Education Foundations

Contact Information

Cheryl Redinger
Education Instructor

creding@inverhills.edu
651-450-3306
HH305

Janice Hofschulte
Education Instructor

jhofsch@inverhills.edu
651-450-3453
B-115b

Admissions Team

admissions@inverhills.edu
651-450-3000
College Center

The Education Foundations program prepares students to the field of teaching through a series of pre-professional introductory courses and recommended electives. The curriculum includes opportunities to examine professional knowledge, engage in reflection, and understand culturally relevant approaches to instruction while also becoming immersed in classroom experiences at local school districts. The A.S. in Educational Foundations prepares students for transfer to a four year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree and subsequent recommendation for teacher licensure. Students may also have the potential to earn an Associate of Arts, if they complete Physical Education (1 credit) & Health (1 credit).

Note: If you have been arrested, charged or convicted of any criminal offense, you should investigate the impact that the arrest, charge or conviction may have on your chances of employment in the field you intend to study or on your chances to obtain federal, state and other higher education financial aid. Some courses within this program require a criminal background study to successfully complete. Please see the course description section of the catalog for more details. Please refer to the Criminal Background section of the catalog for more information on the criminal background study.

Education Program Information Sessions

Interested in learning more about the exciting educational and career opportunities in the Education field? If so, sign up to attend this information session about the Education program here at Inver Hills. You will learn more about our Education Foundations program and Child Care Teacher Certificate.

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Degrees

A.S., Education Foundations - Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle And Secondary School – 60 credits

The A.S. in Educational Foundations prepares students for transfer to a four year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree and subsequent recommendation for teacher licensure. Students may also have the potential to earn an Associate of Arts, if they complete Physical Education (1 credit) & Health (1 credit).

Coursework Program Planning Guide

Education Foundations Curriculum – 20 credits

Course Number	Title	Credits
*Requirements - 9 credits*
EDU 1109	Introduction to Education and Reflective Teaching	4 cr
EDU 1141	Learning Technology for Educators	2 cr
EDU 1143	Multicultural Education/Human Relations	3 cr
*Electives - 11 credits* *Select from the following EDU courses or additional MnTC courses*
EDU 1110	Education: Early Childhood Birth to Grade 3	3 cr
EDU 1128	Guidance, Communication & Development of Young Children	3 cr
EDU 1130	Early Childhood Education	3 cr
EDU 1132	Creative Activities for the Young Child	2 cr
EDU 1136	Infant and Toddler Development	3 cr
EDU 1138	Introduction to Special Education	3 cr
EDU 2008	Introduction to Infant/Child Mental Health	2 cr
EDU 2018	Instructional Strategies for Diverse Learners	3 cr
EDU 2020	Foundations of Early Literacy	3 cr
EDU 2805	Introduction to Children's Literature	3 cr
EDU 2250	Contemporary Education Topics	1-3 cr
MATH 1107	Math Foundations	4 cr
MATH 1118	College Algebra I	4 cr
MUSC 2220	Music Education and Pedagogy	3 cr
HLTH 1130	Drug Use and Abuse	3 cr
Physical Education		1 cr
Health		1 cr
Any additional MnTC credits
Total Credits:		20

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) – 40 credits

The Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) requires a minimum of 40 credits. You must complete the MnTC courses that are specifically designated below, such as ENG 1108 Writing & Research Skills for MnTC Goal Area 1. You may choose the other courses from each goal area from the list located at: www.inverhills.edu/MnTC

To streamline your degree, you are encouraged to choose MnTC Goal 1-6 courses that also meet MnTC Goal areas 7-10. Students should choose courses that best work for their intended transfer college/program.

