Education Courses

EDUC 139, 239, 339, 439 Special Topics

Credit arr.

EDUC 185 First-year Seminar

4 hours

A variety of seminars for first-year students offered each January term.

EDUC 215 Clinical Experience I in the Schools

4 hours

Student works as an observer-aide under a teacher in a public/private area school. Concentrated instruction in preparation for these duties plus seminars which accompany the experience. Students taking this course in January must complete application materials in the education department by October 1 of the previous semester. Available in the fall to transfer students and late deciders only. First-year students enroll in EDUC 185 (first-year seminar) offered during January term. All other students enroll in EDUC 215.

EDUC 217 Introduction to Music Education

1 hour

An introduction to the music education program at Luther College, music education in elementary and secondary schools and to the profession at large. The course presents a variety of teaching methods and resources used in the K-12 school system. Students will observe in the public schools, hear public school music educators, examine the competencies required for music education licensure, critique current technology, and actively participate in class sessions. Prerequisites: MUS 121, 121L.

EDUC 220 Introduction to Education and the Psychology of Learning

4 hours

This course is an introduction to the field of education and to educational psychology. One of the central concerns of every society, education involves the study of human growth and development, especially in the context of schooling. Students will encounter research into how humans learn, how learning environments are structured, and how underlying social assumptions intersect with learning theories. The course will explore such topics as socialization, teacher/student interaction, social and cognitive learning theories, testing and assessment, and ethics and the school. (HBSSM)

EDUC 221 The Diverse and Exceptional Learner

4 hours

This course introduces students to learner differences as they are related to culture, ethnicity, language, disability, gender, and socioeconomic status. Students will explore how these factors influence individual educational performance, experience, and development in the institution of the school. With a major emphasis on human intergroup relations in a pluralistic society, the course will also introduce students to significant legislation, models of service delivery, and instructional modifications. (HB)

EDUC 222 Instructional Strategies with Computer Applications K-6:

4 hours

Study of behavioral objectives, planning, testing, evaluation, classroom management, instructional techniques, learning theory applications, and instructional media. Course objectives are achieved through significant writing instruction and practice using conventional writing tools and computer applications.

EDUC 223 Children’s Literature

4 hours

The study of children's literature: genre identification, analysis, review, and curriculum integration. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215.

EDUC 227 Music in Elementary School

2 hours

Designed to assist elementary school teachers in presenting music to children; overview of general music program in the elementary school, including content, methods, and materials; instruction in basic music concepts. Prerequisite: EDUC 222.

EDUC 228 Art in Elementary Schools

2 hours

Introduction to theories of creativity, developmental stages in art and methods of teaching visual art to children K-6. Basics in appreciation and use of materials will also be stressed. Students pursuing a K-6 art academic endorsement or a K-12 art education minor should register for ART/EDUC 228 and ART 228L. ART 228L will consist of a 15 hour clinical placement in an area art classroom. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215, or consent of instructor. (Same as ART 228.)

EDUC 229 Physical Education in Elementary School

2 hours

A study of curricular experiences in elementary physical education, including lectures and laboratory experiences with current movement education techniques. Prerequisite: junior or preferably senior standing.

EDUC 240 Home, School, and Community

2 hours

This pre-K to 12 course examines the dynamic relationship between families, school, and the community. Evaluation, legal aspects, and services to preschool students with disabilities including the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be explored. The course offers continued focus on collaborative team efforts and the importance of establishing strong links between home, school, and other service providers so the learning experiences of students from preschool through transition to the adult life are maximized. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215.

EDUC 242 Introduction to Learning Disabilities and Behavioral Issues

4 hours

This K-12 introductory course includes a historical perspective to the field of learning disabilities and behavioral issues, characteristics and etiology, definitions and identification procedures, conceptual orientations, treatment and intervention, impact of the disability throughout the lifespan on the individual and family, and current trends and issues. Required of all students seeking the Instructional Strategies II endorsement. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215.

EDUC 245 Career/Vocational Assessment and Instructional Planning

2 hours

This K-12 course covers the assessment of career/vocational skills and interests, aspects of the Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act (IDEA) which specifically address transition, transition meetings, Individualized Education Programs (IEP), community-based instruction, and the school/community services and service providers who would be involved in student transition. Required of all students seeking the Instructional Strategies II endorsement. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215.

EDUC 252 Introduction to Teaching Methods: Secondary

2 hours

An introduction to the general methods of secondary teaching. Such topics as objectives, planning, testing, evaluation, classroom management, instructional techniques, educational technology, media and the inclusion of special education students in the regular classroom will be considered. Should be taken as close to EDUC 352 as possible. Required for certification in health. Not required of art, physical education, and music majors. Co/prerequisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221.

