Education Department

Education Department

For more than 150 years, North Central College has educated some of America’s most exceptional teachers. Year after year, our graduates have taken the lead in classrooms, motivating and inspiring young people to reach their full potential.

Today we continue that tradition with our most talented, committed students. State licensure requirements have grown increasingly demanding—and our expectations have risen with them. North Central College aligns its curriculum with Illinois Professional Educator Standards. Partnerships with area school districts pair students with top-quality mentors and offer a wide range of rigorous field experiences in both high-performing and high-need settings.

To succeed as a teacher candidate at North Central, you’ll need uncommon dedication and skill. But if you accept the challenge, we’ll stand by you every step of the way.  North Central faculty are dedicated not only to challenging you, but also to mentoring you—to nurturing your talents while pushing you to surpass your own expectations. We regularly hear from principals that North Central candidates are among the most well-prepared teachers and student teachers on their staffs. Our recent alumni have earned accolades as Illinois Teacher of the Year, Illinois Principal of the Year, Golden Apple Award-winner and many more.

The Education Department is fully accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) (formerly NCATE and TEAC) standards are used to assess the programs offered at North Central College.

Elementary Education, B.A.

The Education Department offers an undergraduate licensure program in  education to prepare elementary, secondary, K-12 art, K-12 foreign language and in conjunction with the Department of Music, K-12 music teachers. It is an experience-oriented teacher education program based on the liberal arts. The faculty of the education department is committed to the serious study of education and the promotion of professional standards to foster innovation in professional preparation. This commitment encompasses social issues such as equity and capacity-based learning, with an emphasis on preparing candidates to teach in diverse school settings. The program is approved for licensure by the Illinois State Board of Education. Teacher education programs differ from other programs at the College in that additional specific criteria must be met in the area of general education, as well as in the area of the major.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Professional Education Courses

Content Preparation Courses

Science

One of the following:

One of the following:

Mathematics

Social Science

One of the following:

Health Education

Notes:

Grades below "C-" in professional education courses, field experiences and content preparation courses are not accepted for licensure.

If a student receives a "no pass" in a field experience, the student must retake the field experience the next time it is scheduled. If a student passes the field experience but not the class, then both must be retaken.

The Department of Education has established the following Progression Points as ways for department faculty to ensure students are undertaking experiences needed to prepare them for the profession of teaching. Each checklist is designed to be met by teacher candidates at important points along their journey to becoming a teacher. Once all experiences of a Progression Point are met, a teacher candidate is ready to move forward in the program.

Progression Point 1: Admission to the Teacher Education Program

Course Requirements:

  • Complete EDUC 101, PSYC 100, EDUC 228, 260, and EDUC 235 with a grade of C- or above
  • Complete EDUC 291 with a grade of P

GPA Requirements: 

For full admission to the Teacher Education Program:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred to the Elementary Education major

For conditional admission to the Teacher Education Program:

Conditional Admission to the Teacher Education Program allows candidates to progress in their plan of study while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure academic success in the Teacher Education Program.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

Evaluation Requirements:

Dispositions:

  • Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 101 instructor
  • Dispositions Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 228 or EDUC 260 instructor
  • Self-Assessment of dispositions at time of application to TEP

Field Experiences:

  • Field Experience Recommendation from EDUC 101
  • Mentor Teacher Recommendation from EDUC 291
  • Supervisor Recommendation from EDUC 291

Note: Teacher candidates must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program (TEP) to take EDUC courses at the 300- or 400-level.

Progression Point 2: Progression to Student Teaching Residency

Course Requirements:

  • Complete of all professional education and content preparation courses for the Elementary Education major with a grade of C- or better with the exception of EDUC 494 and 496, the Student Teaching Residency course package

GPA Requirements:

Full Admission to Student Teaching Residency:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or greater in all courses taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 3.00 or better in all courses taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

For conditional admission to Student Teaching Residency:

Conditional Admission to Student Teaching allows candidates to progress to student teaching while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure success.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50-2.999 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

Recommendation Requirements:

  • Mentor Teacher Recommendations from EDUC 391 and 491
  • Supervisor Recommendations from EDUC 391 and 491
  • Practitioner Interview Recommendation (e.g., teachers and administrators)
  • Receive a recommendation from the Department of Education for Student Teaching Residency

Additional Requirements:

  • Complete the practice edTPA as required for EDUC 460 Elementary Methods-Literacy II and EDUC 401 Elementary Assessment of Learning
  • *Earn a passing Score on the ILTS Elementary content test #305

* Illinois State Board of Education requirement enforced by North Central College

Progression Point 3: Licensure

  • *Pass EDUC 494 Student Teaching Residency Seminar and EDUC 496 Student Teaching Residency with a grade of C- or better
  • *Earn a passing Score on the edTPA teacher performance assessment
  • *Complete all other necessary requirements to earn a bachelor's degree

* Illinois State Board of Education requirement enforced by North Central College

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Secondary Education, B.A.

