EDCI 1102 101: Intro to Teaching Profession

Acronyms to Recognize and Foundations to Teaching in Texas

1. BTLPT Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test, Spanish  
2. CCRS College and Career Readiness Standards, Texas (see TCCRS)  
3. PPR Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities Standards (EC-Grade 12)  
4. T-CERT (TExES Certification Exam Review for Teachers) The purpose of this website is to help teacher candidates, novice teachers, and experienced teachers pass TExES (Texas Examination of Educator Standards) exams. The Texas A&M University System and the Texas Education Agency have teamed up to provide this test preparation site.  
5. TCCRS Texas College and Career Readiness Standards
6. TEA Texas Education Agency  
7. TEKS Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills state standards for what students should know and be able to do. The State Board of Education (SBOE) has legislative authority to adopt the TEKS for each subject of the required curriculum.

Submission of Assignments. Assignments are DUE at the time designated in any announcement/syllabus/assignment instruction. The opportunity to submit your assignment early is welcomed once the dropbox is available. For most assignments, you will be able to resubmit your assignment if the dropbox is still available. There is a grace period for most assignments, which includes a window of time after the set deadline to submit your assignment to account for any unforeseen issues. The dropbox will close once the grace period has closed. (For example, the deadline is set for Friday at 11:59 PM and the grade period ends Saturday at 12 PM). Assignments not submitted by that time are given a zero (0). Arrangements can be made for extenuating circumstances prior to the due date. Any technical maintenance processes happening thru OIT during the due date is not an excuse. Make arrangements to submit beforehand. 

The policy at TAMIU for absences and make-up work will be followed. No work will be made-up unless you have an excusable absence that is submitted in a timely manner as stated in TAMIU policy and approved by the instructor. Once approval is given, arrangements can be made to make-up and submit the work by the given deadline. Any work submitted after the due date and not approved by the instructor remains a zero (0). No assignments will be accepted after the last day of the semester. (see Attendance, Engagement, and Professional Expectations in COE Undergraduate Policies and Class Attendance under Course Policies).

Please be aware that this course is not self-paced. Students are expected to meet specific deadlines and due dates provided in the LMS for each week. It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of the weekly course schedule of topics, readings, activities and assignments due.

APA. All assignments will follow the APA 7th edition student paper format. It is the student’s responsibility to view all resources provided by the instructor in Blackboard and research the information. The expectation is not to memorize the format, but to use the references to guide your formatting and citation requirements as needed. Points will be deducted for improper use in all assignments. Not using in-text citations or not listing references is considered plagiarism and will be affect your grade.

In addition, be extremely mindful of your writing, the sources you use, and the format for citations and references. Plagiarism can occur even if not intentional for lack of correct citation of sources. Use the resources provided to you in Blackboard and rely on them for every assignment. Your grade can be affected and well as further disciplinary action (see TAMIU Honor Code:  Plagiarism and Cheating under University Course Policies and Academic Integrity in the COE Undergraduate Policies).

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has existed for quite some time and within many of the ongoing apps and systems you already use such as Blackboard, Echo360, and Grammarly. However, since the end of 2022, there have been many generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) tools emerge for various functions whether writing, conversing, video editing, drawing, summarizing, or other functions. Based on data and surveys conducted, the trajectory of using any type of AI will be a vital skill for future careers. As future educators, you will need to know about AI tools for teaching, learning, and assessing. In this course, students will learn about AI and explore various Gen AI apps that will facilitate administrative tasks and student learning. Some sample activities or tasks may include (not limited to these)

• Developing an outline for an essay

• Creating a rough draft or brainstorming ideas for an essay

• Assistance in grammar check or other writing conventions

• Drafting research or other questions for an essay

• Developing essential, higher order questions or drafting in class activities

• Developing a rubric

• Comparing different lesson plan drafts

• Assistance in any of the formal, submitted, graded written assignments listed in for this course

For the course, students are encouraged to use Gen AI tools (i.e. LLMs like ChatGPT) for a variety of assignments in limited form. There are few key ideas to emphasize:

• Academic Integrity is a core value at this university that must be upheld even when using Gen AI tools.

• The use of Gen AI is to assist or enhance assignments that are primarily created by the student. It will NOT be used to created the entire assignment.

