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Education Program Conceptual Framework
Vincennes University
envisions teaching as the "bridge" to connect students' learning to serving
communities.
It is our firm belief that if strong and supportive teaching is accessible, learning will result. In turn, successful learning experiences will become evident when learners serve others. Philosophy Statement
The philosophy of the Education faculty is based upon the shared vision of providing
Vincennes University
teacher candidates the highest quality teacher preparation program. The bridge in the
programmatic theme illustration exemplifies the faculty’s philosophy. The supports of the
bridge represent the five guiding principles upon which the curriculum is based. Teacher
candidates from Vincennes University
will possess the following: (1) content knowledge and pedagogy, (2) proficiency in managing
and monitoring classrooms, (3) systematically reflecting upon their practice, (4) participating in
learning communities, and (5) using technology to enhance student learning. Faculty members
present teacher candidates with the knowledge and skills they will need to be successful in the
teaching profession and guide them as they begin to establish their own professional
identities. Faculty also link teacher candidates’ learning -- the acquisition of
knowledge, skills, and dispositions -- with the services they ultimately will provide to their
communities as education professionals.
The Vision
United as a learning community, we challenge our students and ourselves to the ideals of
learning, teaching, and serving. We envision a community of scholars who will learn with
enthusiasm, teach with wisdom, and serve with commitment.
The
Mission
Teacher education at Vincennes University provides the highest quality preparation for teacher candidates so they will learn, teach, and be of service to others. Entering the third century as an institution of higher education, our teaching candidates are knowledgeable, skillful, and caring professionals who embrace and support diversity and enable all students to learn.
Goal Statement
The comprehensive goal of the faculty of the Vincennes University Education program is to
give all students the opportunity to learn in order to serve others in their communities. The
faculty recognizes the importance of providing VU students with an environment in which they are
encouraged to ask questions, seek answers, and take risks. You will be instructed by
professionals in the field of education who will provide you with research-based, best practices in
education.
Field-based experiences will allow you multiple opportunities to observe and participate in a
variety of settings and become familiar with a variety of educational environments.
The specific goals of the Education Program are to:
Guiding Principles of the Teacher Education Program
The following five guiding principles represent the conceptual framework of the Education programs at Vincennes University: 1. Teacher candidates possess content knowledge and pedagogy
Teacher candidates exhibit thorough, in-depth content knowledge and are able to identify the
central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of their disciplines. Additionally, teacher
candidates show an awareness of the interrelatedness of this knowledge by demonstrating the
application of content to real life experiences of their students. Effectual teaching requires
that teacher candidates are well-informed regarding the philosophical, historical, social, and
cultural contexts in which education has developed. Using this knowledge, teacher candidates
can make sound educational decisions within their classrooms. Further, successful teacher
candidates implement research-based curriculum and instruction and utilize motivational and
specialized strategies consistent with the developmental levels and learning characteristics
exhibited by their students. Teacher candidates also are able to access and use technology to
support, enhance, and motivate student learning. Finally, teacher candidates understand and
employ multiple means of assessment to evaluate student learning and to make informed educational
decisions.
2. Teacher candidates demonstrate proficiency in managing and monitoring classrooms
Teacher candidates recognize that classroom management includes all of the things that
teachers do to foster student engagement in classroom activities and establish positive learning
environments. Teacher candidates understand the critical relationship between classroom
management and student behaviors. They are proactive in employing a variety of strategies to
engage students and prevent problematic behavior. Teacher candidates recognize that
constructive communication and social interactions between teachers and students have a positive
influence on learning and behavior. They acknowledge that they must assume the responsibility
for creating a caring, cohesive, and nurturing classroom community where all students feel safe,
respected, and valued. Academic achievement cannot be attained unless students learn to care
about others and believe that others care about them as well.
3. Teacher candidates systematically reflect about their practice.
Reflection allows teacher candidates to examine the effects of what they do on those they
serve. Continuous thinking about one’s own teaching will lead to improvements in both teaching
and learning. Successful teacher candidates understand and use assessment to evaluate and
ensure the intellectual, social, and physical development of the student. Further, reflective
teacher candidates are aware of and question the assumptions and values they bring into the
classroom. They continually examine their responses, feelings, assumptions, and values as they
interact with their students, their colleagues, and their organizations. As they reflect on
what they are learning and doing, they acquire the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to
assume responsibility for positive learning outcomes in class. Finally, reflective teacher
candidates commit to a lifelong process of learning and model this process so that their students
also will engage in lifelong learning.
4. Teacher candidates participate in learning communities.
Teacher candidates have the skills to participate effectively in collaborative activities
with professionals and paraprofessionals, community entities, and parents and families of their
students. The movement toward inclusive education has increased the necessity of increased
collaboration among professionals within the school community. Teacher candidates understand
the critical nature of establishing professional relationships and working as team
members. Further, the development of partnerships between schools and other agencies or
institutions has become increasingly necessary in the field of education. As schools attempt
to meet the diverse needs of their students, teachers often must seek expertise across
institutional boundaries. Effective teacher candidates also recognize that the partnership
between school and home is central to optimal educational outcomes for students. Therefore,
teacher candidates seek opportunities to connect with the parents and families of their
students. Lastly, the community is a potential source of learning and support. To
emphasize the importance of the reciprocal relationship between schools and the community, teacher
candidates are presented with multiple opportunities to participate in service learning
projects.