The Education Department offers an undergraduate licensure program in education to prepare elementary, secondary, K-12 art, K-12 foreign language and in conjunction with the Department of Music, K-12 music teachers. It is an experience-oriented teacher education program based on the liberal arts. The faculty of the education department is committed to the serious study of education and the promotion of professional standards to foster innovation in professional preparation. This commitment encompasses social issues such as equity and capacity-based learning, with an emphasis on preparing candidates to teach in diverse school settings. The program is approved for licensure by the Illinois State Board of Education. Teacher education programs differ from other programs at the College in that additional specific criteria must be met in the area of general education, as well as in the area of the major.

Secondary Education majors are required to complete a second major in their chosen content area in order to obtain a teaching license. The content areas are as follows: Art, Biology, Chemistry, Chinese, English, Environmental Science, French, German, Japanese, Mathematics, Physics, Social Science/History, Spanish, and Integrated Science: Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Requirements for these majors are housed in their respective departments.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

One of the following:

Note:

Grades below "C-" in professional education courses and field experiences and content preparation courses are not accepted for licensure.

If a student receives a "no pass" in a field experience, the student must retake the field experience the next time it is scheduled. If a student passes the field experience but not the class, then both must be retaken.

The Department of Education has established the following Progression Points as ways for department faculty to ensure students are undertaking experiences needed to prepare them for the profession of teaching. Each checklist is designed to be met by teacher candidates at important points along their journey to becoming a teacher. Once all experiences of a Progression Point are met, a teacher candidate is ready to move forward in the program.

Progression Point 1: Admission to the Teacher Education Program

Course Requirements:

  • Complete EDUC 101, PSYC 100 and EDUC 200 with a grade of C- or above
  • Complete EDUC 290 with a grade of P

GPA Requirements: 

For full admission to the Teacher Education Program:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

For conditional admission to the Teacher Education Program:

Conditional Admission to the Teacher Education Program allows candidates to progress in their plan of study while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure academic success in the Teacher Education Program.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.00-2.499 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

Evaluation Requirements:

Dispositions:

  • Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 101 instructor
  • Dispositions Recommendation from full-time faculty member in candidate's content major
  • Self-assessment of dispositions at time of application to TEP

Field Experiences:

  • Field Experience Recommendation from EDUC 101
  • Mentor Teacher Recommendation from EDUC 290
  • Supervisor Recommendation from EDUC 290

Note: Teacher candidates must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program (TEP) to take EDUC courses at the 300- or 400-level.

Progression Point 2: Progression to Student Teaching Residency

Course Requirements:

  • Complete of all professional education courses for the Secondary Education major with a grade of C- or better with the exception of EDUC 494, and 496, the Student Teaching Residency course package
  • Complete all courses for the content area major

GPA Requirements:

For full admission to Student Teaching Residency:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or greater in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 3.00 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major

For conditional admission to Student Teaching Residency:

Conditional Admission to Student Teaching allows candidates to progress to student teaching while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure success.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50-2.999 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.00-2.499 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

Recommendation Requirements:

  • Mentor Teacher Recommendations from EDUC 390 and 490
  • Supervisor Recommendations from EDUC 390 and 490
  • Practitioner Interview Recommendation, if assigned
  • Receive a recommendation from the Department of Education for Student Teaching Residency

Additional Requirements:

  • Complete the practice edTPA as required for EDUC 4XX HS/MS Methods:<Content Area> and EDUC 403 HS/MS Assessment of Learning
  • *Earn a passing Score on the appropriate ILTS content test
    (ENGL: 207; MATH: 208; BIOL: 239; CHEM: 240; ENVI SCI: 242; PHYSICS: 243; HIST: 246; CHIN: 251; FREN: 252, GERM: 253; JAPN: 256; SPAN 260; ART: 214).