Goal	Description	Courses
Goal 1	Communication ENG 1108 Writing & Research Skills ENG 1111 OR 1114 OR 1130 COMM 1110 (recommended), COMM 1100 OR COMM 2230	3 courses
Goal 2	Critical Thinking Satisfied by First Year Experience course or MnTC completion
Goal 3	Natural Science (1 course must include lab) Goal 3a (Life Science) course Goal 3b (Physical Sciences) course	2 courses
Goal 4	Mathematical/Logical Reasoning Goal 4 Course (MATH 1107 OR MATH 1118 recommended)	1 course
Goal 5	History/Social Sciences/Behavioral Sciences PSYC 1101 OR 1201 (recommended) PSYC 1215 (recommended) SOC 1100 (recommended)	3 courses
Goal 6	Humanities/Fine Arts/Literature Goal 6a (Fine Arts) course Goal 6b (Humanities/Literature) course Any additional Goal 6 course	3 courses
Goal 7	Human Diversity Goal 7 course	1 course
Goal 8	Global Perspective Goal 8 course	1 course
Goal 9	Ethical and Civic Responsibility Goal 9 course	1 course
Goal 10	People and the Environment Goal 10 course	1 course
Total Credits:		40

Certificates

Child Care Teacher Certificate – 30 credits

Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to obtain employment in early childhood, preschool and child care settings as a child care teacher. Students acquire theory, knowledge, skills and techniques to prepare them for employment. This program helps students confront directly the realities of a career focused on caring for the needs of children. Students explore attitudes, thoughts and feelings as they affect their ability to work effectively with others as an early childhood educator. Direct experience with children and agencies, through internship and class experiences, are essential features of this program.

Coursework Program Planning Guide Program Report

Child Care Curriculum – 17 credits

Course Number	Title	Credits
EDU 1128	Guidance, Communication & Development of Young Children	3 cr
EDU 1133	Children's Health, Nutrition, Physical Development, and the Effects of Drugs	3 cr
EDU 1136	Infant and Toddler Development	3 cr
EDU 1138	Introduction to Special Education	3 cr
HLTH 1127	American Heart Association Heartsaver	1 cr
HSER 1179	Human Services Seminar	1 cr
HSER 1189	Internship	3 cr
Total Credits:		17

Electives – 13 credits

Select from any EDU courses or additional MnTC courses:

Course Number	Title	Credits
EDU 1110	Education: Early Childhood Birth to Grade 3	3 cr
EDU 1130	Early Childhood Education	3 cr
EDU 1132	Creative Activities for the Young Child	2 cr
EDU 2020	Foundations of Early Literacy	3 cr
EDU 2008	Introduction to Infant/Child Mental Health	2 cr
EDU 2805	Introduction to Children's Literature	3 cr
HSER 1123	Family Functions and Interactions	3 cr
HSER 1112	Crisis Assessment and Intervention	3 cr
PSYC 1215	Child and Adolescent Psychology	3 cr
Total Credits:		13

Course Descriptions

EDU 1109 Introduction to Education & Reflective Teaching 4.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1109

Gives prospective educators and school paraprofessionals perspective on the rewards and challenges of teaching, including critical issues facing teaching and learning in today's schools. Class lectures/discussions, course readings, guest speakers, and field experiences will focus on such topics as educational equity, the achievement gap, poverty, diversity, resiliency, cultural awareness, using the community as a resource, effective teaching, school improvement, the importance of engaging in reflective teaching, and opportunities to further explore personal motivations for becoming a teacher. Participants are introduced to education through case studies and first-hand accounts of teaching and learning in schools, including an exploration of the impact that larger social systems have on schools, teachers, and students and their families. In addition to attending the weekly 3-hour class lecture/discussion, students will complete a minimum of 30 Service Learning hours in a school setting. They will also use eFolio Minnesota to create a multimedia electronic portfolio to reflect upon their Service Learning experiences. This course will include completion of MTLE Basic Skills practice tests in Reading, Mathematics, and Writing, in preparation for Minnesota teacher licensure requirements. This course meets the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) 8710.3200, Subp. 3, Standard A2, 3, 8710.2000, Subp. 3, Standard 2C, Subp. 5, Standard 4B, Subp. 6, Standard 5A, 5F, Subp. 10, Standard 9A, Subp. 11, Standard 10A, B, F, L.

