Elementary Education – Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA)

The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education degree program prepares candidates to teach children in grades Kindergarten through six. The program is designed to provide courses and field-based learning experiences that equip students with the skills and competencies required to meet the educational needs of children in a multi-ethnic, urban environment. Specifically, the program teaches students to manage a performance-based, behaviorally-oriented learning environment in the elementary grades. The course of study provides a curriculum that prepares students for advanced study and careers as educational specialist. The program emphasizes multi-faceted curriculum approaches designed to help candidates function in a school environment which provides outcomes-oriented learning experiences, as well as standards-based curriculum designs. Additionally, elementary education majors are exposed to opportunities to understand and actively participate in innovative and creative approaches to teaching and curriculum reforms. For more information, please contact Prof. Ayanna C. Kelley, Program Coordinator, at 202. 274.7245 or ayanna.kelley@udc.edu.

Accreditation:

The program is accredited by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

CAEP Annual Reporting Measures

Objectives for Elementary Education Undergraduate Programs

Students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy.
  2.  Communicate effectively.
  3.  Utilize effective classroom and behavior management techniques.
  4. Design, implement and assess developmentally appropriate teaching/learning activities.
  5. Understand and demonstrate respect for individual needs and diversity.
  6. Integrate instructional and assistive technology to enhance learning for all students.
  7. Commit to continuous growth through reflection and professional development.
  8. Advocate change to improve education for students, school system, and self; display leadership qualities.
  9. Effectively collaborate with students, parents, colleagues, schools, and communities.

Related:

 

Curriculum and Requirements in the UDC Elementary Education Program

Students in the bachelor’s program in Elementary Education at UDC must complete a 123 credit hour plan of study to earn the degree. Students are required to take courses such as: human development; children in urban schools; and methods and materials of teaching math, science, language arts, social studies. Students are also required to complete a practicum and earn student teaching experience.

Recent elective courses have included:

  • Technology for Teachers
  • Child Health and Nutrition
  • Developing and Implementing IEP
  • Corrective and Remedial Reading

Core course topic areas include:

  • Human Development
  • Foundations of Education
  • Methods and Materials of Teaching
  • Practicums and Student Teaching

Program of Study

Student Organizations and Activities

Students are encouraged to pursue campus- and department-sponsored service-learning and community-based research opportunities with community organizations, nonprofits, schools, and other groups in the local area. Opportunities include:

Education Club: The student-led club volunteers, tutors, and hosts fundraisers for children in the District of Columbia.

ACEI: Association for Childhood Education International is to promote and support the optimal education, development, and well-being of children and youth worldwide.

Faculty Spotlight: UDC Elementary Education Program

Career Pathways and Prospects

The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares students for graduate study in any number of fields or for a career in areas such as:

  • Teaching
  • Public policy
  • School Leader/Principal

UDC’s Elementary Education faculty and the university’s Career and Professional Development Center have a strong track record of assisting graduates in transitioning into the workforce.

Contact info:

Prof. Ayanna C. Kelley (Program Coordinator/Elementary Education Majors Advisor)  | T: 202.274-7245 | E: Ayanna.kelley@udc.edu

Dr. Arlene King-Berry (SPED Advisor)  |T: 202.274.5973 | E. akberry@udc.edu