Progression Point 3: Licensure

  • *Pass EDUC 494 Student Teaching Residency Seminar, and EDUC 496 Student Teaching Residency with a grade of C- or better
  • *Earn a passing Score on the edTPA teacher performance assessment
  • *Complete all other necessary requirements to earn a bachelor's degree

* Illinois State Board of Education requirement enforced by North Central College

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Special Education, B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with a major Special Education introduces students to the history of disability and Special Education along with the policies and laws that led to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students explore the legal requirements that are fundamental to the protocols and provisions implemented through the IEP and the discipline. Within the context of how neurology impacts disability and learning, students examine the peer-reviewed evidence-based practices that inform how we manage behavior and implement academic protocols to teach and assess exceptional diverse learners. With a curriculum that is constructed through the lens of Critical Disability Theory, candidates apply conscious cultural responsiveness to remove learning and societal barriers that diverse populations of exceptional learners and their families confront. Accordingly, collaboration with families and all stakeholders is a focus to improve learner-centered outcomes through their entire IDEA-mandated academic life and beyond matriculation through transition to postsecondary outcomes.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Education Core and Content Preparation Courses

One of the following:

Special Education Courses

Special Education Field Experiences

Education Residency

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

English Language Learner Minor

Teacher candidates earning an initial teaching license at North Central College may elect to add a minor in English Language Learning leading to an endorsement by taking an additional six courses. Adding the English as a Second Language endorsement allows candidates to teach in ESL programs in grades Kindergarten through 12. Electing to add the ELL minor may require a student to take more than 128 credit hours at NCC.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Learning Behavior Specialist I Endorsement

Teacher candidates earning an initial teaching license at North Central College may elect to add a Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement by taking an additional 3 courses. Adding the endorsement allows candidates to teach in special education programs at the developmental level of their initial license. Electing to add the LBS1 endorsement may require a student to take more than 128 credit hours at NCC.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Education Studies, Elementary, B.A.

The Education Department provides a path to a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Education Studies for students who seek to work in education settings that do not require Illinois State Board   of Education licensure. In many cases, students will seek the B.A. in Education Studies when indicators are that licensure is no longer attainable or desirable. Others may seek the B.A. as a career path to working with children and young adults in education-related careers.

Like the B.A. in Education, the B.A. in Education Studies is an experience-oriented program based on the liberal arts. The faculty of the education department is committed to the serious study of education and the promotion of professional standards to foster innovation in professional preparation. This commitment encompasses social issues such as equity and capacity-based learning.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Professional Education Courses

Core Courses

Eight credits from one of the following:

Content Preparation Courses

Science

One of the following:

One of the following:

Mathematics

Social Science

One of the following:

Health Education

The Department of Education has established the following Progression Points as ways for department faculty to ensure students are undertaking experiences needed to prepare them for the profession of teaching. Each checklist is designed to be met by teacher candidates at important points along their journey to becoming a teacher. Once all experiences of a Progression Point are met, a teacher candidate is ready to move forward in the program.

Progression Point 1: Admission to the Teacher Education Program

Course Requirements:

  • Complete EDUC 101, PSYC 100, EDUC 228, 260, and EDUC 235 with a grade of C- or above
  • Complete EDUC 291 with a grade of P

GPA Requirements: 

For full admission to the Teacher Education Program:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred to the Elementary Education major

For conditional admission to the Teacher Education Program:

Conditional Admission to the Teacher Education Program allows candidates to progress in their plan of study while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure academic success in the Teacher Education Program.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

Evaluation Requirements:

Dispositions:

  • Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 101 instructor
  • Dispositions Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 228 and EDUC 260 instructor
  • Self-Assessment of dispositions at time of application to TEP

Field Experiences:

  • Field Experience Recommendation from EDUC 101
  • Mentor Teacher Recommendation from EDUC 291
  • Supervisor Recommendation from EDUC 291

Note: Teacher candidates must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program (TEP) to take EDUC courses at the 300- or 400-level.

Progression Point 2: Progression to Student Teaching Residency

Course Requirements:

  • Complete of all professional education courses for the Elementary Education major with a grade of C- or better with the exception of EDUC 494 and 496, the Student Teaching Residency course package

GPA Requirements:

Full Admission to Student Teaching Residency:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or greater in all courses taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 3.00 or better in all courses taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

For conditional admission to Student Teaching Residency:

Conditional Admission to Student Teaching allows candidates to progress to student teaching while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure success.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50-2.999 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Elementary Education major

Recommendation Requirements:

  • Mentor Teacher Recommendations from EDUC 391 and 491
  • Supervisor Recommendations from EDUC 391 and 491
  • Practitioner Interview Recommendation (e.g., teachers and administrators)
  • Receive a recommendation from the Department of Education for Student Teaching Residency

Additional Requirements:

  • Complete the practice edTPA as required for EDUC 460 Elementary Methods-Literacy II and EDUC 401 Elementary Assessment of Learning
  • *Earn a passing Score on the ILTS Elementary content test #305

Progression Point 3: Licensure

  • *Pass EDUC 494 Student Teaching Residency Seminar and EDUC 496 Student Teaching Residency with a grade of C- or better
  • *Earn a passing Score on the edTPA teacher performance assessment
  • *Complete all other necessary requirements to earn a bachelor's degree

* Illinois State Board of Education requirement enforced by North Central College

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Education Studies, Secondary, B.A.