• The use of Gen AI by a student indicates it was not created by the student; therefore, any instance of Gen AI requires a citation in any formal submitted assignment.

• AI of any type will not be used for selected-response assessments or other quizzes. No cheating.

More information will be provided during the course on proper citation format and other guidelines. NOT citing Gen AI properly by the student in any formal, submitted assignment or assessment constitutes a violation of the TAMIU Honor Code and will be reported to the Honor Council with potential consequences. (see TAMIU Honor Code:  Plagiarism and Cheating under University Course Policies and Academic Integrity in the COE Undergraduate Policies).

Participation, Attendance, Late Arrivals, and Early Departures. Please refer to Student Absences under University Course Policies at the end. TAMIU’s policy on attendance will be used in this course. Attendance will be recorded in Blackboard. The policy at TAMIU for absences and make-up work will be followed. No work will be made-up unless you have an excusable absence that is submitted in a timely manner as stated in TAMIU policy and approved by the instructor.

Please refer to Student Absences under University Course Policies at the end. TAMIU’s policy on attendance will be used in this course. Attendance will be recorded in Blackboard. The policy at TAMIU for absences and make-up work will be followed. No work will be made-up unless you have an excusable absence that is submitted in a timely manner as stated in TAMIU policy and approved by the instructor.

Students are expected to attend every scheduled class meeting. Be prompt. Students are expected to have read the material assigned BEFORE class time and be prepared to participate in all class activities and discussions. You must show evidence that you have prepared for class by actively participating in discussions, expressing your opinions, sharing your knowledge and experiences, raising important issues, and formulating questions. You must keep organized and submit assignments on-time. It is of import to note: there is substantial ongoing in-class participation that is an integral part of this course and course grades. It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of those days. Changes to the due dates may occur if there are unforeseen circumstances (ie. pandemic of COVID-19); the instructor will modify to student needs/new schedule.  

As future educators and professionals, you must be present every class meeting, be on time to every class and scheduled meeting, and stay for the entirety of the course. Roll call will begin promptly at the class start time. Early departures will affect your class participation in any activity/grade. This means you may get a reduction of points or a zero. If you must leave early, you will need to email me BEFORE the day of class to inform the instructor and if it constitutes a make-up.

To receive points/grade for any in-class activities, you must be present in class/in person – no virtual, phone, or other means of communication will be allowed. (For example, you were texting your group or on the phone helping your group will not count toward your grade on the assignment). Only a valid excuse will be taken into consideration for makeup assignments. (see Attendance, Engagement, and Professional Expectations under COE Undergraduate Policies)

**NOTE: Final Exams are posted and scheduled thru TAMIU registrar’s office. The exam date is listed in the schedule below. Make arrangements now to be available for the exam in person. There will be no exceptions to the final exam date and time. ONLY documented accommodations with the Student Disability Services will be honored. The instructor will determine if any unforeseen emergency is honored/acceptable with documentation provided. You must be present for the date and time of the final exam. If you cannot make it or are absent, you will not take the test and receive a zero (0).

BlackBoard. All assignments will be submitted exclusively through Blackboard. If you have issues with submission, contact OIT for assistance (information at the end of the syllabus). Ensure you have received confirmation of your submission or I will not see the assignment, and no credit can be provided. I do send a notification that I am not able to view, open, or otherwise grade an assignment. It is your responsibility to check your email for any notification and proceed with correcting the issue. It is the student’s responsibility to frequently login to Blackboard to check folders, course information, announcements, and read assignment instructions. Announcements will always be posted in the announcement area and emailed to you. You can attend trainings by TAMIU’s OIT for further support on Blackboard.  

Respondus LockDown Browser Requirement. This course requires the use of LockDown Browser and Monitor for online exams. Respondus Monitor carries a fee. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser. A student Quick Start Guide (PDF) is also available. For more information, visit the TAMIU OIT Respondus website. More information will be available through Blackboard. You may use an iPad and Google Chromebook with Respondus. Other software may be used such as Proctorio depending on device or availability.