EDU 1110 Education: Early Childhood Birth To Grade 3 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1110

Gives students a perspective on teaching at the early childhood through third-grade levels. In addition to attending the weekly 2-hour discussions, students will complete a minimum of 30 Service Learning hours in an early childhood program or elementary school setting. The lecture/discussion groups and guest speakers will focus on such issues as curriculum, Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress, classroom management, various cultures, parent-teacher communication, classroom issues, and technology in the classroom. Prerequisites: Recommended EDU 1109.

EDU 1128 Guidance, Communication and Development of Young Children 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1128

Discusses developmental characteristics of infants, toddlers and preschool children with emphasis on stages of and individual differences in rates and styles of learning. Incorporates guidance principles and techniques in order for students to better understand the child's behavior and improve skills in working with a child in various situations.

EDU 1130 Early Childhood Education 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1130

Provides an opportunity for students to explore the early childhood education field as caregivers of young children. Individuals will explore their role as a practitioner through self-exploration, classroom activities, and group activities.

EDU 1132 Creative Activities for the Young Child 2.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1132

Presents the principles needed to plan creative experiences for infants, toddlers, and young children in all curriculum areas. Creative activities and experiences will be explored that enhance children's social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development. Materials fee required.

EDU 1133 Children's Health, Nutrition, Phys Development, and the Effects of Drugs 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1133

Focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to maintain a safe and healthy environment for young children. Appropriate activities and experiences for young children will be addressed around the topics of health, safety, nutrition, physical development, and the effects of drugs on children.

EDU 1136 Infant and Toddler Development 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1136

Focuses on developing a knowledge base about infant and toddler development emphasizing identification and creation of the learning environment. 40 hours of service learning/field experience required. To complete the requirements of the course students will need to receive a criminal background clearance. Please refer to the Criminal Background section of the catalog for more information on the criminal background study.

EDU 1138 Introduction to Special Education 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1138

Focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to create and maintain an integrated school learning environment for individuals with special needs. An introduction and exploration of disabilities commonly found in infants through school age children. This course meets the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) 8710.2000, Subp. 3, Standard 2D, Subp. 4, Standard 3B, I, O, Q, Subp. 11, Standard 10C 8710.5000, Subp. 2, Standard A1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, D1.

EDU 1141 Learning Technology for Educators 2.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1141

Examines the historical and current contexts for applications of educational technology, including the research, resources, issues and trends shaping the role of educational technology in today's classrooms. Course readings, class discussions, guest speakers, and course assignments will focus on topics such as the foundations for effective technology integration, the National Educational Technology Standards, and the enhancement of teaching and learning through the successful integration of current and future educational technology across the curriculum. Students will investigate and critically evaluate selected software, multimedia/hypermedia, distance/online learning, and Internet/web-based applications as tools to actively and cognitively engage all learners. Students will use eFolio to develop a multimedia electronic portfolio to document and reflect upon their technology competence. This course meets requirements for Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). Prerequisites: Recommended concurrent or previous enrollment in EDU 1109.

EDU 1143 Multicultural Education / Human Relations 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 1143

Emphasizes the development of classroom teachers who are multiculturally informed, gender fair, and disability aware. Examines issues such as racism, sexism, oppression, prejudice and discrimination. The course aims to increase students' capacity to identify, discuss, and reflect on the ethical dimensions of political, social and personal life and to examine the responsibility of classroom teachers to practice productive citizenship. Emphasis is on demonstrating multicultural competence required of all successful teachers working with diverse youth. Designed to meet State of Minnesota human relations requirement for teacher licensure. This course meets the Minnesota Processional Educator Licensing and Standards board (PELSB) 8710.2000, Subp. 5, Standard 4B, Subp. 6, Standard 5A, Subp. 4, Standard 3D, E, F, G, H, J, Q, Subp. 6, Standard 5B, Subp. 7, Standard 6B, Subp. 3, Standard 2A, 2B, 2C.

EDU 2008 Introduction to Infant/Child Mental Health 2.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 2008

Provides an introduction to mental health support and intervention for infants, children, and parents. Class sessions explore features of child mental health and mental health care, from prevalence to causes to effective treatments. Students will have opportunities to examine ways that children's overall development is affected by early relationships and social and emotional influences, including but not limited to attachment, temperament, and toxic stress. Includes a comprehensive review of parenting and community resources to provide knowledge of best practices for those interested in working with infants, young children, and their families.

