EDUC 390 - Teaching and Learning in Urban Schools

This course builds on prior learning in Educational Studies to deepen understanding of both the challenge and potential of teaching in urban schools. Focal topics include exploration of “best practices” for teaching children and youth in poverty, special needs students, and English Language Learners, including the impact of cultural, economic, and family structures on their school experience. We will consider the evaluation, placement, appropriate accommodations, and methods of instruction and assessment for diverse urban students possessing a broad range of academic interests and aptitudes and varied forms of exceptionality. The course is grounded in a field experience (30 hour minimum) engaging students in learning from and contributing to a local urban classroom at the grade level/subject matter area of their choice. The course culminates in the design of a curricular unit that reflects instruction aimed at higher order cognition and holistic child development. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Fall semester. (4 Credits)