SCED 452 - Methods of Teaching History and Social Studies in the Secondary School

3 Credits
3 hours per week.

This course stresses: the objectives of history and social studies in secondary schools; the selection of subject-matter; parallel reading; courses of study; the development of social studies from the community point of view; reference books, maps, charts and other auxiliary material; the organization of materials; lesson plans; and measuring results. Specifically, this course is designed to assist the pre-service teacher: (1) in the use of effective verbal, nonverbal and media communications to foster active inquiry, collaboration and supportive interactions in the classroom; and, (2) in the application of effective planning, management and instructional techniques that are based on knowledge of the content area, and on community and curriculum needs. This course serves two integrative functions as it proposes to teach the pre-service teacher: (1) to integrate the competencies and knowledge acquired in major, professional and pedagogical courses so as to create learning experiences that make the central concepts, tools of inquiry and structures of the content area meaningful for all students; and, (2) to create learning experiences that build on the experimental, cultural, racial, gender and socioeconomic diversity of students in order that they might achieve higher levels of learning. Knowledge and procedures required for the successful implementations of State and National Assessment outcomes for social studies are addressed. Requisite: Students enrolled in methods courses are required to participate in practicum experiences in the public schools. To introduce the yearlong internship, and to comply with the 100 consecutive days expectations, candidates will be required to attend seminars during the first and second semester. The interns will receive prerequisite activities designed for a successful completion of the internship.

Prerequisite(s) Completion of all professional education requirements and senior status.