Social Studies (B.S.)

Student Learning Outcomes for Social Studies certification:

Students will be able to:

• Plan, design, and implement research-based instructional and assessment practices appropriate for students between seventh and twelve grades.

• Develop and apply instructional methodologies, including the use of technology, appropriate for students between seventh and twelve grades.

• Demonstrate content knowledge in the disciplines of social studies - history, economics, geography, civics and government, sociology, anthropology, and psychology.

• Critically apply content knowledge and skills germane to the disciplines of social studies to facilitate student learning appropriate for students between seventh and twelve grades.

• Create, organize, and maintain an effective and safe classroom environment conducive to the learning and development of students between seventh and twelve grades.

• Design and implement successful interventions responsive to the needs of students between seventh and twelve grades.

• Exhibit the qualities that characterize a professional individual, including professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities of a certified teacher.

• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to continued professional development and service.

Students pursuing a Social Studies certification acquire a mastery of the various subject fields that are part of a secondary social studies curriculum. In addition, the program provides training in the techniques of teaching, along with actual teaching experience in a social studies classroom. Upon successful completion of the program, students are certified to teach social studies in secondary schools in Pennsylvania and, by reciprocal agreement, in several other states.

For further information, contact the Social Studies Major Advisor, Dr. Rachel Finley-Bowman, Department of Education.