EDU 2018 Instructional Strategies for Diverse Learners 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 2018

Examines research-based instructional strategies for successfully meeting the varying needs of students from economically, ethnically, culturally, and linguistically diverse groups. Course content will focus on how students will learn and develop including learning opportunities that support student intellectual, social, and personal development. This course will also explore individual and group motivation to create learning environments that create positive social interactive active engagement in learning. Learning opportunities will be explored that support student intellectual, social and personal development. This course is designed for prospective educators, teachers, and school paraprofessionals interested in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds. This course meets the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) 8710.2000, Subp. 3, Standard 2A, B, C Subp.6, Standard 5A.

EDU 2020 Foundations of Early Literacy 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 2020

Focuses on theories and strategies related to literacy in PreK-3 classroom and home settings. Class sessions feature instructional methods to promote early literacy skill development and provide opportunities to learn about concepts of print, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. Includes a review of developmental assessment and evaluation practices. Intended for prospective early childhood or primary teachers, school paraprofessionals, and other educators working with emergent readers.

EDU 2250 Contemporary Education Topics cr

Course Outline for EDU 2250

Special topics in Urban Education will be presented on a rotating basis. Coursework explores issues and challenges currently facing education in the United States. Topics may relate to special education, diversity, gifted and talented programming, English language learners, education funding, legal issues, classroom initiatives, state and local leadership, and others as pertinent to current/future educational trends. This course may be repeated under different topics.

EDU 2805 Introduction to Children's Literature 3.0 cr

Course Outline for EDU 2805

Introduces students to the study and evaluation of literature (picture books, folktales, fantasy, realistic fiction, historical fiction, young adult fiction, and nonfiction) written for children of all ages. Intended for students interested in a teaching career or in working with children, but is open to all interested students. Access to public libraries is required.

Transfer Information

The A.S. in Education Foundations at Inver Hills has articulation agreements with the following four-year institutions:

Winona State University

B.S. Elementary Education with Early Childhood Emphasis (birth–grade 6 licensure)
B.S. K–6 with Middle Level Mathematics (grades K–8 grade licensure)
B.S. K–6 with Middle Level Science (grades K–8 grade licensure)
B.S. K–6 with Middle Level Social Studies (grades K–8 grade licensure)
B.S. K–6 with Middle Level Communication Arts & Literature (grades K–8 grade licensure)

Metropolitan State University

B.S. English Teaching (grades 5–12 licensure)
B.S. Life Science Teaching (grades 5–12 licensure)
B.S. Mathematics Teaching (grades 5–12 licensure)
B.S. Urban Early Childhood Education (birth–grade 3 licensure)
B.S. Urban Elementary Education (preK–grade 6 licensure)

Meet the Faculty

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Student Resource

Advising

Jeremy Clark

Academic Advisor
jeremy.clark@inverhills.edu
651-450-3790
CC-241
Academic Planning Worksheet

Community based learning

Shannon Williams

Community-Based Learning Coordinator
swilliams@inverhills.edu
651-450-3244
CC-208

Criminal Background Study

A background study involves a review of specific records of the person being studied by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Routine background studies include a review of criminal history information maintained by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and records of substantiated maltreatment of vulnerable adults and minors from investigations completed by counties’ adult protection and child protection staff and by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Department of Health. Additional records are also reviewed in some cases. Information related to criminal background studies can be found on the MN Department of Human Services website: https://mn.gov/dhs/general-public/background-studies/.

Some of the educational programs have specific courses that require that a student receive the background study clearance in order to be able to meet course or field/clinical agency requirements. In some instances, the administrator may notify the student that further progression in the educational program is not feasible due to the background check status. Students who enroll in classes that require a background clearance and subsequently do not receive that clearance will not have the opportunity to pass the class and they will not qualify for a refund.

Students enrolled in the Education program and courses will be required to complete a background study and receive background study clearance in order to complete the course.

Students that participate in Field Experience/Community-Based Learning may need to complete a criminal background study. Many of the school districts/community partners with which students work require background studies prior to students serving at their organizations. During your first week of the semester your instructor will inform you of the process for completing the criminal background check, if required in the specific course.

