Vision:
The intent of the College of Education is to provide learning opportunities that place students atthe center of their own learning. To achieve this, the College provides students with richintellectual learning experiences characterized by choice. The intent is to produce, place, andsustain well-prepared educators capable of making decisions and crafting rich educationalexperiences for students in their charge. These competent professional educators will have boththe knowledge base and experiences to participate fully in creating educational systems thatrespond fully to the needs of citizens in diverse situations, including the metropolitan communitywe serve.
Mission:
The mission of the College of Education is to develop highly skilled, knowledgeable, andcreative teachers and other educational leaders through high quality undergraduate, graduate andprofessional development programs. These programs are grounded in professional standards ofexcellence and contemporary research reflecting experimentation, innovation, accountability andinformed by the wisdom of professional practice. The College of Education is committed tocontinuous improvement through assessment, inquiry, reflection, and lifelong learning. TheCollege’s mission is consistent with the University’s student centered mission that promotesintegrated learning, discovery and engagement, celebration of human diversity, a disposition ofrespect for individuals, freedom of expression, and community engagement.
Strategic Direction:
A Learning Community for the Future: Strategic Directions (September 2004) is the result of approximately two years of study (internal and external environmental scan) and discussions by the faculty. This strategic plan has a foundational philosophical underpinning that is exemplified in the college’s vision statement and contains five major strategies: a learning-centered paradigm; engagement; diversity; assessment and evaluation; and technology. The College recognizes that a paradigm shift is occurring in every aspect of society and that education especially has experienced numerous shifts in public expectations. As the role of educational leadership expands, this strategic plan embraces the development of teachers and leaders committed to the enrichment of the learning environment of their schools, districts, agencies, and College of Education March 2005 workplaces. Accordingly, the College of Education is in the process of replacing its teacher- or faculty- centered model of education with a learning-centered paradigm. The College will actively engage the community to build responsive community partnerships to ensure integrated service, research, and learning. The College of Education will continue to embrace and celebrate the diversity of its learning community. In particular, it is committed to achieve greater representation of faculty, staff, and students of color within the College. Assessment and Evaluation will ensure that the College meets and exceeds standards as it positions itself on the path to become a great college of education.
