Foundations of Teacher Education
- Associate Degree
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The Foundations of Teacher Education associate degree program prepares you to engage with students of diverse ages and varying ability levels while operating under the guidance and supervision of a licensed teacher. You will be well-equipped for a fulfilling career as a paraprofessional or educational assistant, offering invaluable support services to school-age students. While this program prepares graduates to serve in a variety of educational contexts, it places a primary emphasis on roles in elementary and middle-level schools.
Graduates of this program possess the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective instructional strategies, enabling you to assist students with a wide array of academic tasks, including mathematics, science, reading, and writing assignments, in addition to other instructional activities. You will be adept at monitoring student progress, providing individualized support, facilitating small group activities, and offering one-on-one tutoring. Moreover, you'll play an integral role in enhancing the classroom environment by contributing to classroom displays, aiding students with computer and media-related tasks, and overseeing various classroom and school events.
Western's Foundations of Teacher Education program is fully compliant with Title I requirements and fulfills the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for paraprofessionals. Furthermore, graduates of this program have the opportunity to transfer to several universities offering bachelor degree programs in Elementary Education or Special Education.
To view the Foundations of Teacher Education program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [1].
Foundations of Teacher Education 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 50 |
| Graduates Responding | 28 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 11 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 3 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 13 |
| Not in Labor Market | 14 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 1 | 5 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 20 | 37 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $14.00 | $17.58 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $14.00 | $15.90-$19.26 |
| Average Annual Salary | $22,533 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Assistant Teacher, Special Education Para, Educational Assistant, Server/Bartender/Manager
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate instructional support strategies for content areas
- Implement developmentally appropriate practices to foster learning
- Adapt instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners
- Use proactive classroom management techniques
- Perform professional responsibilities
- Incorporate the reflective process to promote professional growth
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Program Specific Requirements
To enroll in the Foundations of Teacher Education Associate Degree program, first apply for admission to the College, then read the program's Essential Functions and complete a background check. You can find the link to the background check document below:
- Background Check [3]
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [4].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [5].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [6] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [7]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [8].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [9] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [10]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
- Program Details [11]
Career Pathways:
Foundations of Teacher Education
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [12] about what may apply to this program.
Technical Diploma:
Associate Degree:
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [13] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [14] self-service portal for academic planning.