MLE - Middle Level Education

This course distinguishes middle level education history and philosophy and advocates relationships between the unique developmental characteristics of young adolescents (10-14 year olds) and young adolescent culture for appropriate interactive classroom experiences and middle level educational best practices. The course advances middle level educators to develop appropriate dispositions, strategies and knowledge for the multifaceted role as facilitator, guide, collaborator, reflective practitioner and young adolescent advocate while exploring young adolescent learning as a personal experience based on their Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, Spiritual developmental characteristics (PIESS) embedded within each learner's gender, cultural, socioeconomics, community, mass media popular culture (PLUS) understanding. Prerequisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course explores appropriate curricula models for young adolescent learners in safe healthy academically challenging classroom environments and advocates cultivating middle level educators as leaders. Students participate in a variety of course experiences advancing learning while developing strategies for teaching in diverse, collaborative, creative, globally connected classrooms while embracing and encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, infusing related fine arts and the production and use of mass media technology. Students develop strategies for evaluation of student achievement and curricular programs through alternative and diverse assessments identifying differentiation, student voice professional, state, local standards and data acquired from students, parents, and community members. Prerequisite(s): MLE 300. 5 quarter hours

Candidates are challenged and empowered to be developmentally responsive middle level educators. Candidates develop current best middle level practices, competencies and instructional strategies. Candidates will advance their knowledge of the unique developmental characteristics and culture of young adolescents (10-14 year olds) and how these characteristics impact middle level education and teaching. The course distinguishes middle level education history, philosophy and practices as a distinct pedagogy from elementary and secondary education. Prerequisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

Teacher candidates explore appropriate curricular models for young adolescent learners. Teacher candidates work individually and collaboratively to develop strategies for teaching and leadership in diverse middle level classrooms. Inquiry, creativity and critical thinking are encouraged through the infusion of fine and applied arts as well as production and use of technology. Teacher candidates learn strategies for differentiated instruction and assessment. Standards-based, content teaching and learning processes are addressed. Teacher candidates create curriculum that is challenging, exploratory, integrative and relevant for their students. Prerequisite(s): MLE 500. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

The purpose of this independent study in Middle Level Education is to provide students with the opportunity to investigate in depth a topic, problem, or relevant issue. The topic should be of relevance to their individual goals and professional aspirations as a middle level educator. Prerequisite(s): none 1-4 semester hours