Evidence of the Conceptual Frameworks Throughout the Standards
Shared Vision-Initial Level. The initial-level conceptual framework is anchored by the program theme, "caring professional educators for a diverse and democratic society." This theme is central to the mission of the Unit as it weaves together all of the professional preparation programs found in departments in the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Technology.
The work of the Unit is based on the fundamental belief that the candidates in teacher preparation programs at Eastern Michigan University should have an identified curriculum that supports the development of broad content and pedagogical knowledge, effective skills in teaching diverse groups of students, and personal and professional skills needed to teach in contemporary classrooms. Further, it is the belief of the faculty that our initial-level conceptual framework should be grounded in research and the wisdom of practice, be shared both internally among students and staff, and externally with the broader learning community, and that it should establish a shared vision for all programs leading to initial teacher certification.
The conceptual framework has been shared with students through group advising meetings, discussions in core classes, and through discussions of delineated outcomes required in core program assessments. Materials prepared for student use carry the"CPED2S" logo, an acronym for the program theme that students recognize and understand.
In addition, the conceptual framework has been shared with our colleagues at the University through the Committee for Basic Programs, the College of Education Council, the College of Education web page, and a variety of print materials. We have also shared the conceptual framework with our P-12 colleagues through the Teacher Education Advisory Committee and through program handbooks which are given to all field supervisors and site administrators.
Shared Vision-Advanced Level. The conceptual framework for advanced programs is anchored by the program theme, "inquiry, advocacy, and leadership in education for a diverse and democratic society." This theme is central to the mission of the College of Education as it weaves together all of the advanced professional programs found in departments in the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Technology.
The work of the Unit is based on the fundamental belief that the students in advanced programs at Eastern Michigan University should go beyond the knowledge, skills, and dispositions required of initial students to become leaders in educational settings who are grounded in inquiry and committed to advocacy for students. Further, it is the belief of the faculty, that our educational practices across professional roles should be grounded in research and the wisdom of practice shared in a variety of learning communities. This belief leads to culminating projects and activities that are research-based and embedded in practice. Through the efforts of our graduate students, best practices in professional education are shared in our College and in our communities.
The conceptual framework for advanced programs is still in fairly early stages of dissemination. It has been shared with our colleagues at the University through the Committee for Advanced Programs, College of Education Web Page, and a variety of print materials. We have also shared the conceptual framework with our P-12 colleagues through the Teacher Education Advisory Committee.