EDUC 255 Percussion Methods

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching percussion instruments to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency with percussion instruments, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure.

EDUC 260 Brass Methods

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching brass instruments to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency on brass instruments, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure.

EDUC 265 Double Reed Methods

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching double reed instruments to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency on double reed instruments, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure.

EDUC 270 String Methods

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching bowed string instruments (violin, viola, cello and double bass) to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency on string instruments, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure.

EDUC 275 Flute, Clarinet and Saxophone

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching these instruments to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency on these instruments, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure.

EDUC 278 Content Area Reading, Middle School/Secondary

2 hours

Introduction to the teaching of reading in content areas for secondary teachers: procedures used in recognizing content area reading problems, improving reading by developing literacy strategies in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Required for all students seeking secondary school licensure, Wisconsin-bound music education students, and students seeking Health certification. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215.

This course has an additional one-semester hour practicum component. If you are an elementary education major pursuing a Reading endorsement, you will student-teach in a Reading classroom and will not take the practicum component. Other students completing an endorsement that requires this course will need to register for the practicum when they register for student teaching.

EDUC 280 Voice Methods

2 hours

Methods and materials of teaching voice to elementary and secondary students. Includes knowledge of and proficiency with the vocal instrument, proficiency, pedagogy, materials, assessment and grading for individual and small group studio lessons. Required for instrumental music licensure but not required with completion of EDUC 462.

EDUC 285 Directed Study

2, 4 hours

An opportunity to pursue individualized or experiential learning with a faculty member in the January term, at the sophomore level, either within or outside the major.

NOTE: Students may not register for education department courses above the 300 level until they have been admitted to the teacher education program.

EDUC 320 Introduction to Reading

4 hours

This course presents the social, philosophical, and psychological foundations of teaching reading, including language acquisition, in the elementary school. It includes analysis of current reading philosophies including balanced and whole language and phonics approaches to teaching reading. This course may be used to meet the reading requirement for Wisconsin certification. Offered in fall semester for reading endorsements only. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221, 222.

EDUC 323 Teaching Methods for English Language Learners

4 hours

Basic introduction to historical and contemporary theories and methods of English as a second language instruction with an emphasis on methodologies for teaching reading, writing, listening and pronunciation skills within the context of content areas grounded in academic and social/cultural language goals.

EDUC 324 Assessment for English Language Learners

2 hours

This K-12 course is an introduction to assessment for English language learners including formal and informal tools, interpretation of assessment data, use of data to inform instruction, and the fundamental technical aspects of assessment.

NOTE: EDUC 325, 326, 327, 328, and EDUC 329 must be taken within one year prior to student teaching.

EDUC 325 Elementary Mathematics Methods

2 hours

This course in an introduction to the pedagogy and curriculum of a NCTM standards-based mathematics program in the elementary school. This course includes the planning, teaching, and evaluation of mathematics lessons within the context of a mathematics unit. Pre-requisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221, 222. Co-requisites: MATH 123, EDUC 326.

EDUC 326 Elementary Language Arts Methods

2 hours

This course is an introduction to curriculum and pedagogy of a language arts program based on standards established by the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English, the six components of the language arts, and current learning theories that support teaching language arts in the elementary classroom. This course includes the planning, teaching, and evaluation of language arts using a comprehensive approach that examines language acquisition and development and integrates literature, writing, grammar, spelling, and handwriting. Prerequisites: EDUC 185 /215, 220, 221, 222. Co-requisite: EDUC 325.

EDUC 327 Elementary/Middle School Junior Block Clinical Placement—Methods Practicum

2 hours

As a part of the elementary education methods course sequence the student observes and teaches small and large groups of students in an elementary classroom. During the practicum the student develops and teaches a unit to document the planning, teaching, assessment and reflection protocol. Prerequisites: EDUC 325, 326 (or two of the following: EDUC 325, 326, 328, 329).

EDUC 328 Elementary Social Studies Methods

2 hours

This course is an introduction to curriculum and pedagogy for social studies instruction based on the National Council of Social Studies Standards. Ten thematic strands frame the instructional planning for elementary and middle level curriculum. Students develop competencies in specific social studies related skills and become aware of current directions and research in elementary social studies including instructional technology. This course is designed to assist pre-service teachers in developing appropriate tools for teaching social studies using an interdisciplinary approach. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221, 222. Co-requisite: EDUC 329.

EDUC 329 Elementary Science Methods

2 hours

This course is an introduction to the curriculum and pedagogy of a standards-based science program in the elementary school. This course includes hands-on opportunities with the activities that support the inquiry of science as practiced in the elementary school classroom. Pre-requisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221, 222. Co-requisite: EDUC 328.

