EDCI 1301 - Introduction to the Teaching Profession
Hours: 3
This course explores the traditions of schooling and classrooms from global perspectives of current political, social, and familial issues impacting schooling and classrooms worldwide. Students will analyze the learning environment and the human experiences of teachers and learners and compare U.S. schools and the American educational system to those of other countries.
EDCI 1354 - Child Growth and Development
Hours: 3
A study of the physical, emotional, social, language, and cognitive factors impacting growth and development of children through adolescence.
EDCI 2501 - Science Methods for Elementary
Hours: 3
This course prepares teacher candidates to design, deliver, and assess effective science instruction for learners in elementary and middle school (EC–6 and 4–8). Emphasis is placed on inquiry-based teaching, hands-on investigations, and the use of developmentally appropriate strategies that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and problem solving. Candidates will learn to integrate science with mathematics, literacy, and technology while addressing the needs of all learners. Attention is given to safety in the science classroom, alignment with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), and connections to national science standards. Field-based experiences provide opportunities for candidates to apply instructional methods in authentic classroom settings across the elementary and middle grades. Prerequisites: MATH 1314 with a minimum grade of C.
EDCI 214 - Science of Learning & Development
Hours: 3
This course is designed to provide preservice teachers with a knowledge base of the changes and issues that typically affect student development. Students will examine and study the various domains of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development. Students will also consider how various learning theories and grade band applicable special topics inform practices for teaching students in their grade level and content area. Special attention will be given to cognitive theories and development grounded in the science of learning. All of these topics will be applied within the context of classroom practices and the internalization and adaptation of High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM).
EDCI 238 - Introduction to Teaching Social Studies in Elementary
Hours: 3
This course explores the integrated nature of learning with social studies as content focus. Course includes analysis of vertical and horizontal alignment of the strands of the K-5 Social Studies Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) to prepare preservice teachers for providing comprehensive Social Studies instruction.
EDCI 380 - Content Area Literacy
Hours: 3
The preservice teacher will explore the science of teaching reading and the integration of best practices for supporting reading and writing instruction in content areas. Students will examine strategies for various disciplines and middle/secondary levels. Attention will be given to how teachers support students in reading textbooks and other learning materials. The course will include phonics, phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, fluency, writing processes, and assessments. Prerequisites: SED 331 with a minimum grade of C or concurrent enrollment and admission to the Educator Preparation Program.
EDCI 412 - Supporting Students K-12 with Emphasis on Emergent Bilinguals
Hours: 3
This course investigates effective strategies for supporting all K-12 students, emphasizing the needs of emergent bilinguals. Content includes foundational language acquisition and literacy skills, the application of trauma-informed practices, and the design of targeted intervention supports for diverse learners. Prerequisites: SED 332 with a minimum grade of C or Concurrent Enrollment or RDG 350 with a minimum grade of C or Concurrent Enrollment and admission to the Educator Preparation Program.
EDCI 414 - Management and Curriculum Development
Hours: 3
This course contains the professional body of knowledge necessary for effective teaching in a K-12 classroom. The focus is teaching and learning in all environments with an emphasis on instructional design and methods of organizing and managing a classroom. The content of this course will include classroom management approaches, curriculum and lesson planning, teaching models, assessment, effective communication strategies, and certification issues. Students will exhibit an understanding of the domains and competencies of the TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities certification examination. Prerequisites: Permission of Advisor, minimum overall GPA of 2.5, admission to teacher education program, and must have passed TSI. ELED 412 for EC-6 majors. Corequisites: ELED 422. Crosslisted with: EDCI 514.
EDCI 415 - Effective Teaching
Hours: 3
This course focuses on understanding learning theories and aligning effective teaching strategies that address the needs of all students. Included in this course will be a variety of issues which focus on curricular, instructional, managerial and assessment techniques. Use of educational technologies in teaching and learning will be incorporated. Students will exhibit an understanding of the legal responsibilities and professional responsibilities of Texas teachers as assessed by TExES.Pre-requisites: EDCI 414 co-requisite EDCI 422. Note: minimum overall GPA of 2.5, admission to teacher education program, and must have passed TSI. Enrollment is limited to students working as educational aides. Cross listed with EDCI 515.
EDCI 460 - STEM in Elementary
Hours: 3
This course examines elementary teaching practices with a focus on science, technology, and math. Students will plan an authentic learning experience that integrates content areas and promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Prerequisites: Requires admission to the Educator Preparation Program.
EDCI 497 - Special Topics
Hours: 0-4
