Elementary Education

The elementary education major is designed to produce teachers who have the knowledge, social competencies, methods, communication skills, and sensitivity to be effective in the school environment. Students complete methods courses, professional education courses, and field experiences and observations. They develop critical thinking skills through an analysis of educational history, philosophy and psychology; measurement and evaluation of learning; and classroom management. They gain awareness of cultural diversity and the social and political contexts of education. Elementary education majors must also demonstrate ability in liberal arts areas including mathematics, science, writing, communication, social studies, and the fine arts. The education major is based on state, regional and national certification/ licensure criteria and testing competencies. Graduates of the elementary education major are prepared to serve in a variety of school settings, both public and private.

The Ottawa University teacher education program is state approved in Kansas and is also accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).