Recognizing that teaching is one of the most important and difficult professions in society, the BEd (Master of Teaching Program) at the University of Calgary promotes the view of a teacher as one who is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and deeply caring about the responsibilities associated with education.
Teaching and learning are complex acts, undertaken in diverse and uncertain environments. For this reason, the core idea that underlies teacher preparation in the Master of Teaching (MT) program is that becoming a teacher requires not only the development of pedagogical skill and subject area knowledge, but also the cultivation of practical wisdom. This complex set of qualities is developed in the MT program by providing students with experiences that are learner focused, inquiry based and field oriented.
The Faculty of Education offers a two-year program for holders of approved degrees. All program graduates will be prepared for provincially recognized schools serving students from kindergarten through grade 12. There are two distinct but connected routes - the elementary education route (kindergarten through grade 6), and the secondary education route (grades 7 through 12). Students must declare an emphasis in either elementary or secondary education and complete a block practicum in their chosen area. In the four semesters of this program, learning experiences are integrated conceptually around a series of interrelated themes. "Courses" are offered as integrated thematic units. These thematic units are delivered through a lecture series, case-based tutorials, professional study seminars, independent inquiries, and field experiences.
Each thematic unit has an emphasis on particular knowledge and professional skills. Thematic units serve to integrate and guide students' learning experiences in group, individual and field contexts. There are four thematic units in the two-year program.
Faculty of Education