Education: Literacy Studies and Elementary Education (LSEE)

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Department Office
Stevenson 1078
(707) 664-4203
fax: (707) 664 2483
web.sonoma.edu/education/lsee

Department Chair
Paula Lane

For faculty information, please see Faculty  or the Literacy Studies faculty web page.

Programs Offered

• California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (Basic generalist teaching authorization typical for elementary teachers, though also appropriate for middle and high school teachers working in self-contained classrooms, teaching most or all subjects)

• California Reading and Literacy Added Authorization (Tier 1 advanced authorization for teachers pursuing roles working with students who experience difficulties with reading, supporting classroom teachers, and assessing and monitoring student progress)

• Master of Arts in Education with an Emphasis in Reading and Language Education

The Department of Literacy Studies and Elementary Education is committed to meeting the needs of California students in Transitional Kindergarten through upper elementary and beyond through its work with prospective and in-service teachers. Our Multiple Subject Credential Program offers a robust professional preparation for initial licensure. Our Reading Program, grounded in both theory and practice, is designed to meet the needs of teachers at all levels interested in advanced studies in literacy education. Upon completing our practice-based programs, our teacher candidates and teachers will have both breadth and depth of knowledge about teaching and learning and will be capable of making informed decisions in diverse settings.

The University and school districts within our service area view teacher education as a shared responsibility. The diversity of California’s school population including culture, social class, gender, language, and race is a significant focus of our coursework and field experiences. Through coursework, the University provides opportunities to study and investigate sound, research-based approaches to teaching, learning, assessment, and curriculum while our school partners provide the classrooms for field experiences including student teaching. Collaboration between University-based teacher educators and school district teachers provides a strong foundation for the programmatic goal of excellence in the service of California’s students.

Note: Program requirements change periodically, and current information may not be available in this catalog. For more detailed information on credentials and other education programs please see the University’s special bulletins and the School of Education’s current program brochures and policy statements, or visit the Education website.

The Department of Literacy Studies and Elementary Education offers two graduate programs to support in-depth exploration of language development, literacy learning, and teaching. The programs feature hands-on experiences that are immediately applicable in the classroom. Many of our students earn an added state license and a master’s degree simultaneously.

The Reading and Language Program is dedicated to excellence in the preparation of teachers and the on-going professional development of practicing teachers in the areas of bilingual education, and reading and language arts education. Our programs are based on sound educational practice, current research knowledge, sensitivity to the needs of TK-12 education, appreciation for diversity, and respect for all learners.

M.A. in Education programs are designed with both full-time and part-time students in mind. Our master’s degree programs may be taken concurrently with advanced credential programs.

The Department of Literacy Studies and Elementary Education offers graduate programs in reading and literacy including the Master’s degree with an emphasis in reading and literacy; and the Reading and Literacy Added Authorization (RLAA). Many students earn a state license and a master’s degree simultaneously. These programs may be taken individually or candidates may complete the M.A. degree program and the RLAA simultaneously.

Programs

• Education with an Emphasis in Reading and Language, M.A.

• California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

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