Program Information
The UH West O‘ahu Bachelor of Education degree with a concentration in Elementary Education prepares highly qualified teachers with knowledge and skills that support standards-based education, student-centered teaching and learning, and an orientation to social justice. Studies encompass an innovative, field-based teacher preparation program, as well as public service activities that support West O‘ahu communities.
Students participate in over 200 hours of field-based coursework, ranging from the early field experience, to service learning, and through four, developmentally delivered methods courses. The program culminates in a 15-week, full-time professional student teaching semester. Field placements occur at elementary schools in Central, Leeward, and Windward O‘ahu. Graduates are recommended by UH West O‘ahu for Elementary Education (K-6) teaching licensure by the State of Hawai‘i. Courses are taught in-class and through distance learning instruction.
Careers & Earning Potential
Teaching is a rewarding career that provides benefits and job security in an era of teacher shortages across the United States. Teachers often continue their professional development via graduate programs in education, including master’s and doctorate degree programs in curriculum and instruction or specialized fields in literacy, special education, and English language learners. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for elementary school teachers is $52,240. The Hawai‘i State Department of Education reported the starting salary for teachers as $43,157 for the 2008-2009 school year.
Graduates find teaching positions in public and private schools; coordinate education programs for public and private sectors, such as museums, libraries, YMCA, and community centers; and serve as consultants to industries. Once licensed in Hawai‘i, Elementary Education classroom teachers may seek reciprocal certification in all states, as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam.
Featured Courses
EDEE 200/201 Introduction to Teaching as a Career and Early Field Experience
These courses examine the process of becoming a highly qualified teacher in the State of Hawai‘i. The Early Field Experience places teacher candidates in an elementary school classroom for a minimum of 45 hours, under the guidance of a mentor teacher.
EDEE 310 Education in a Global Society
This course examines historical, political, philosophical, sociological, and ethical factors influencing education in today’s global society. Particular emphasis is placed on contemporary problems and applications in the context of service to the local community. Students complete 20 hours of volunteer work, utilizing cultural and scientific community resources.
EDEE 415 Teaching Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners
This course provides an in-depth awareness of methods for English language learners. Students examine accommodative instructional methods, research program models, learn second language acquisition and readiness theories, as well as put in to practice various differentiated instructional strategies for culturally and linguistically diverse learners.
EDEE 492 Student Teaching Seminar: Ethics Focus
This course examines current issues in education, including contemporary ethical issues and fulfills the Ethics (E-focus) graduation requirement. Teacher candidates study further educational foundations, classroom organization and management, and disciplinary methods applied to classroom teaching and learning.
Field Experience
As part of the curriculum, UH West O‘ahu Elementary Education students participate in student teaching opportunities with mentor teachers at area schools including:
• Holomua Elementary School
• Wai‘anae Elementary School
• Makaha Elementary School
• Pearl City Elementary School
• Manana Elementary School
• Mililani ‘Ike Elementary School
• Mililani Mauka Elementary School
• Ahuimanu Elementary School
• Keolu Elementary School
Student Club
The UH West O‘ahu Education Club is a wonderful opportunity for students to gain an even greater understanding of the education field and participate in community service projects, workshops, social activities and more. The club supports literacy causes and raises monetary and book donations that benefit lending libraries and local area elementary schools.
Faculty Contact
Dr. Mary Heller, Professor
(808) 454-4727
mfheller@hawaii.edu
Click here for additional information
