This program is for people who are interested in pursuing teaching as a career choice or who are interested in schooling and equity. An introduction to theories of learning, language acquisition and child development is the focus of fall quarter. The guiding question for the quarter is: What is the role of development in the learning process?

During winter quarter, we will investigate the relationships of learning, schooling and diversity. Students will select a particular model of schooling (e.g., home-schooling, public school, Waldorf, Sudbury); research its origins, beliefs about learning, development and teaching practices; and then complete an analysis of which groups of learners these structures serve and why. Students in this program can expect to use writing as a tool for learning; to develop a research-based understanding of child development; to investigate the historical, sociocultural and organizational contexts of schools; and to develop skills in formulating and pursuing a research question, analyzing schooling practices and making public presentations.

Throughout the program, we will be concerned with the politics and economics of schools and schooling. We will address school governance and finance, particularly as these topics relate to issues of equity and diversity.

Program activities will include interactive lectures and workshops, seminars, weekly writing, small group investigations and a long-term project exploring and critiquing a particular approach to schooling. Participants' work in the program will be assessed through written papers, participation in all activities, projects and a final portfolio.