May 02, 2024  
2022-2023 General Catalog 
    
2022-2023 General Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Education: Literacy Studies and Elementary Education (LSEE)


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Schulz Library: Education Suite

http://education.sonoma.edu/departments/lsee

Department Chair
Rhianna Henry Casesa, PhD

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 (RLAA)- (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)

California Added Bilingual Authorization (BILA) in Spanish (Added Authorization for teachers who are proficient in English and Spanish and who want to work in bilingual/ dual-language/dual-immersion settings, tk-12. This is an added authorization that can be pursued concurrently with a multiple subject, single subject, or special education credential. It can also be pursued after the preliminary credential has been obtained.)


Master of Arts in Education with an Emphasis in Reading and Language Education (Graduate degree for tk-12 grade teachers who seek advanced understanding in literacy & language education, biliteracy, assessment and teaching, and curriculum development. Many teachers in the reading and language emphasis within the MA program become reading intervention teachers, curriculum specialists, literacy coaches, etc.)

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 Teaching Credential Program offers a robust professional preparation for initial licensure. Our RLAA and Reading concentration within the MA (Education) Program, grounded in both theory and practice, are designed to meet the needs of teachers at all levels interested in advanced studies in literacy education. Our added bilingual authorization (BILA) program focuses upon the research, theory, and practice related to working with emergent bilinguals and dual-language learners in both English and Spanish. 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. Some of our students earn an added state license and go on to pursue a master’s degree either immediately or shortly thereafter. The MA degree and the RLAA may be pursued concurrently.

The Reading and Language Added Authorization is dedicated to excellence in the preparation of teachers and the on-going professional development of practicing teachers in the areas of bilingual/dual-language 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 the RLAA.

Programs

    MastersCredentialAdded Authorization

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