Education and Learning, BA

Introduction

The Education and Learning major is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the psychological, social, philosophical, and curricular foundations of education. This major builds a strong foundation for careers working with children and in various educational programs, including classroom teaching. There are two pathways in the BA program: non-licensure which requires completing a capstone research project, and licensure which requires student teaching.

Students interested in licensure will choose from tracks in the major, general education or special education, and complete the required professional courses for selected endorsements. Those choosing general education will complete the requirements for the elementary multiple subjects or secondary single subject endorsements, while those who choose special education: generalist track will complete the requirements for the special education: generalist endorsement. For licensure candidates, student teaching is the capstone experience. Students considering a teaching career should consult with the coordinator of the undergraduate education program no later than mid-fall of their second year.

The Education & Learning major is a good choice for those who want to complete a liberal arts degree as an undergraduate and then secure an Oregon Preliminary Teaching License with an Elementary Multiple Subjects endorsement as part of a master’s program (see our MAT Fifth-Year or Flex/Hybrid program for examples); Other majors at Pacific University provide a good foundation for those pursuing single subject licensure as part of a master’s program (see our MAT Full-Time or Part-Time Hybrid programs for examples).

A minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other languages (TESOL) is also available.

Admissions

Program Length: Approximately 18 months

Program Learning Outcomes

The competencies listed below are integrated into the learning objectives of the Education and Learning, BA curriculum, and serve as the goals for student learning outcomes within the program.

Understands how learners grow and develop through the ability to recognize patterns of learning and development within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.
Uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards.
Works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
Understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) they teach and creates learning experiences that make these aspects of the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of the content.
Connects concepts and uses differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem solving related to authentic local and global issues.
Uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to monitor learner progress, and to guide the teacher’s and learner’s decision making.
Plans instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, cross-disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context.
Uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understandings of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
Uses evidence to continually evaluate their practice, particularly the effects of their choices and actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community), and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.
Seeks appropriate leadership roles and opportunities to take responsibility for student learning, to collaborate with learners, families, colleagues, other school professionals, and community members to ensure learner growth, and to advance the profession.

Licensure Requirements

Students must meet Preliminary License Standards defined by TSPC which include successful completion of: edTPA, content knowledge assessment(s), and student teaching. Students must demonstrate: knowledge of U.S. and Oregon civil rights laws and professional ethics, and knowledge of subject area and curriculum standards.