Department website: https://www.atu.edu/tel

Welcome to the Educator Development and Exploration program – the perfect starting point for those looking to explore the rewarding field of teaching.

Whether you're considering a career in education or looking to gain a deeper understanding before becoming a substitute teacher or paraprofessional, this program provides you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed.

Through engaging courses and hands-on learning experiences, you’ll gain valuable insights into the teaching profession, while earning credits that count toward your Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

Start your educational journey with us and prepare to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, both now and in the future.

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
EDFD 6503	Classroom Behavioral Management	3
MAMS 5333	Teaching Literacy in the Content Areas	3
MTLL 6123	Instructional Leadership for the Master Teacher	3
5000 or 6000-level Elective		3
Total Hours		12

The Educator Development and Exploration program is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in education, preparing you to enter the field with confidence and clarity. On completion of the program, you will be able to:

1. Understand Key Educational Theories and Practices: Develop a comprehensive understanding of foundational teaching principles, learning theories, and instructional strategies that form the basis of effective teaching and student engagement.

2. Apply Classroom Management Techniques: Learn and practice effective classroom management strategies to create a positive and well-organized learning environment for all students.

3. Communicate Effectively in Educational Settings: Enhance your communication skills to effectively interact with students, parents, and colleagues, ensuring clear, empathetic, and professional exchanges in all aspects of your educational role.

4. Assess and Support Student Learning: Gain knowledge in formative, interim, and summative assessment techniques to monitor student progress, to provide meaningful feedback, and to support the diverse learning needs of students.

5. Understand the Role of a Substitute Teacher or Paraprofessional: Develop practical skills and knowledge to serve effectively in the roles of substitute teacher and paraprofessional, understanding the responsibilities, expectations, and impact these positions have on student learning and classroom dynamics.

6. Explore Career Pathways in Education: Identify and evaluate different career pathways within the education field, preparing for a smooth transition into a full-time teaching role or further studies towards the Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

7. Cultivate Reflective Practice: Develop the ability to reflect on your own teaching experiences and challenges, fostering continuous improvement and growth as an educator.

By the end of the program, you will have a deeper understanding of the teaching profession, valuable skills for working in educational environments, and a strong foundation for pursuing further studies in education.

For program assessment visit: https://www.atu.edu/assessment/program_assessment.php