EDUCATORS AS ARCHITECTS OF CHANGE

The phrase Educators as Architects of Change is the conceptual framework for the professional experience offered by GCSU. This framework is constructed upon a professional knowledge base which focuses on the following core concepts:

Architects of Change requires emphasis on developing educators with inquisitive analytical minds; respect for human diversity and individuality, a sense of civic and global responsibility; sound ethical principles; effective writing, speaking, and quantitative skills; and a healthy lifestyle. The model embodies the commitment to prepare students with a passion for achievement, a lifelong curiosity, and exuberance for learning.

Foundation in the Liberal Arts Tradition

Students in GCSU's undergraduate cohort programs are prepared with a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Each student takes four courses in mathematics; sciences; social sciences; humanities, fine arts, multiculturalism and diversity, as well as philosophical, historical, cultural and psychological foundations of education.

Professional Preparation in Teacher Education

Students are prepared to read, critique, and do research. Each educational outcome, individual student, group interaction and each instructional plan is viewed as an intellectual task. Architects of Change must continually ask "why" and be prepared to provide answers worthy of a professional educator.

Human Relations and Diversity

All undergraduate students are equipped to teach students with special needs and engage in coursework in culturally relevant pedagogy and diversity. The key to the integration of the liberal arts and education lies in the emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective writing, speaking, and quantitative skills.

Development of Dynamic Leadership Abilities

With a strong foundation in the liberal arts, a commitment to the big picture questions raised in educational foundations courses, and the habits of the mind cultivated in core curriculum and professional education, Architects of Change are prepared to meet the high standards expected of interactive professionals. The commitment to this model of teacher preparation requires a faculty committed to supporting teacher candidates above and beyond the typical role of instructor or supervisor—modeling the life of a committed professional leader.

Cohort, Field-Based Model

Essential to the Georgia College & State University undergraduate programs are the cohort model and the extensive field-based programs. A cohort is a group of students who takes courses together throughout a program. Undergraduate cohorts begin in the fall semester of students' junior year and last two years. Providing program offerings in cohort groups enhances the opportunities for developing collaboration that will eventually apply to school and community.

Students must apply and be formally accepted into a School of Education teacher education program. Completed application packets are due the third Friday of January before the beginning of the cohort programs.