MAT Elementary Concentration

This course examines child and adolescent development and focuses on developmental stages, learner motivation, student interests, creating a healthy learning climate, language development, and individual differences. (NJPST 1)

A survey of the neurological, sensory, orthopedic, communicative, and social disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, present in children and the impact of these on the psychological and academic development of the child. Students will also examine the effect of the disabilities on cognitive, mental, and social growth, the factors to be considered in assessment and rehabilitative developments, and strategies for professional collaboration to meet students’ needs. (NJPST 2)

An examination of the foundations of teaching and instruction based on the New Jersey Professional Standards for Teachers. The completion and documentation of the 50-hour clinical experience is a course requirement. (NJPST 1-11) 

This introductory course will examine the critical areas of language development, phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, word study, comprehension, and digital literacy.  Students will investigate the ways in which these topics inform early literacy programs and reflect on the philosophical and theoretical perspectives that shape their teaching practice. (NJPST 3, 4, 7)

This course focuses on preparing pre-service teachers to develop, plan, and evaluate math lessons that are developmentally appropriate for learners from early childhood to 6th grade.  Students will learn how to assess student math knowledge and skills based on content outlined in the NJSLS through a student-centered inquiry approach, working with manipulatives, different technologies, and other methods to build mathematical knowledge. (NJPST 4, 7)

This course consists of 175 hours in a fieldwork component and seminar. Students will put theory into practice by strengthening pedagogy through observation and active classroom participation. Clinical practice is supervised and observed by University staff and assigned cooperating teachers. (NJPST 1-11) (Pre-req Fundamentals of Education; 56:300:510 )

This course will examine instructional strategies to support readers and writers across the five pillars of reading – phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension – within a comprehensive literacy framework. A strong emphasis will be on the role of assessment in the teaching and learning process and expose candidates to a variety of reading assessments. Students will also learn about integrating literacy instruction across all content areas , with a special focus on science and social studies.(NJPST 5-8). (Co-req Clinical Practice I)

Bridging skills learned in Introduction to Math, this course will prepare students to strategically plan developmentally and academically appropriate instruction using strategies related to best practices for learners from early childhood to 6th grade, including infusing literacy skills into instruction. Students will delve into mathematics content and the NJSLS, while exploring current research on instructional practices and learn methods to implement instructional practices designed to make math accessible to students showing difficulty or in need of remediation. (NJPST 5-8) (Co-req Clinical Practice I)

This course consists of a full-time, semester-length student teaching experience in a school setting. Students will continue to refine their planning and teaching skills. Clinical practice is supervised and observed by University staff and assigned cooperating teachers.  (NJPST 1-11)

This course explores the role of a teacher and teacher leader both as a collaborator and role model in and outside the classroom. Students will investigate teacher professionalism and the organizational culture of schools with the aim that these understandings will prepare students to take a greater leadership role on issues that affect classroom practice and students’ learning. Students will also finalize their professional teaching portfolio, reflect on clinical experiences, and examine ways to further their students’ success.  (NJPST 9,10,11) (Co-requisite Clinical Practice II – 56:300:521

This course will focus on applying literacy instruction and assessment as a co-requisite with the field placement.  Students will expand their knowledge of the types, characteristics, and applications of commonly used and evolving literacy approaches, measures, and practices. Students will also develop expertise in identifying students’ literacy needs and using that information for planning, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based literacy interventions to address those needs, including those with diverse social, cultural, linguistic, and literacy learning needs. (NJPST 2, 6, 7, 8). (Co-req Clinical Practice II)