COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

SEC – Secondary Education 

SEC 223 – Field Experience (Stage 2): 0 credits

The aim of the field experience program at the University of Valley Forge is to provide education students with a progression of opportunities to apply theory to practice in an authentic educational setting. The purpose of the Stage 2 (sophomore) field experience is to foster observation and reflection; however, students will participate in class activities and, under the supervision of the cooperating teacher, may assist in the everyday events of the classroom. A university supervisor will periodically visit the student at the field experience site to ensure that a productive experience is taking place. Students will maintain a log that documents the hours spent at the field experience.

Prerequisite: EDU 133

SEC 373 – Secondary English Curriculum and Methodologies: 3 credits

This course will explore current practices in the teaching of language arts in secondary schools. Prospective teachers enrolled in this course will learn to plan appropriate learning activities, to assess their students’ progress, and to reflect on their own teaching and learning experiences.

Prerequisite: CMS 233

SEC 466 – Student Teaching: 12 credits

Student teaching is a 15-week capstone semester in which the pre-service teacher integrates the pedagogical content knowledge acquired in the teacher education program in either a middle/junior high or a senior high school. This is a hands-on experience in which the student teacher candidate progresses from assisting the classroom teacher to gradually assuming control of the classroom for the entire day. The student teacher candidate participates fully in the life of the classroom by planning and implementing instruction, managing the classroom environment, assessing student progress, and working with school personnel. Student Teaching must be taken concurrently with SEC 471 Student Teaching Seminar. All academic work must be completed. This course will explore current practices in the teaching of language arts in secondary schools. Prospective teachers enrolled in this course will learn to plan appropriate learning activities, to assess their students’ progress, and to reflect on their own teaching and learning experiences.

Prerequisite: CMS 233

SEC 471 – Student Teaching Seminar: 1 credit

This seminar course will consist of small group interactions to review experiences during student teaching placements. The course will also support students in applying for PDE teaching certification, constructing a cover letter and resume, completing a professional portfolio, navigating websites for job search, writing and implementing a Teacher Work Sample, and reviewing standards of ethical behavior according to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

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