DuoMobile. As a member of the A&M system, you are required to use a two-factor authentication when using any app used by A&M to safeguard your identity. Issues with DuoMobile are the responsibility of the student. Lack of access does not constitute an excuse to not complete assignments. The student must still meet the deadlines accordingly.

Communication. Communication of instructions, announcements, and other reminders will be conducted in person, posted on Blackboard announcements, and sent through email. Responses to questions or concerns will be provided within 24 hours during weekdays and within 48 hours over the weekend. If you need to communicate with me, please follow the student hours to stop by, meet virtually, or email me to schedule an appointment. Blackboard messages will not be used for this course.

Additionally, if unforeseen circumstances arise where we need to change from F2F or in-person, the use of Blackboard Collaborate and Google Voice will also be used for virtual meetings or text messaging. Keep communication open. Please refer to UConnect, TAMIU Email, and Dusty Alert under College of Education Policies. 

Student Hours. Students may at times need additional instructor support or would like to visit and discuss other related topics. Students should schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss course related requirements such as grades, assignments, progress, other requirements. Likewise, you may visit to discuss career advice, student success and progress in general, or educational interests such as technology. You may walk-in during student hours or join remotely. If you are not able to meet with me during student hours, email me to schedule an appointment with suggested dates/times.

Classroom and Online Etiquette. Please refer to Classroom Behavior under University Course Policies at the end. Additionally, exercise positive and effective communicative skills when engaging online and in person. Students must be mindful of the language, tone, and academic responses e-mailed or posted when communicating with the professor or with other students. Students may not copy, distribute, or share any course images, assignments, guides, or recordings including recorded lectures (if any) without the explicit written permission of the instructor. This is considered a violation of copyright infringement. Any resources created by the instructor are the intellectual property (IP) of the instructor. 

Technology Tools. Living in the 21st century, we are well aware of the technology that surrounds us. This presents opportunities to interact with and use technology in the classroom to enrich learning and create purposeful and active learning environments to fit everyone’s needs. In the class, we will actively use a variety of technology applications. You are not required to have a laptop; a mobile device will suffice. Some of the technology applications that are part of the university system that may be used are BlackBoard Ultra (and apps within in). Other possible apps used in class will be Google Suite, Microsoft Office 365 apps, Wakelet, and Microsoft Education Center/Microsoft Learn to name a few. For specific university-based apps, you can attend trainings by TAMIU’s OIT eLearning team or email the team at elearning@tamiu.eduAdditionally, please refer to Technology Issues under College of Education Policies for any help.

Current Course Learning Environment. Currently, the course is all face-to-face instruction There is no TAMIU Flex option nor online option for courses that are face to face. You are required to attend every class time. If you are not able to, you are absent. There is no alternative method to join class remotely. This is a fluid situation; changes may be made to the delivery of learning. No matter the delivery if changed at any point, you are responsible to view the materials, follow along, and uphold the expectations of the course regardless if remote or F2F. 

1. The student investigates the aspects of creating positive learning environments and the relationship between school and community.
2. The student explores educational issues impacting teaching and learning in contemporary schools.
3. The student investigates the requirements for Texas certification and the TAMIU programs leading to teaching credentials.

• Objective 1: The student will analyze the expectations, skills, and dispositions that contribute to a successful career as a teacher in the 21^st century.
• Objective 2: The student will discuss requirements needed to become a Texas certified teacher.
• Objective 3:.The student will identify the most pressing social context issues challenging students and educators in today’s schools.
• Objective 4: The student relates educational history and laws to current educational practice. 
• Objective 5: The student will assess the importance of maintaining good relationships with families.

Technology Application EC-12: (Standards approved 2016)

• All teachers use and promote creative thinking and innovative processes to construct knowledge, generate new ideas, and create products. (Technology Application Standard I)
• All teachers collaborate and communicate both locally and globally using digital tools and resources to reinforce and promote learning. (Technology Application Standard II)
• All teachers acquire, analyze, and manage content from digital resources. (Technology Application Standard III)
• All teachers make informed decisions by applying critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. (Technology Application Standard IV) 
• All teachers practice and promote safe, responsible, legal, and ethical behavior while using technology tools and resources. (Technology Application Standard V)
• All teachers demonstrate a thorough understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations. (Technology Application Standard VI)
• Teachers know how to plan, organize, deliver, and evaluate instruction for all students that incorporates the effective use of current technology for teaching and integrating the Technology Applications Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) into the curriculum. (Technology Application Standard VII)

