Major: Teacher Training at Primary School Level (İlköğretim Öğretmenliği)
Program Overview: This program prepares future educators to teach at the primary school level (grades 1-5), focusing on child development, pedagogy, and subject-specific teaching methods. Designed to meet Turkey’s educational standards, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical classroom experience to develop skilled, compassionate, and effective teachers.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand child development and learning theories.
- Develop skills in classroom management and teaching strategies.
- Learn subject-specific teaching methods (e.g., math, science, language arts).
- Gain expertise in educational technology and digital tools.
- Explore inclusive education and special needs support.
- Apply ethical and professional standards in teaching.
Core Courses:
Introduction to Education and Teaching
- Overview of educational theories, teaching principles, and the role of primary school teachers.
Child Development and Psychology
- Physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development of children aged 6-11.
Classroom Management
- Techniques for creating a positive, organized, and engaging learning environment.
Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
- Effective teaching strategies, lesson planning, and assessment techniques.
Subject-Specific Teaching (Math, Science, Language Arts, Social Studies)
- Methods for teaching core subjects at the primary level.
Educational Technology
- Use of digital tools, interactive whiteboards, and educational software in teaching.
Inclusive Education and Special Needs
- Strategies for supporting diverse learners, including children with special needs.
Turkish Language and Literature Teaching
- Focus on teaching Turkish language skills, reading, and writing.
Practicum in Primary Education
- Hands-on teaching experience through supervised internships in primary schools.
Capstone Project
- Comprehensive project to design and implement a teaching unit or educational intervention.
Assessment Methods:
- Lesson plans and teaching demonstrations
- Classroom management simulations
- Subject-specific teaching projects
- Educational technology integration tasks
- Practicum evaluations and capstone project presentations
Recommended Textbooks:
- Eğitim Bilimine Giriş (Introduction to Educational Sciences) by Ömer Demirel
- Çocuk Gelişimi (Child Development) by Çiğdem Kağıtçıbaşı
- Sınıf Yönetimi (Classroom Management) by Forlin ve Lian
- Öğretim İlke ve Yöntemleri (Teaching Principles and Methods) by Kempa ve Ayas
- İlköğretimde Matematik Öğretimi (Teaching Mathematics in Primary Education) by Sinan Olkun ve Aynur Özen
- İlköğretimde Fen Bilgisi Öğretimi (Teaching Science in Primary Education) by Fitnat Köseoğlu ve Şendil Can
Prerequisites: High school diploma. Suitable for students passionate about teaching and working with children.
Program Duration: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, including coursework and teaching practicums.
Certification: Graduates earn a degree in Primary School Teaching and can obtain a teaching license from the Millî Eğitim Bakanlığı (MEB) to work in public and private schools in Turkey.
Career Paths:
- Primary School Teacher (public or private schools)
- Subject Specialist Teacher (e.g., math, science, language arts)
- Educational Coordinator (curriculum development, teacher training)
- Special Education Teacher (supporting children with special needs)
- Educational Consultant (advising schools or educational organizations)
Why This Major? Primary school teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of children and society. This program prepares you to make a meaningful impact in education, with a strong focus on Turkey’s educational needs and standards. With a growing demand for qualified teachers, graduates will have excellent career opportunities in schools across Turkey. The program also emphasizes practical experience, ensuring you are classroom-ready upon graduation.
