ACT Philosophy & Vision
Philosophy
The ACT Preparation Program reflects the philosophy and guiding values of the Michael D. Eisner College of Education. This philosophy is expressed in the conceptual framework adopted by the College:
The College of Education, as a professional school, uses a developmental approach to promote reflection, critical thinking, and excellence in an inclusive learning community. Its graduates are well educated, highly skilled and caring persons who are lifelong learners prepared to practice in an ever changing, multicultural world. They are committed to promoting achievement of all students as a primary measure of successful educational practice. Graduates assume service and leadership roles in public and private educational, health, and social programs and institutions. The College establishes and maintains productive partnerships with community schools and agencies. The faculty is committed to excellence in teaching, scholarship, service and collaboration with the community and professions. The values for faculty and students that form the foundation of this Conceptual Framework include the following:
- We value high standards in the acquisition and application of professional knowledge and skills in subject matter, pedagogy, and technology.
- We value the achievement of students at all levels and promote its accomplishment in accordance with national, state, and institutional standards.
- We value an inclusive learning community.
- We value creative, critical, and reflective thinking and practice.
- We value ethical practice by caring professionals.
Vision
The values that the ACT Program promotes are reflected in the following vision statement:
We are a collaborative, supportive, empowering community, District 2 and the University united in the commitment to invigorate ongoing teacher education and utilize research and assessment that will inspire best teaching practices to meet the diverse needs of students and to significantly affect student achievement.
Our goal as a Collaborative is to create and sustain a learning and teaching community that fosters collaborative planning, teaching and inquiry among teacher candidates, university faculty, and the PreK-12 community.