ISTE Technology Standards: Educators

• 2.1 Learner. Educators continually improve their practice by learning from and with others and exploring proven and promising practices that leverage technology to improve student learning. Educators:
• 2.2 Leader. Educators seek out opportunities for leadership to support student empowerment and success and to improve teaching and learning. Educators:
• 2.3 Citizen. Educators inspire students to positively contribute to and responsibly participate in the digital world. Educators:
• 2.4 Collaborator. Educators dedicate time to collaborate with both colleagues and students to improve practice, discover and share resources and ideas, and solve problems. Educators:
• 2.5 Designer. Educators design authentic, learner-driven activities and environments that recognize and accommodate learner variability. Educators:
• 2.6 Facilitator. Educators facilitate learning with technology to support student achievement of the 2016 ISTE Standards for Students. Educators:
• 2.7 Analyst. Educators understand and use data to drive their instruction and support students in achieving their learning goals. Educators:

Citation:  ISTE. (2017). ISTE standards for educators. ISTE. https://www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards-for-teachers

Teaching Works High Leverage Practices

• Eliciting and interpreting student thinking.
• Talking about a student with parents or other caregivers.
• Providing oral and written feedback to students.

Citation: Ball, D.L. and Forzani, F.M. (2009). The work of teaching and the challenge of teacher education. Journal of Teacher Education, 60, 497-511.

High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS)

• Setting Goals
• Structuring Lessons
• Explicit Teaching
• Worked Examples
• Collaborative Learning
• Multiple Exposures
• Questioning
• Feedback
• Metacognitive Strategies
• Differentiated teaching

Assignments and Exams: 

All assignments will be submitted exclusively through Blackboard including evidence of in-class assignments. Note: In case of an unforeseen circumstance (e.g. COVID-19), the assignments and number of assignments will remain, but will be modified to fit a remote learning environment. Dates may also change depending on the situation. 

All assignments have explicit instructions posted in Blackboard. All writing assignments include a instruction guide to ensure you follow the directions, process, and any information needed to be successful. The instruction guide provides examples of APA 7th edition citations and other formatting essentials.

Required; Not Graded 

1. Syllabus Scavenger Hunt Quiz and Confirmation. The syllabus scavenger hunt quiz will guide you to understand the details and expectations for the course. The confirmation attests that you have read through the course guidelines and understand them.
2. Academic Integrity Module. Reviews the expectations of all students to hold academic honesty.  

Assignments

1. Quizzes: Quizzes to assess your learning. You will need to use Respondus LockDown Browser.

Summative Exams. 

There are 3 assessments: 1) mid-term, 2) authentic assessment: digital teaching statement, and 3) final. Each test is summative and objective that includes multiple choice, true/false, and short answer. The exams are cumulative, which derive from the information you have learned in the course. The final exam will include a short answer questions that encourages you to think, Do I Want to Become a Teacher? and justify whether you want to continue the journey to become a certified Texas Teacher.

1. Authentic Assessment: Digital Teaching Statement: You will receive proper guidance and an instruction guide as we get closer to the deadline. Essentially, this is a multimedia presentation where you will provide your thoughts on What makes a great teacher? and what the qualities to being a great teacher would be for you. This will summarize the information you are learning in the course.
2. Mid-Term Exam: Summative Assessment: Selected response. Respondus LockDown Browser.
3. Final Exam. Summative Assessment. Selected response and short response. Respondus LockDown Browser.

Instructional Approaches/Methodologies Utilized in this Course include:

Lecture, class discussions, collaborative group activities, technology application, active learning strategies such as Jigsaw, Gallery Walks, other collaborative groupings.

Final grades in this course are calculated as:

Assignments (70 points TOTAL)

1. Quizzes (7x10pts=70pts.)

Assessments (180 points TOTAL)

1. Digital teaching statement – What Makes a Great Teacher? (50pts)
2.  Mid-Term Exam (50 pts.)
3.  Final Exam (80pts.)

TOTAL: 250 points – 100%