EdM in Elementary Education

Initial License in Elementary Education (Grades 1–6)

The Master of Education (EdM) in Elementary Education at BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development supports students in developing a set of pedagogical principles grounded in research on criticality and humanizing pedagogy; an interdisciplinary approach to instruction in grades 1–6; and collaboration through thoughtfully designed coursework and frequent, ongoing opportunities for critical reflection and feedback. Upon acceptance into the program, students will join a supportive learning community of faculty, practitioners, and peers in the program and the college. All students will be assigned an Elementary Education faculty member as an advisor. Advisors provide individualized advising throughout students’ experience at BU Wheelock.

The Elementary Education program is designed for a candidate with a liberal or professional undergraduate degree who seeks licensure as an elementary education teacher. Graduate preservice teacher candidates embark on a rigorous course of study while participating in mentored field experiences. Prior to practicum, students complete a minimum of 120 hours in the field, planning and teaching lessons across the curriculum as well as completing other field-related assignments. In the spring, candidates student-teach for the entire term, assuming major responsibility for designing and implementing effective instruction and assessing children’s learning. The pedagogical courses and classroom experiences are designed to induct preservice teachers into the current research and best practices of each subject area in the elementary curriculum with a strong emphasis on early literacy and foundational skills. This program offers full-time and part-time opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

• Curriculum, Planning, and Assessment: Promotes the learning and growth of all students by providing high-quality and coherent instruction, designing and administering authentic and meaningful student assessments, analyzing student performance and growth data, using this data to improve instruction, providing students with constructive feedback on an ongoing basis, and continuously refining learning objectives (Subject Matter Knowledge; Adjustments to Practice).
• Teaching All Students: Promotes the learning and growth of all students through instructional practices that establish high expectations, create a safe and effective classroom environment, and demonstrate cultural proficiency (High Expectations and Support; Inclusive Instruction; Safe Learning Environment).
• Family and Community Engagement: Promotes the learning and growth of all students through effective partnerships with families, caregivers, community members, and organizations (Collaboration on Student Learning and Well-Being).
• Professional Culture: Promotes the learning and growth of all students through ethical, culturally proficient, skilled, and collaborative practice (Reflective Practice).

Coursework

General Requirements (30 units)

• WED CH 515 Teaching Inclusive Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies with Pre-Practicum (8 units)
• WED LR 551 Introduction to Reading Development, Assessment, and Instruction (4 units)
• WED ME 503 Mathematical Reasoning in the Elementary Grades: Number Systems (4 units)
• WED ME 545 Inclusive Methods of Teaching Math (Elementary) (4 units)
• WED SE 510 Special Education: Curriculum and Instruction (2 units)
• WED SE 580 Instructional Methods for Teaching Foundational Literacy Skills (4 units)
• WED TL 520 Teaching English Language Learners (4 units)

Supervised Field Experiences (6 units)

• WED CH 655 Student-Teaching Practicum: Elementary 1–6 (6 units)

Coursework for EdM—Dual Degree and Licensure in Elementary Education and Special Education (52 units)

General Requirements (40 units)

• WED CH 515 Teaching Inclusive Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies with Pre-Practicum (8 units)
• WED LR 551 Introduction to Reading Development, Assessment, and Instruction (4 units)
• WED ME 503 Mathematical Reasoning in the Elementary Grades: Number Systems (4 units)
• WED ME 545 Inclusive Methods of Teaching Math (Elementary) (4 units)
• WED SE 515 Assessment and Eligibility in Special Education (2 units)
• WED SE 572 Culturally Relevant Approaches to Positive Behavioral Supports (4 units)
• WED SE 580 Instructional Methods for Teaching Foundational Literacy Skills (4 units)
• WED SE 601 Collaborative Approaches to Individualized Educational Programming (2 units)
• WED SE 706 Disability, Education, & Society (4 units)
• WED TL 520 Teaching English Language Learners (4 units)

Supervised Field Experiences (12 units)

• WED CH 655 Student-Teaching Practicum: Elementary 1–6 (6 units)
• WED SE 593 Practicum: Moderate Disabilities Licensure Tracks (6 units)