March 5, 2008
Two Holy Cross students taking part in the Teacher Education Program say that the experiential learning and rich curriculum -- which explores the political, historical, social, and psychological dimensions involved in contemporary education -- are preparing them exceptionally well for their planned careers as teachers.
Christine Strawson '08, a biology major with a premedical concentration from Torrington, Conn., says the thorough process helps students be prepared before they step in front of a classroom of 30 students.
"The classes that I have taken as part of the Teacher Education Program have helped me learn about recent educational research, philosophies, teaching techniques, theories and adolescent development," she says. "All of the classes have been pertinent to the teaching profession. The pre-practicum portions of the program give us on-site experience and require that we immerse ourselves into the high school or middle school culture. We work closely with our supervising practitioners and develop collegial relationships within the school community. Each week we submit formal lesson plans for each of our three classes -- upwards of 45 pages."
Strawson, a volleyball stand-out who was Patriot League Scholar-Athlete of the Year, plans to return to Connecticut and teach biology at a public high school near her hometown. She plans to pursue her master's degree in education while she teaches. She is considering earning a second certification in chemistry or general science.
For the complete article from the www.holycross.edu click here.