The Education Department provides a path to a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Education Studies for students who seek to work in education settings that do not require Illinois State Board of Education licensure. In many cases, students will seek the B.A. in Education Studies when indicators are that licensure is no longer attainable or desirable. Others may seek the B.A. as a career path to working with children and young adults in education-related careers.

Like the B.A. in Education, the B.A. in Education Studies is an experience-oriented program based on the liberal arts. The faculty of the education department is committed to the serious study of education and the promotion of professional standards to foster innovation in professional preparation. This commitment encompasses social issues such as equity and capacity-based learning.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Education.

Core Courses

One of the following:

Additional Requirements

Eight credits from one of the following:

The Department of Education has established the following Progression Points as ways for department faculty to ensure students are undertaking experiences needed to prepare them for the profession of teaching. Each checklist is designed to be met by teacher candidates at important points along their journey to becoming a teacher. Once all experiences of a Progression Point are met, a teacher candidate is ready to move forward in the program.

Progression Point 1: Admission to the Teacher Education Program

Course Requirements:

  • Complete EDUC 101, PSYC 100 and EDUC 200 with a grade of C- or above
  • Complete EDUC 290 with a grade of P

GPA Requirements: 

For full admission to the Teacher Education Program:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.75 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

For conditional admission to the Teacher Education Program:

Conditional Admission to the Teacher Education Program allows candidates to progress in their plan of study while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure academic success in the Teacher Education Program.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.00-2.50 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

Evaluation Requirements:

Dispositions:

  • Recommendation from candidate's EDUC 101 instructor
  • Dispositions Recommendation from full-time faculty member in candidate's content major
  • Self-assessment of dispositions at time of application to TEP

Field Experiences:

  • Field Experience Recommendation from EDUC 101
  • Mentor Teacher Recommendation from EDUC 290
  • Supervisor Recommendation from EDUC 290

Progression Point 2: Progression to Student Teaching Residency

Course Requirements:

  • Complete of all professional education courses for the Secondary Education major with a grade of C- or better with the exception of EDUC 494 and 496, the Student Teaching Residency course package
  • Complete all courses for the content area major

GPA Requirements:

For full admission to Student Teaching Residency:

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or greater in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 3.00 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50 or better in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major

For conditional admission to Student Teaching Residency:

Conditional Admission to Student Teaching allows candidates to progress to student teaching while taking advantage of systems of support provided by the department to help ensure success.

  • Have earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.25-2.749 in all coursework taken at and transferred to North Central College
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.50-2.999 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the Secondary Education major
  • Have earned a GPA of 2.00-2.499 in all coursework taken for and transferred in to the content area major (min. 16 credit hours)

Recommendation Requirements:

  • Mentor Teacher Recommendations from EDUC 390 and 490
  • Supervisor Recommendations from EDUC 390 and 490
  • Practitioner Interview Recommendation, if assigned
  • Receive a recommendation from the Department of Education for Student Teaching Residency

Additional Requirements:

  • Complete the practice edTPA as required for EDUC 4XX HS/MS Methods:<Content Area> and EDUC 403 HS/MS Assessment of Learning
  • *Earn a passing Score on the appropriate ILTS content test
    (ENGL: 207; MATH: 208; BIOL: 105 or 239; CHEM: 106 or 240; PHYSICS: 116 or 243; HIST: 246; CHIN: 126 or 251; FREN: 252, GERM: 253; SPAN 260).

Progression Point 3: Licensure

  • *Pass EDUC 494 Student Teaching Residency Seminar, and EDUC 496 Student Teaching Residency with a grade of C- or better
  • *Earn a passing Score on the edTPA teacher performance assessment
  • *Complete all other necessary requirements to earn a bachelor's degree

* Illinois State Board of Education requirement enforced by North Central College

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

NOTE: This page contains all of the regular course descriptions for this discipline or program. Academic credit for each course is noted in parenthesis after the course title. Prerequisites (if any) and the general education requirements, both Core and All-College Requirements (ACRs), which each course fulfills (if any) are noted following each course description. Not all courses are offered every year. Check Merlin, our searchable course schedule, to see which courses are being offered in upcoming semesters.

