Faculty: Graduate School of Social Science This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of elementary school teaching, focusing on the development of pedagogical skills, curriculum design, and classroom management. Students will explore key topics such as child development, literacy instruction, mathematics education, and inclusive teaching strategies. The major emphasizes the integration of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for careers as elementary school teachers, educational consultants, and curriculum developers. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand the fundamental principles of elementary education and their role in fostering student learning and development. - Develop skills in designing and implementing effective lesson plans and curricula. - Learn techniques for managing classroom environments and promoting positive student behavior. - Explore the principles of child development and their application in teaching practices. - Understand the impact of inclusive education and differentiated instruction on student success. - Analyze the challenges and opportunities of working in the field of elementary education. - Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address contemporary issues in education. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Elementary Education** - Overview of elementary education, its history, and its significance in the educational system. 2. **Child Development and Learning Theories** - Fundamentals of child development, including cognitive, social, and emotional growth. - Techniques for applying learning theories to teaching practices. 3. **Literacy Instruction** - Principles of literacy instruction, including reading, writing, and language development. - Techniques for promoting literacy skills in elementary students. 4. **Mathematics Education** - Study of mathematics education, including number sense, problem-solving, and critical thinking. - Techniques for teaching mathematical concepts to elementary students. 5. **Classroom Management and Behavior Support** - Fundamentals of classroom management, including creating a positive learning environment and managing student behavior. - Techniques for implementing behavior support strategies. 6. **Inclusive Education and Differentiated Instruction** - Principles of inclusive education, including strategies for supporting diverse learners. - Techniques for differentiating instruction to meet the needs of all students. 7. **Curriculum Design and Assessment** - Study of curriculum design, including aligning instruction with educational standards. - Techniques for assessing student learning and using data to inform instruction. 8. **Emerging Trends in Elementary Education** - Impact of emerging trends, such as technology integration, project-based learning, and social-emotional learning, on elementary education. - Techniques for integrating new trends into teaching practices. **Assessment Methods:** - Teaching practicums and classroom observations to evaluate practical teaching skills. - Written assignments and research papers to assess knowledge of educational theories and practices. - Presentations and reports on lesson plans and curriculum designs. - Participation in group discussions and debates on contemporary issues in elementary education. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher" by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong. - "Teaching Children Science: A Discovery Approach" by Joseph Abruscato and Donald A. DeRosa. - "Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally" by John A. Van de Walle, Karen S. Karp, and Jennifer M. Bay-Williams. **Prerequisites:** Basic knowledge of education, psychology, and child development is recommended. This major is suitable for students in education, child development, and related fields. **Major Duration:** Typically, this major runs for four academic years, with a combination of lectures, teaching practicums, and practical exercises. **Certification:** Upon successful completion, students may receive a degree in Elementary School Teacher Education, depending on the program and institution. **Target Audience:** This major is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in education, child development, and related fields, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their skills in elementary school teaching. This major prepares students and professionals to excel in the field of elementary education, leveraging theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and an understanding of emerging trends to create engaging and effective learning experiences for young students.