum II requires the teacher candidate to implement, analyze and reflect on all aspects of professional practice in direct relation to current research, current professional standards and the Delaware Performance Appraisal System II. Candidates will learn to explore decision-making processes through the application of knowledge and skills gained in the prerequisite courses. Candidates are provided opportunities to reflect on their performance in teaching content lessons to K-12 students with disabilities. Candidates will plan, prepare and teach two lessons within an approved classroom setting, as well as working with individual students. Candidates must take the appropriate Praxis II Content Knowledge Examination by the end of the semester in which they are enrolled in Practicum II and designate Wilmington University as a score recipient. Praxis II must be passed prior to Student Teaching/Teaching Internship as a condition of entry into Student Teaching/Teaching Internship.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7996 On file with the Office of Clinical Studies, A Federal and Delaware CBC (Criminal Background Check) Report, and a TB/PPD report. Submitted into Taskstream a new completed CPR (Child Protection Registry Form). A completed Practicum Fieldwork application in Taskstream by the deadlines of February 1 for placement in Fall and August 1 for placement in Spring.
MEE 7998
Practicum III
1 credit
Practicum III is a structured, field-based, semester-long exploratory clinical course that requires at least 60 hours of supervised classroom experience in an approved setting. Fieldwork is monitored by Wilmington University Practicum advisors and mentor teachers. Placement priority is given to settings that serve culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse student populations. MSE Practicum III placements are in inclusive learning environments serving students with identified / diagnosed learning needs. Fieldwork is supported by 30 hours of Practicum seminar sessions. Practicum III is an extension of Practicum II in which the teacher candidate refines and enhances the implementation, analysis and reflection on all aspects of professional practice in direct relation to current research, current professional standards and the Delaware Performance Appraisal System II. Candidates enhance instructional strategies, learning activities, classroom management skills and lesson planning through the application of knowledge and skills gained in the prerequisite courses. Candidates are provided opportunities to reflect on their performance in teaching content lessons to K-12 students with disabilities. Candidates will plan, prepare and teach two lessons from full units within an approved classroom setting, as well as working with individual students.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7996 and MEE 7997. On file with the Office of Clinical Studies; A Federal and Delaware CBC (Criminal Background Check) Report, and a TB/PPD report. Submitted into Taskstream a new completed CPR (Child Protection Registry Form). A completed Practicum Fieldwork application in Taskstream by the deadlines of February 1 for placement in Fall and August 1 for placement in Spring.
MEE 8801
Student Teaching/Internship
9 credits
This supervised field experience requires at least 80 full student teaching days. Areas of concentration are Elementary Education. Teacher candidates are placed with individual cooperating teachers or with teams of cooperating teachers in approved clinical settings, grades K-6. Teacher Candidates are monitored and supported by Wilmington University supervisors. Placement priority is given to settings that serve culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse student populations. A minimum of 15 clock hours is scheduled by the Wilmington University supervisors to address professional issues related to the clinical semester and to provide support and assistance with the completion of the required professional portfolio. Student Teaching is graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
Note: Once candidates pay for the course, they will need to purchase an ETS voucher from the Bookstore to be used at ETS.org to activate a PPAT account. Successful completion of the PPAT is required for degree completion and conferral. College of Education target score for the PPAT is 43 points. Additional details about the PPAT will be explained during the mandatory student teaching orientation.
Prerequisite(s): A new Federal and Delaware CBC (Criminal Background Check) Report sent/delivered to the Office of Clinical Studies in its original sealed envelope. A new TB/PPD, Health Authorization Form and completed CPR (Child Protection Registry Form) uploaded into Taskstream. A completed Student Teaching Fieldwork application in Taskstream by the deadlines of February 1 for placement in Fall and August 1 for placement in Spring. Chair approval is required for course registration.
MEE 8805
Performance Assessment
3 credits
This course provides candidates with essential knowledge and skills related to appropriate assessment strategies and helps candidates understand how to equitably and effectively assess student learning. Candidates learn how to make data-driven decisions that align with both curricular goals and student instructional needs, and to use data to reflect on the effectiveness and quality of their own teaching. Candidates learn how to use data to help solve instructional problems such as closing the learning/achievement gaps that are indigenous to most classrooms. The course aligns with the requirements of Task 2 in PPAT and with elements of PPAT Tasks 3 and 4. For candidates student teaching in fall 2016 or later, this course must be taken concurrently with Practicum II.
Prerequisite(s): MED 6102, MEE 7604