EDUC 101 - Foundations of Teaching and Learning

4.00 credit hours

Examination of the structures and processes that frame the work of teaching and learning in schools with an emphasis on equity and culturally relevant and sustainable practice. Emphasis on the impact of curricular learning standards and development of children and adolescents on teaching, learning and decision making. An overview of the profession, the Danielson Framework for Teaching, the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards, Common Core Standards and the expectations of the North Central College Teacher Education Program are introduced in this gateway course. Required: 15 field experience hours must be completed at North Central College. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks.

Prerequisite(s): Background check and Tuberculosis test.

Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science, U.S. Power Structures, Community Engaged Learning.
iCon(s): Challenging Inequity.

EDUC 196 - Foundational Field Experience

0.00 credit hours

Directed field experience in educational settings for students transferring in EDUC 101 equivalent. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 101 or concurrent enrollment.

EDUC 200 - Introduction to HS/MS/K12 Teaching

4.00 credit hours

Introduction to teaching methods including instructional and assessment strategies. Emphasis on direct teaching, interactive instructional strategies and assessment strategies that develop the skills and processes needed to help K-12 students acquire foundational, conceptual and procedural knowledge.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 101 or EDUC 196; PSYC 100. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 290.

EDUC 228 - Elementary Methods: Social Studies

4.00 credit hours

Introduction to methods of teaching social studies in the elementary classroom including instructional and assessment strategies. Emphasis on direct teaching, interactive instructional strategies and assessment strategies that develop the skills and processes needed to help elementary students acquire foundational, conceptual and procedural knowledge.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 101 or EDUC 196; PSYC 100 and a U.S. History course. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 260 and EDUC 291.

EDUC 235 - Educational Technology in K-12 Classroom

2.00 credit hours

Introduces preservice teachers to curricular uses of computers and related technologies and applications for teaching and learning in grades K-12.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 101 or concurrent enrollment.

EDUC 260 - Elementary Methods: Literacy I

4.00 credit hours

Provides a foundational understanding of literacy and its related components. Teacher candidates are introduced to various reading and learning theories, as well as effective use of children’s literature within literacy instruction. Candidates develop techniques to support students in applying their developing literacy skills to different situations, materials and ideas.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 101 or EDUC 196; PSYC 100. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 228 and EDUC 291.

EDUC 290 - HS/MS/K12 Field Experience I

1.00 credit hours

Introductory experience in directed observation and participation at selected attendance centers (50 clock hours). This course is graded pass/no pass. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 200.

EDUC 291 - Elementary Field Experience I

1.00 credit hours

Introductory experience in directed observation and participation at selected attendance centers (50 clock hours). This course is graded pass/no pass. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 228 and EDUC 260 or MUED 351.

EDUC 297 - Internship

0.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed internship experience in educational settings.

EDUC 299 - Independent Study

1.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed study under faculty supervision on topics and projects related to education.

EDUC 320 - Equitable Learning Environments: Elementary

4.00 credit hours

Examination of management models and strategies, as well as school policy related to discipline. There is an emphasis on teaching for equity and change. Approaches to making classrooms, curricula and instructional strategies culturally responsive are studied.

Prerequisite(s): Education majors: Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 324, EDUC 326 and EDUC 391. Non-Education majors: Junior Standing.

Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures.
iCon(s): Challenging Inequity.

EDUC 322 - Equitable Learning Environments: HS/MS

4.00 credit hours

Examination of management models and strategies, as well as school policy related to discipline. There is an emphasis on teaching for equity and change. Approaches to making classrooms, curricula and instructional strategies culturally responsive are studied.

Prerequisite(s): Education majors: Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 360 and EDUC 390. Non-Education majors: Junior standing.

Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures.
iCon(s): Challenging Inequity.

EDUC 324 - Elementary Methods: Mathematics

4.00 credit hours

A foundational course on the guiding principles and learning theories of teaching mathematics at the elementary and MS levels. Emphasis is on the application of research-based instructional strategies that facilitate students’ conceptual understanding, procedural fluency and mathematical reasoning skills in the mathematics classroom.

Prerequisite(s): MATH 108. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 320, EDUC 326 and EDUC 391.

EDUC 326 - Elementary Methods: Science

4.00 credit hours

Introduction to methods for teaching science in elementary school classrooms including instruction and assessment strategies. Emphasis on differentiated instruction, indirect teaching methods and teaching and assessment strategies that facilitate high level learning.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program and one laboratory science. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 320, EDUC 324 and EDUC 391.

