Atlanta Campus Catalog 2011-2012 - Mercer University

lowing program outcomes correlate to the elements, principles, and characteristics ofthe unit’s conceptual framework, The Transforming Practitioner.Middle Grades M.Ed. Program OutcomesUpon completion of the Middle Grades Master of Education program, the candidate will:Content and Process: To Know• Understand how culture, students’ approaches to learning, and exceptionalitiesimpact middle school students and their families. (Diversity)• Understand the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related toyoung adolescent development. (Understanding)• Understand principles, theories, and research underlying the philosophical foundationsand organizational components of highly effective middle level schools.(Understanding)• Understand the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related todevelop middle level curriculum and assessment. (Understanding)• Understand the major concepts, principles, theories, standards, and researchrelated to their teaching field(s). (Understanding)• Understand the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related toeffective middle level instruction and assessment, and apply a variety of effectivestrategies to meet the varying abilities, interests, and learning styles of all youngadolescents. (Understanding and Practicing)• Understand the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related toworking collaboratively with family and community members. (Diversity andCollaboration)• Understand the principles, theories, and research related to their professionalroles in middle level education. (Understanding)Application: To Do• Create learning experiences that make content meaningful for students in grades4-8 (Practicing and Engagement)• Articulate and apply learner characteristics during the processes of planning,reflecting upon lessons, and revising instruction. (Practicing, Engagement, andReflection)• Possess and implement a repertoire of teaching strategies that improves students’problem solving, decision-making, and critical thinking abilities. (Practicingand Engagement)• Understand, design, and implement appropriate formal and informal assessmenttools and recognize how assessment strategies may impact an individual’s lifelonglearning. (Practicing)• Take seriously his/her role as an educational scholar who contributes to theknowledge base for teaching and learning. (Research)• Develop and effectively use curriculum from at least two content areas thataddresses the developmental need of the middle grades learner. (Practicing)Attitude: To Be• Use effective communication strategies that foster active inquiry, collaboration,and supportive interactions. (Collaboration)• Behave ethically and collaboratively while advocating for students and for the professionof teaching. (Advocacy)TIFT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION / 191