Field Experience

Field Experience Handbook

Application

List of schools for field placement

Financial Aid

There are three financial aid programs available to students majoring in certain areas of education

The federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant requires service as a highly-qualified teacher in a high-need field, in a low-income school. Teaching must be full-time for four years within eight years of completing the program of study.
The Minnesota T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Program is intended to help early childhood and school-age care professionals increase their levels of education, compensation, and commitment to the field.
Minnesota Teacher Shortage Student Loan Repayment Program

Scholarship

Check out Inver Hills Scholarship
Workforce: Contact Aaron Salasek at asalasek@inverhills.edu or call 651-450-3611

Testing and Licensure

Learn about testing and licensure required for teacher licensure.

Transfer information

Click on the Transfer tab above to learn more.

Employment Information

Teaching is one of the most rewarding of all professions. Attitudes have shifted from viewing teaching as a starter job to valuing teaching as a lifelong career. Teachers are gifted with the talent to inspire others to learn. Teachers who teach children take on the responsibility of building foundations that guide lives and future careers.

Elementary Education Job Outlook

According to CAREERwise Education, Minnesota's career, education and job resource, employment in the field of Elementary Education, there will be a need for about 22,609 new Elementary School Teachers to meet market demand between 2016-2026. This includes the demand due to replacement (workers leaving the occupation or retiring) as well as growth. The statewide average salary of an Elementary Teacher is $61,093 / year.

Special Education Job Outlook

According to CAREERwise Education, Minnesota's career, education and job resource, employment in the field of Elementary Special Education is there will be a need for about 3,812 new Kindergarten and Elementary School Special Education Teachers to meet market demand between 2016-2026. The statewide average salary of an Elementary Special Education teacher is $61,214 / year.

According to CAREERwise Education, Minnesota's career, education and job resource, employment in the field of Secondary Education Special Education there will be a need for about 2,668 new High School Special Education Teachers to meet market demand between 2016-2026. This includes the demand due to replacement (workers leaving the occupation or retiring) as well as growth. The statewide average salary of a Secondary Special Education teacher is $62,553 / year.

Child Care Job Outlook

According to CAREERwise Education, Minnesota's career, education and job resource, there will be a need for about 43,922 new Childcare Workers to meet market demand between 2016-2026. This is high demand career. CAREERwise on child care workers: "There is a continuing trend for parents to put their children in day care. There should be an increased demand for Child Care Workers, especially for those who take care of infants."

CAREERwise on preschool teachers: There will be a need for about 8,280 new Preschool Teachers to meet market demand between 2016-2026. This is a very high demand career.

For more information on the current education job opportunities

https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/

Teacher Supply and Demand Report

Center for Career Development and Community-Based Learning

For Job Seekers from DEED

Why Inver Hills?

Completing your A.S. in Education Foundations degree obligations at Inver Hills is smart on several key levels:

Design dynamic classroom learning activities using the latest technology, such as iPads and SmartBoards
Be part of a classroom experience alongside teachers working with young people of many cultures
Get a sneak peak of life as a teacher while preparing for licensure
Experience the joy of creating fun environments for children who are full of life and love learning
Plan activities that enhance a child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development
Design plans to support the health, safety and welfare of children and families
Receive an outstanding education with one-on-one interactions with Teacher Education faculty
Benefit from small class sizes in a program with a statewide reputation for excellence
Save money and continue your academic and professional careers with less student debt *

* On a national scale, student loan debt has mushroomed to $1.2 trillion, which is greater than credit card debt and auto loan debt combined. In Minnesota, the average debt for four-year grads tops $30,000; 70 percent carry a student debt load.

Tuition and fees for one year at Inver Hills costs a little less than $5,300. Compare that to $15,000 to $20,000 at a for-profit college, or $40,000 to $50,000 at a private college or university. You can complete your first two years at Inver getting a topflight education firsthand from Ph.D. instructors and then transfer to a four-year as a junior all while saving thousands of dollars. It's a no-brainer.

Registration & Resources

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