EDUC 330 - Teaching Students With Disabilities

4.00 credit hours

Examines issues and current trends within inclusive and special education as well asoverviews the characteristics of persons with disabilities including multi-cultural perspectives and legal issues. Explores instructional models and methods that have empirical support for their effectiveness in addressing the learning needs of students at-risk for or with identified disabilities. Emphasis is placed on the importance and challenges associated with the role of general educator within inclusive classrooms. Candidates also explores the selection, adaptation and development of instructional supports related to lesson design, presentation, materials, assignments and assessment/evaluation. This course includes 15 hours of required field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program.

EDUC 331 - Elementary Methods: Art

4.00 credit hours

An interactive study of art education issues and practices for the elementary portion of K-12 Art Teacher certification. Through discussion, observation and modeling, students use state goals and curricula to develop a meaningful, integrated art program. The focus is on sequential skill building, expressive content lessons and teaching strategies based on the physical, social and emotional needs of the grades 1-6 student.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, ARTD 107,  ARTD 120 and ARTD 160. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 332.

EDUC 332 - Elementary Field Experience: Art

1.00 credit hours

Provides students with an extended field experience in an elementary school art classroom supervised jointly by an NCC supervisor and the classroom teacher. Students complete 50 hours of supervised field work, applying research-based methods to actual teaching situations in the elementary school setting. At least twice during the term, an NCC supervisor observes the students as they conduct lessons and conducts a follow up conference in which the student and supervisor evaluate and discuss the lesson. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 331.

EDUC 338 - HS/MS Methods: Art

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching visual arts at the HS and MS level are explored. Postmodern principles, multiple media and technological processes are applied to content areas. Art education students develop interdisciplinary lesson plans that improve students’ expressive and analytical capacities.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Arts, Writing Intensive.

EDUC 340 - HS/MS Methods: English

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching English (literature, composition and language) at the high school and middle school level are explored. Consideration is given to such issues as instructional planning in a multicultural setting, teaching reading in the content areas and writing across the curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Arts, Writing Intensive.

EDUC 342 - K12 Methods: World Languages

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching foreign languages at the HS, MS and elementary school levels are explored.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

EDUC 344 - HS/MS Methods: Mathematics

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching mathematics at the HS and MS level are explored. Consideration is given to such issues as instructional planning in a multicultural setting, teaching reading in the content areas and writing across the curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

EDUC 346 - HS/MS Methods: Science

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching science (biology, chemistry and physics) at the HS and MS level are explored.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

EDUC 348 - HS/MS Methods: Social Studies

4.00 credit hours

Current research and methods of teaching social studies at the HS and MS level are explored.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 403 and EDUC 490.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

EDUC 360 - HS/MS Content Area Literacies

4.00 credit hours

Examines the current research, curricular goals and methods of effectively teaching literacy learning in 6-12 classrooms. Preservice teachers develop an understanding of the reading process, demands of academic literacies and characteristics of adolescent learners. Students are exposed to targeted reading instructions for struggling adolescent readers as well as readers from linguistic and culturally diverse backgrounds and apply strategies for teaching reading within their specific disciplines.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 322 and EDUC 390.
iCon(s): Being Human.

EDUC 362 - Elementary Methods-Literacy II

4 credit hours

Prepares teacher candidates to know, understand and use concepts from reading, language and child development to teach various literacy skills to students in elementary grades. Candidates will develop techniques to support students in applying their developing literacy skills to different situations, materials and ideas. This includes a focus on writing, speaking and listening skills within the literacy curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 320, EDUC 324 and EDUC 326. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 401 and EDUC 491. 
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

EDUC 372 - Writing Related to Reading

4.00 credit hours

Focuses on the connection between reading and writing. Writing is viewed as both a product and a process.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 260.

EDUC 383 - Methods and Materials to Teach English Language Learners

4.00 credit hours

Focuses on methods, approaches and materials used in the teaching of English as a second language. Methods of teaching different language skills as well as theories and practices to differentiate instruction to respond to K-12 English language learners’ needs are introduced. Students are engaged in developing, implementing and evaluating lesson plans and materials.

Prerequisite(s): LANG 380. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 384.

EDUC 384 - Practicum in Teaching English Language Learners

1.00 credit hours

Designed to provide students with an extended supervised field experience in an elementary, middle, or secondary school classroom with an emphasis on teaching English language learners. Students observe, assist and teach several lessons under the joint supervision of a cooperating teacher in the school and a supervisor from NCC. Req: 50 field experience hours. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent Enrollment in EDUC 383.

