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Our Conceptual Framework

A Tradition of Caring: Informed Professionals Promoting Student Success and Excellent Practice in Education

Themes and Associated Learning Outcomes

teacher writing on chalkboard

Focus on Student Learning

Respect of cultures, values, beliefs and talents of all persons
Recognition that self-esteem influences achievement
Value of cultural dimensions of communication
Understanding how learning occurs

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- Incorporate an understanding of social context, cognitive and psychological development, and professional ethics into their practice.
- Understand human diversity and design activities and experiences which develop individual strengths.
- Foster a climate conducive to inquiry, achievement and active construction of knowledge.
- Communicate effectively to diverse audiences through a variety of mediums, including technology.
- Create environments that promote active discourse and interaction among participants.

Scholarship

Content and pedagogical knowledge grounded in the arts and sciences.
Interactive models of teaching that engage all learners and encourage active learning in a scholarly environment.
Recognition that careers in education require a lifelong process of scholarly learning.

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- Apply knowledge and skills attained through rigorous content and pedagogical study
- Experience and apply varied instructional strategies as an essential component of practice in each discipline.
- Develop a commitment to scholarship and continue to expand knowledge and facility in their respective fields of study.

Informed and Reflective Practice

Clear communication of knowledge so that others can learn.
Application of pedagogical theory to diverse educational settings.
Appreciation of the use of technology as a tool for learning and communication.
Informed decision making.
Quality performance through critically examined practice.

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- Connect knowledge with an understanding of how content learning occurs.
- Demonstrate skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving and leadership in a variety of professional settings.
- Employ skills in technology to promote inquiry and effective practice.
- Draw upon experience, research and knowledge of best practice to make professional decisions.
- Strive to refine and improve practice through continuous reflection and assessment.
- Base decisions and actions on professional and ethical judgment.

Professional Collaboration and Development

Knowledge of schools as social and political systems.
Establishment of productive relationships with parents, educators, and other members of the community.
Commitment to teaching, learning and service through participation in professional development.
Appreciation of the magnitude of responsibility for education professionals.

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- Understand that schools are organizations within a larger community and recognize that the community influences schools and education.
- Collaborate with others as members of learning communities to promote educational excellence and to bring about necessary change.
- Pursue knowledge through professional development and demonstrate excellence and enthusiasm for teaching, learning and service.