5. Teacher candidates use technology to enhance student learning.
Advances in technology have opened alternate venues for the delivery of instruction and
educational services. Effective teacher candidates stay abreast of these advances and employ
them in ways that promote learning and motivation in their students. Teacher candidates
develop competency in the use of computers so that they can enhance the classroom curriculum by
planning technology-rich instruction, selecting and using educational software, incorporating world
wide web resources, and integrating technology in the content areas. In addition, students not
only learn from technology, they learn with technology. The potential of technology,
specifically assistive technology, has long been recognized in the special education and
rehabilitation communities. The application of assistive technology can facilitate learning,
independence, inclusion, productivity, and overall quality of life for individuals with
disabilities. For school-age students, the application of assistive technology may determine
the difference between successful and unsuccessful inclusive education experiences.
Teacher candidates are expected to be proactive leaders for the integration of
technology in schools and to use technology as a tool to make connections to the communities they
serve. Lastly, teacher candidates understand how decisions and actions using technology can be
used to promote the common good and to reduce social inequities by designing engaging technology
learning experiences for students of various gender, ethnic, ability, and language
backgrounds.
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- Kotter recertified as collegiate retailer
- VU Christmas Gala Concert is Dec. 2
- Lady Trailblazers 10th, Trailblazers 25th in NJCAA’s 1st hoops polls of season
- Former VU Blazer Baseball Player Jason Clutter Making Way in Music
- WVUB radio receives state Community Involvement Award
- H1N1 vaccination clinic for VU students is Nov. 23
- VU Health Watch Wednesday Continues
Kotter recertified as collegiate retailer
November 20, 2009
VINCENNES, IND. - Ronald L. Kotter, manager of Vincennes University’s Old Post Bookstore, recently completed the requirements to renew his Certified Collegiate Retailer (CCR) designation through the National Association of College Stores. The CCR designation indicates skillful leadership, stewardship, and expertise in college store operations.
In addition to Kotter’s career experience in collegiate retailing, CCR designees must successfully complete a comprehensive examination that tests their fundamental knowledge of all areas of the collegiate retailing profession and their ability to apply that knowledge. To successfully recertify for the designation, individuals complete a minimum of 60 hours of continuing education and professional development in the four years since initially earning the designation or from the date of the last renewal, as applicable.
More than 100 collegiate retailers have earned the CCR designation since its launch in fall 2004.
About NACS
Headquartered in Oberlin, Ohio, the National Association of College Stores is the professional trade association representing the $11 billion collegiate retailing industry. NACS represents more than 3,100 collegiate retailers and approximately 1,100 associate members who supply books and other products to college stores. NACS member stores daily serve America’s college students while supporting the academic missions of higher education institutions everywhere. Additional information is available online at www.nacs.org.
VU Christmas Gala Concert is Dec. 2
November 20, 2009
VINCENNES, IND. - The Vincennes University Music Department will present a Christmas Gala Concert on Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. EST, in the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center Theatre. The concert is free and the public is invited to attend.
The concert will showcase various Christmas songs in a variety of musical styles. Featured groups include the VU Connection, Concert Band, Concert Choir, Brass Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, String Ensemble, Blues Ensemble, performances by VU faculty members, and more.
For more information, please contact Duane Chattin, Director of Public Information, at 812-888-4164 or dchattin@vinu.edu
Lady Trailblazers 10th, Trailblazers 25th in NJCAA’s 1st hoops polls of season
November 18, 2009
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Vincennes Lady Trailblazers are No. 10 in the NJCAA's first Div. I Women's Basketball Poll of the season, which was released today.
The VU men were in a tie for 25th in the initial poll announced late Tuesday afternoon.
The 7-0 Lady Trailblazers had been ranked No. 13 in the pre-season poll. Gulf Coast - host of this weekend's Gulf Coast Classic in Panama City, Fla, in which the Lady Trailblazers will participate – tops the first regular-season poll. VU, after beating No. 14 Lincoln Trail 69-64 Tuesday, faces Gulf Coast Saturday, after taking on No. 22 Chipola on the tournament's first day.
Each of the event’s games will be carried live on the Gulf Coast Sports Network. The broadcasts can be heard by visiting the Gulf Coast Athletics Web site at www.gcathletics.com.
The Vincennes Trailblazers, 6-1 on the season, share the 25th slot in the rankings with the College of Southern Idaho. Central Florida Community College is the top-ranked team in the first poll. The Trailblazers defeated Lincoln Trail (ranked No. 23 in the first poll) 81-77 Tuesday night.
