Heritage University

Preparing teacher candidates to work effectively with the rich diversity found in today’s classrooms is very much a part of the conceptual framework of the teacher preparation program at Heritage University (see attached conceptual framework). Further evidence can be found in our matrix indicating the knowledge and skill requirements for residency certification and the courses in which each requirement is demonstrated and assessed. Please note in particular items “m” and “n”.  The matrix demonstrates that the concepts are taught, practiced, and assessed at multiple points across the program.

Descriptions of the courses identified in the matrix provide evidence of the breadth and depth of the diversity issues addressed in the program. The core foundation course that addresses diversity is Ed 344 Diversity Issues in the Schools. Other courses in the diversity strand build on that foundation and provide more depth and focused experiences. In addition, general and content specific methods courses require students to plan and implement strategies for facilitating learning for all students. Descriptions of the courses in the diversity strand required of all candidates in  the Heritage University undergraduate programs in elementary, middle school, and high school education are found below.

Ed 344 Diversity Issues in the Schools                                            2 sem credits

An overview of the diversity of children and families with whom teachers work. Addresses diversity in culture, language, socioeconomic status, race, and gender; issues of equity, law, and professional ethics. Introduces and models strategies including anti-bias education, cultural pluralism, multiple intelligences, inclusion, and integration of linguistic differences.

Ed 310 Parent and Community Involvement                                    2 sem credits

Addresses different avenues for communicating, interacting, and teaming with parents and the community. Includes conferencing, parent/community involvement in the classroom and at home, use of media, and working with populations with diverse cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and languages. Field experience required.

Ed 366 Special Needs Students in the Regular Classroom 2 sem credits

Investigates the theories and methodologies for working with special needs students. Special emphasis on the exceptional child in the regular classroom. Field experience required.

BLE 409 English as a Second Language in the Content Areas      2 sem credits

Introductory course in delivering a quality program in content area instruction to second language learners. Emphasizes rationale for adapting materials, designing a learning environment, including literature and materials of diverse cultures, and providing ESL strategies for various proficiency levels.

In the graduate Master in Teaching (M.I.T.) program at Heritage the same conceptual framework applies. The core foundation course emphasizing diversity issues in the M.I.T. program is Ed 511 Multicultural Education. Other methods courses, particularly those related to language arts, address differentiated instruction and methods of meeting the needs of students in a diverse classroom.

Ed 511 Multicultural Education                                                        2 sem credits

Considers the multicultural aspects of American society, including cooperative pluralism and diversity and their significance in terms of children, parents, and educators in the school community. Concepts and issues addressed include race, culture, prejudice, equity, marginalization, assimilation, pluralism, and interdependence, and changing demographics. Focus is on developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to effect positive multicultural change in the classroom, school, and community.

You are welcome to further explore the place of diversity in the Heritage University Teacher Certification Programs through our website at www.heritage.edu.