EDUC 385 - Assessment of English Language Learners and Bilingual Students

2.00 credit hours

Provides a comprehensive understanding of using assessment data to make informed decisions for the education of English language learners (ELLs). It allows the participants to become aware of critical issues related to the assessment of culturally and linguistically diverse learners. Req.: 25-hour field experience.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program.

EDUC 386 - Methods and Materials for Teaching in Bilingual Classrooms

4.00 credit hours

Focuses on language teaching methods and classroom materials for use with English Language Learners (ELLs) in K-12 Bilingual classrooms. Methods of teaching listening, speaking, reading and writing are presented and practiced. Methods for integrating the teaching of language and academic content are introduced and practiced. Sheltering and scaffolding instruction is emphasized, and students select and critically analyze materials for use in the Bilingual classroom.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program and LANG 380.

EDUC 390 - HS/MS/K12 Field Experience II

1.00 credit hours

Directed observation and participation experience at selected attendance centers (50 clock hours). Focus on individual, small group and whole group teaching. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 322 and EDUC 360.

EDUC 391 - Elementary Field Experience II

1.00 credit hours

Directed observation and participation experience at selected attendance centers (50 clockhours). Focus on individual, small group and whole group teaching. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 320, EDUC 324 and EDUC 326.

EDUC 397 - Internship

0.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed internship experience in educational settings.

EDUC 399 - Independent Study

1.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed study under faculty supervision on topics and projects related to education.

EDUC 401 - Elementary Assessment of Learning

4.00 credit hours

Principles, methods and techniques of assessing learning of elementary school students that communicates progress and achievement to students and parents and informs teacher decision making.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 320, EDUC 324 and EDUC 326. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 362 and EDUC 491.

EDUC 403 - HS/MS Assessment of Learning

4.00 credit hours

Principles, methods and techniques of assessing learning of HS and MS students that communicates progress and achievement to students and parents as well as informs teacher decision making.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program, EDUC 322 and EDUC 360. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 338, EDUC 340, EDUC 342, EDUC 344, EDUC 346, EDUC 348 or MUED 353; EDUC 490.

EDUC 411 - Equity and Access in Systems of Education

4.00 credit hours

Students examine and analyze their role as an advocate for equity in systems of education. Drawing from leadership perspectives, students investigate educational theories and practices instituted locally, nationally and globally. The goal of this course is to assist students to both understand these systems and develop the knowledge and skills to be agents of change.

Prerequisite(s): Education Majors: EDUC 320 or EDUC 322; Non-Education Majors: Junior standing.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures.
iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life, Experiencing Place.
 

EDUC 432 - Characteristics of Students with Disabilities

3.00 credit hours

Examines the identifying characteristics of students with physical and neurological disabilities as defined under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act. Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are studied along with the definitions of different disabilities and incidence rates. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 432 and MEDU 532.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 330.

EDUC 433 - Methods for Teaching Students withDisabilities

3 credit hours

Effective instructional methods, strategies, accommodations and modifications, in multiple content areas, as they relate to teaching K-12 students with high incidence disabilities in inclusive settings. Strategies to collaborate with colleagues and with parents/families of students with disabilities are also covered, including co-teaching, family-educator conferences and working effectively with paraprofessionals. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 433 and MEDU 533.

Prerequisite or Co-requisite: EDUC 432.

EDUC 434 - Diagnosis and Assessment of Students with Disabilities

3.00 credit hours

Prepares students in the field of education with knowledge, skills and experience related to: 1) diagnostic and educational assessment instruments and methods; 2) administration and scoring of diagnostic and educational assessments; 3) interpretation of assessment results; 4) data-based decision making regarding placement, instructional planning and evaluation of students with disabilities; 5) communication of diagnostic and educational assessment results to colleagues and parents. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 434 and MEDU 534.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 432 and EDUC 433.

EDUC 462 - Reading Assessment Tools and Strategies

4.00 credit hours

Students are introduced to an examination of the nature of the reading process and the tools and strategies used to evaluate reading development. Emphasis is placed on the use of assessment to strengthen and extend the reading abilities of MS students. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 462 and MEDU 562.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 362.

