In this course students will investigate and study the topic of child development in art and education. Students will explore a range of perspectives on developmental theories; the creation, and understanding of children’s art and meaning making; and approaches to teaching art to children in a Birth-12 setting. Resources from the areas of art, psychology, sociology and art education will be investigated. Projects will include the development of a case study, relevant readings, research and studio activities, and collaborative research. Students will be expected to complete weekly reading, writing assignments, conduct research and field experience, and to participate in weekly discussions. This course has a field experience component of 20 hours.

The student teaching practicum is designed to provide the student teacher with in depth pedagogical experiences, real world challenges, and rich learning opportunities. Two student teaching placements are arranged for each student for the duration of 6-7 weeks each. Full-time involvement at the school site is required. The Student Teacher will be under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers and college supervisors. This experience includes observation, full-responsibility planning and teaching, and involvement in the culture of the school setting. Students are assigned a cooperating teacher and a college supervisor for each setting. A Student Teaching Handbook is provided. Students are required to meet state and national standards when teaching. Unit and work sample preparation, instruction and assessment are required. Online technology is utilized in addition to lectures, video and other forms of media.