VU will host Southeastern Illinois at 7 p.m. Saturday at the P.E. Complex.
Former VU Blazer Baseball Player Jason Clutter Making Way in Music
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Jason Clutter's family moved from Elberfeld to Haubstadt when he was 10 and he discovered sports, especially baseball. He loved it so much that he worked hard enough to turn his God-given talent into a scholarship to pitch and play outfield at Vincennes University.
Clutter graduated in 2002 as one of the NJCAA's top closers and holding a degree in graphic design. He moved on to Oakland City and then spent part of summer 2003 in Italy playing baseball. Unfortunately, his shoulder gave out during his senior year with the Oaks and he would never play baseball again.
So Clutter looked to his other passion - country music, which until that time had been a way to pass time on baseball road trips. “I would sing on the bus on road trips during college and the team would join in," he said.
Music certainly became more than a hobby when Clutter started a local band and recorded seven original songs, two of which got fairly heavy play on Evansville market radio for almost two years. The band quickly grew from playing in front of about 20 people to crowds of about 200 per night.
Clutter has opened for 13 national acts and hopes to complete a new album for release in 2010.
**For more information, visit wwww.jasonclutter.com.
WVUB radio receives state Community Involvement Award
November 19, 2009
VINCENNES, IND. - Vincennes University radio station Blazer 91.1 WVUB is the recipient of the “Community Involvement” award from the Indiana Broadcasters Association. The award was presented Nov. 14 during the annual Spectrum Awards ceremonies in Indianapolis.
“I am very honored to have received this award for two reasons,” said Phillip Smith, general manager of WVUB. “We were very happy to have been selected as Radio Station of the Year last year. But this award has even more meaning. This is recognition of service to our community. Actually being concerned and involved in local events and activities is what broadcasting is all about, and being honored for that by your peers is the highest form of recognition. Secondly, both VU and the VU Broadcasting Department were recognized and highlighted by broadcasters from throughout the state.”
According to the Indiana Broadcasters Association, the Spectrum Award recognizes broadcast excellence for outstanding achievement in broadcasting by radio and television stations throughout Indiana. The competition was established to encourage the highest standards of reporting, community service, and production creativity. It is the ultimate peer recognition for members of the broadcast industry in Indiana.
“When I travel throughout the state, I frequently encounter graduates of VU’s broadcasting program and they always speak highly of their preparation at VU. Giving students the opportunity to be involved with award-winning stations such as WVUB is an important part of why our graduates achieve great success in this field. I commend everyone associated with WVUB on receiving this honor,” said VU President Dick Helton.
WVUB Program Director Michael Woods said the award is a motivator for the station’s staff. “The trophy shows the dedication of our staff and the acceptance of our listeners. We promise not to let up, but to continue to deliver quality programming for the people of the Wabash valley.”
VU BROADCASTING
The VU Broadcasting Department prepares students for successful entry into radio, television, and allied career fields while earning a college degree. The program emphasizes hands-on, real-world experience for students, including many hours in VU broadcast studios and stations perfecting both on-air and behind-the-scenes technical skills. VU’s public broadcast stations, WVUB and WVUT-TV, are the only ones in Indiana that are part of an academic broadcast program.
VINCENNES UNIVERSITY - Indiana’s First College
VU is state-supported with campuses in Vincennes and Jasper and additional sites such as the Indianapolis International Airport. VU also offers instruction at military sites throughout the nation.
In addition to offering 200 associate degree and certificate programs, VU also offers bachelor’s degree programs in technology, homeland security, nursing, and secondary education programs in mathematics, science, and special education.
VU enrolls students from throughout Indiana, 26 other states, and 37 foreign countries. Tuition and fees are the lowest among Indiana campuses with residence halls. VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Founded in 1801, VU is Indiana’s first college and is the only college in the nation founded by an individual who would later become President of the United States. William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. President, founded VU while serving as governor of the Indiana Territory. More information is available at www.vinu.edu.
H1N1 vaccination clinic for VU students is Nov. 23
November 19, 2009
VINCENNES, IND. - An H1N1 vaccination clinic will be offered to Vincennes University students on Nov. 23 from 5:00-7:00 PM EST (or until all vaccine is given) in VU’s Beckes Student Union, Fort Sackville Room 1.
“We have a limited number of vaccinations and we must follow the priority guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control and the Indiana State Board of Health for administration of the vaccine. We will be offering additional H1N1 vaccination clinics as soon as we receive additional doses from the County Board of Health,” said Peggy Milligan, coordinator of the VU Student Health Center.
Recommended initial priority groups include: pregnant women, household/caregivers of babies under 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons aged 6 months to 24 years, persons aged 25-64 who have high-risk medical conditions.
VU Health Watch Wednesday Continues
VU Health Watch Wednesday began with two e-text messages that provided H1N1 wellness tips and reminded subscribers to visit the VU Health Office web page.
Updates will be posted each Wednesday (or sooner if the situation warrants). The webpage includes links to the Center for Disease Control flu pages, preventative tips, and campus information.