EDUC 463 - Diagnostic Reading Instruction

4.00 credit hours

Students are introduced to the nature of literacy development and the learning difficulties children may face as they develop as readers. The focus of the course is on the interactive view of reading ability and disability, which suggests that reading is the process of constructing meaning through interaction between the reader, the text and the context of the reading situation. Students are exposed to a variety of alternative teaching strategies and materials to help students solve their problems with reading. Emphasis is placed on a holistic and ongoing approach to the diagnostic process and the relationship between diagnostic assessment and instructional planning. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 463 and MEDU 563.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 462. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 464.

EDUC 464 - Diagnostic Reading Practicum

1.00 credit hours

Students use a variety of alternative teaching strategies and materials while working with elementary/MS students in a supervised practicum setting. Students conduct a multifaceted diagnostic assessment to identify individual reading abilities and difficulties and develop a plan for intervention based on assessment results. Emphasis is placed on applying techniques learned in EDUC 462/MEDU 562 and EDUC 463 /MEDU 563. Students may not receive credit for both EDUC 464 and MEDU 564.

Prerequisite(s): EDUC 462. Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 463.

EDUC 490 - HS/MS/K12 Field Experience III

1.00 credit hours

Provides students with an extended field experience in a MS or HS classroom in the student’s major content area (art, English, foreign language, mathematics, music, science, or social studies). Students complete 75 hours of supervised field work applying research-based methods and techniques to actual teaching situations under the joint supervision of the cooperating classroom teacher and the NCC supervisor. While 75 hours are required for this field experience, candidates will complete 20-25 hours in placements prior to the start of NCC’s academic term in order to experience start of school activities. Graded P/NP. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 338, EDUC 340, EDUC 342, EDUC 344, EDUC 346, EDUC 348 or MUED 353;EDUC 403.

EDUC 491 - Elementary Field Experience III

1.00 credit hours

Provides students with an extended field experience in elementary school classroom. Students complete 75 hours of supervised field work applying research-based methods and techniques to actual teaching situations under the joint supervision of the cooperating classroom teacher and the NCC supervisor. While 75 hours are required for this field experience, candidates will complete 20-25 hours in placements prior to the start of NCC’s academic term in order to experience start of school activities. Graded P/NP. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 362 and EDUC 401.

EDUC 494 - Residency Seminar

4.00 credit hours

This seminar engages students to expand their knowledge and skills in topics such as engaging instruction, effective assessment, data driven decision-making, parent communication and analysis and reflection on instruction. Focus is given to all tasks of the Teacher Performance Assessment, edTPA. Additionally, attention is given to aspects of professional development, professional service and community involvement.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program; completion of all professional education coursework; passing score(s) in the Illinois Licensure Testing System required content test(s). Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 492 and EDUC 496.
Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Community Engaged Learning.
iCon(s): Experiencing Place.

EDUC 496 - Student Teaching Residency

8.00 credit hours

A five-day per week, full day student teaching experience in an elementary, MS or HS classroom. Candidates assume all of the responsibilities of teaching (planning, instruction, assessment, record keeping, etc.) using a co-teaching model building up to full responsibility. Students are required to provide proof of health insurance. Registration for this course at least 15 days prior to the first day of the term is strongly encouraged as additional background checks may be required; an additional fee could be incurred based on district requirements for background checks. Background check required. Tuberculosis test required.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Teacher Education Program; completion of all professional education coursework; passing score(s) in the Illinois Licensure Testing System required content test(s). Concurrent enrollment in EDUC 492 and EDUC 496.

EDUC 498 - Internship

0.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed internship experience in educational settings.

EDUC 499 - Independent Study

1.00-12.00 credit hours

Directed study under faculty supervision on topics and projects related to education.

Faculty Emeriti

Rebecca Clemente, Ph.D.
Professor of Education Emerita
B.A., Ashland University, 1971; M.Ed., 1988, Ph.D., 1992, Kent State University 
rclemente@noctrl.edu

Sheryl Finkle, Ph.D.
Professor of Education Emerita
B.S., 1975, M.S., 1981, Illinois State University; Ph.D., 1990, Ohio State University
slfinkle@noctrl.edu

Nancy Keiser, Ed.D.
Professor of Education Emerita
B.A., Luther College, 1976; M.S., 1981, Ed.D., 1997, Northern Illinois University 
njkeiser@noctrl.edu

Maureen Kincaid, Ed.D.
Professor of Education Emerita
B.A., 1984, M.S.Ed., 1987, Ed.D., 1997, Northern Illinois University

Winifred M. Makowski, Ed.D.
Associate Professor of Education Emerita
B.S., Chicago Teachers College North, 1963; M.Ed., 1969, Ed.D., 1988, Loyola University 
wmmakowski@noctrl.edu