New and Updated Course Descriptions

EDU 200 - Foundations of Education

3 Credits

This course will explore the U.S. education system through a social justice and equity lens, focusing on race, class, and gender. Topics include the social, political, and economic goals of education; legal issues in public education; institutional bias and the opportunity gap; and an examination of local school systems. Students will also analyze the historical, philosophical, and socio-cultural roots of U.S. education and its influence on diverse student populations, current trends and educational practices. Through the exploration of various topics and educational philosophies, students will compose their own philosophy of teaching statements.

Prerequisite OR Corequisite: EDU 100;

New SUNY General Education:
SUNY - Diversity: Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice

MCC General Education: MCC-CT - Critical Thinking (MCT), MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

Course Learning Outcomes
1.Analyze the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations of schooling in the United States.
2.Evaluate how race, class, gender, and institutional structures have shaped educational access and opportunity throughout U.S. history.
3.Explain the ongoing impact of systemic inequalities on contemporary schooling and student experience.
4.Identify and assess key influences on curriculum, instructional practices, and educational decision-making in diverse school contexts.
5.Analyze and present a research-informed critical examination of current educational policies, legal issues, and reform trends affecting education.
6.Create a personal philosophy of teaching statement that reflects educator identity, purpose, and commitments to supporting diverse learners.

Course Offered Fall, Spring