This course is designed to study development, application, and implementation of curriculum based upon the theories and research findings studied and discussed in childhood education. This course is also focused on advanced techniques of pedagogical practice, including aesthetic education, assessment, use of technology in childhood education, and the development of interdisciplinary curriculum in democratically modeled classrooms. We will also aim to integrate the social sciences into the social studies curriculum.

(Corequisite: An approved course in the social sciences.)

Syllabus

SOE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK 
Critical Self-Reflection    *     Collaboration    *    Diversity    *     Social Justice

Course Goals 

• Develop a personal philosophy for approaching curriculum development and effective pedagogy in urban elementary classrooms, emphasizing the integration of social sciences into the classroom
• Effectively intersect social studies and literacy by learning to incorporate narratives, storytelling and the performing arts into curriculum and pedagogy
• Increase knowledge and understanding of curriculum development (K-5) in a multicultural, multilingual urban context and to actualize that knowledge by creating effective curriculum and curricular resources.
• Become more proficient in critically analyzing school-based curriculum and the shaping of state-mandated learning standards toward student-centered curricular goals
• Increase consciousness of the critical role of social studies curriculum and pedagogy in sustaining democracy, shaping an equitable society and becoming a peace-filled global community
• Support the creation and acquisition of curriculum tools and resources for successful classroom practice