EDUC 330 Introduction to Early Childhood Education

4 hours

This course is an introduction to early childhood education: the history of the field; educational philosophies for the pre-kindergarten/kindergarten learner; and developmentally appropriate curriculum in language arts, sciences, social sciences, and mathematics. Also included are assessment, and parent involvement programs. Recommended for all elementary education majors and required for all students for certification in kindergarten and early childhood education. Prerequisite: EDUC 222.

EDUC 331 Early Childhood Education II

2 hours

A review of the current research on curricular models, materials, and methodology in early childhood education. Particular attention given to research translation and implementation for working with infants and toddlers. Prerequisite: EDUC 330.

EDUC 332 The Middle School Learner

4 hours

Focuses on the growth and development of the middle school aged student, specifically addressing emotional, physical, social, and cognitive developmental characteristics. A particular emphasis placed on how these factors relate to success in the school setting and how teachers accommodate the learning characteristics of the middle school student. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221.

EDUC 333 Middle School Methods

4 hours

This course explores the cognitive and social development of early adolescents. The unique organization structures of middle schools are examined. Methods of teaching designed to meet the diverse needs of middle school students are emphasized. Includes a required practicum in the schools. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221.

EDUC 340 Methods of Second Language Acquisition

2 hours

Introduction and overview of second langugage acquisition theories, protocols for second language teaching, instructional strategies and program formats in the K-12 ESL classroom. Prerequisite: Educ 185 or 215.

EDUC 344 Methods and Strategies for Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities and Behavioral Issues

4 hours

This course provides an exploration of the various methods, techniques, and materials that are used in the education of students who have learning disabilities and behavioral issues in a variety of different settings including the general education classroom. Methods and materials for instruction in mathematics, reading, written language, spoken language, social skills, listening skills, organizational skills, and skills to enhance life/career choices will be addressed. Must be taken during the junior year. Required of all students seeking the Instructional Strategies II endorsement. Prerequisites: EDUC 185/215, 220, 221, 242.

EDUC 345 ESL Methods II: Advanced methods/curriculum design for teaching English as a second language, K-12

2 hours

Analysis, evaluation and development of curriculum for teaching English language learners with a focus on authentic pedagogy and application of the Sheltered Instructional Observational Protocol (SIOP)in developing lessons in K-12 ESL programs. Prerequisite: Educ 323.

EDUC 346 Classroom Management and Collaboration

4 hours

A K-12 course in individual behavior management, behavioral change strategies and classroom management for working with elementary and secondary students in special education. Methods and strategies for consulting and collaborating with parents, paraprofessionals, classroom teachers, support service personnel, and other individuals involved in the education program will be covered. Required for all students desiring approval for the Instructional Strategist II endorsement. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215.

EDUC 347 Assessment in Special and Remedial Education

4 hours

This K-12 course is an introduction to the assessment process including formal and informal tools, special education legal guidelines concerning assessment, interpretation of assessment data, the use of assessment data in instructional planning, and the basic technical aspects of assessment. There is significant emphasis on literacy skill evaluation through both formal and informal measures. This course is required of all students seeking the Instructional Strategist II: behavior disorders/ learning disabilities endorsement and/or the reading endorsement. Prerequisites: EDUC 220, 221, and junior standing.

EDUC 352 Advanced Teaching Methods: Secondary

2 or 4 hours

Advanced study of secondary teaching methods for students seeking licensure in art, English, mathematics, science, and social science. Study of special methods used to teach the individual's major subject area. Teaching methods and professional participation in one's academic discipline will be covered, as well as inclusion of special education students in a regular classroom and applications of technology. Students spend a minimum of forty contact hours in cooperating school classrooms in addition to on-campus meetings. Must be taken prior to professional semester. Required for certification in art, English, foreign language, mathematics, science, and social sciences. Not required of health, physical education and music majors. The 2-credit option is only for secondary students with two majors and two corresponding licensure areas. Art and science are offered in the fall semester, English, mathematics and social studies are offered in the spring semester. Prerequisites: EDUC 252.

EDUC 353 Advanced Methods—World Languages K–12

4 hours

Advanced study of secondary teaching methods for students seeking licensure in foreign languages. Teaching methods and professional participation in the language classroom will be covered, as well as inclusion of special education students in a regular classroom and applications of technology. World language methods prepares teachers for language instruction in kindergarten through high-school classrooms. World language methods prepares teachers for language instruction in kindergarten through high-school classrooms. Students spend forty contact hours in cooperating-school elementary and secondary classrooms, in addition to on-campus class meetings. Must be taken prior to professional semester. Offered in the fall semester. Prerequisite: admission into teacher education program.

