School of Education Goals
The goals of the School of Education are generated through a firm commitment to its philosophy statement:
1. To prepare reflective practitioners committed to excellence in service to others.
a. Students will demonstrate an understanding of current and past philosophical systems and theories relevant to their specialized area of study.
b. Students will be able to articulate a well-reasoned philosophy and theory that will guide them in a chosen area of professional practice.
c. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the ability to maintain professional integrity in keeping with current guidelines for professional ethics.
d. Students will demonstrate knowledge of appropriate behaviors for developing positive interpersonal relationships.
2. To instill five essential elements within our students:
· Scholarship and Knowledge -- developing a well-rounded education foundation that incorporates learning through experience and scholarship and is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge.
· Intellectual Inquiry and Communication -- identified in educators who practice reflective critical thinking in their interactions within the educational community;
· Community Building -- identified in educators who seek out and engage others in a collaborative exchange of information, in considering alternatives, and in sharing leadership for reaching common goals;
· Leadership and Service -- identified in educators who serve others and promote social justice; and
· Spirituality and Values -- identified in educators who collaborate with others, exercise good stewardship, and model professional and Jesuit-inspired values in their decision-making.
3. To offer students an excellent professional education and a sound background within a liberal tradition of education.
a. Students will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the principles of communication.
b. Students will be able to identify information from related fields having implications for careers in education.
c. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the legal implications of professional practice in their specialized area.
d. Students will demonstrate the ability to organize and use information and resources necessary for competent practice.
e. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the work habits, attitudes, values, interests, and personal relationships necessary for successful employment in institutions and agencies.
4. To reaffirm and strengthen the Department’s commitment of service to the community.
a. Students will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the basic theories of human motivation.
b. Students will manifest a sense of inner strength in their ability to meet the challenges of a professional career.
c. Students will demonstrate an understanding and acceptance of the positive values of others whom they encounter in their professional lives.
d. Students will be able to develop programs and policies to positively affect the lives of others.
5. To promote enlightened behavior and value-centered teaching.