EDUC 360 Foundations of Music Education

4 hours

Designed to develop a philosophy of music education, concepts of program development and current approaches to music teaching. Role of technology, rehearsal and lesson planning, assessment, and curriculum will be emphasized. Required for music education licensure. Prerequisites: EDUC 217, 220, acceptance into teacher education program or consent of instructor.

EDUC 361 Clinical Experiences in Music Education

4 hours

100 hour clinical practicum that follows Education 360. Student works under the direction of a cooperating teacher and plans, teaches, rehearses and reflects. Course objectives are formulated from the core competencies of the teacher education program and subject matter competencies in music education. Prerequisites: EDUC 217, 220, 360, admission to the teacher education program, MUS 250 (MUS 260, 265, 270, 275, 285 for instrumentalists) or consent of instructor.

EDUC 365 Methods, Elementary and Secondary Physical Education

2 hours

Lesson planning, media, educational technology, methods, and classroom management for teaching elementary and secondary physical education classes. Practicum in working with college skills classes. Consent of instructor required prior to registration. Prerequisite: junior standing.

EDUC 370 Practicum in International Education

2 hours

Students will work as observer-aides in K-12 schools in international settings under the direction of Luther College faculty. Students will attend seminars, and participate in cultural and environmental activities which link to competencies for teacher preparation. This course focuses upon comparative education, professional development, cross-cultural skill development and personal growth through study abroad. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215, 220, or consent of instructor. Offered in the summer only.

EDUC 376 Readers at Risk

2 hours

This course will explore the developmental nature of the exceptional reader, including underachieving and gifted students. It examines current research on learner characteristics, instructional approaches and principles of effective reading and instruction. Prerequisite: EDUC 320.

EDUC 378 Content Area Reading, Elementary/Middle School

2 hours

Introduction to the teaching of reading in content areas for elementary teachers: procedures used in recognizing content area reading problems; improving content area reading by developing literacy strategies in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Required for elementary reading endorsement. Prerequisite: EDUC 185/215 or EDUC 217.

EDUC 395 Independent Study

1, 2, or 4 hours

EDUC 460 Middle and High School Vocal Methods

2 hours

Students learn physiology and pedagogy of the high school adolescent voice. Included in the curricula are planning, assessment, literature, music literacy, and grading. Students teach private and in-class voice lessons to secondary students. Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and EDUC 361.

EDUC 462 General Music Education: Elementary and Middle School

4 hours

Survey of the general music program in the elementary and middle school. Study of the music student, content, materials, and methods of instruction. Includes Orff and Kodaly approaches, the young adolescent, the changing voice, technology, and classroom management. Includes a clinical component in area schools. Required of all vocal music education minors (and needed by instrumental education minors seeking licensure in neighboring states). Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and EDUC 361.

EDUC 464 Middle and High School Band Methods

4 hours

A study of the organization, direction and management of the band program in the pubic schools. The course includes the curricula, pedagogy and assessment of marching, jazz and concert bands. It also covers the organization and business management of the band program and instrument repair/maintenance. Laboratory hours include participation with area school bands. Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and EDUC 361.

EDUC 466 Middle and High School Choral Methods

4 hours

Students learn choral literature, pedagogy, rehearsal techniques, rehearsal planning, music literacy strategies, assessment and grading, rehearsal management and administration. Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and EDUC 361.

EDUC 468 Middle and High School Orchestra Methods

4 hours

A study of the organization, direction and management of the orchestra program in public schools. The course includes the curricula, pedagogy and assessment of the school string program, instrument repair/maintenance, arranging for school orchestra, teaching string instruments, program organization, direction and business management of the orchestra program. Laboratory hours include participation with area school orchestras. Prerequisite: admission to the teacher education program and EDUC 361.

EDUC 486 Teaching Practicum

3 or 12 hours

Observation and teaching in area schools. Student teaching experiences are offered in each of the following areas: elementary education (includes student teaching in the endorsement areas), secondary education, and K-12 student teaching in art, music, and physical education. Those who do 18 weeks of EDUC 486 to meet the Wisconsin certification requirements will register for 3 additional credits during January term.

EDUC 490 Senior Project

1 hour

EDUC 493 Senior Honors Project

4 hours

A yearlong independent research project. Applications are completed on the "Honors Program" form available at the registrar's office, requiring the signatures of a faculty supervisor, the department head, the honors program director, and the registrar. Interdisciplinary projects require the signatures of two faculty supervisors. The project must be completed by the due date for senior projects. The completed project is evaluated by a review committee consisting of the faculty supervisor, another faculty member from the major department, and a faculty member from outside the major department. All projects must be presented publicly. Only projects awarded an "A-" or "A" qualify for "department honors" designation. The honors project fulfills the all-college senior project requirement.