Environmental Education In this interdisciplinary course students will learn foundational principles and practices in environmental education. Topics include ecological citizenship, environmental literacy, place-based education, learning theories, nature pedagogy, school gardens, and forest schools. Most class sessions will be held outdoors, where students will apply and extend their learning, develop lessons, and practice teaching. This course is appropriate for students interested in outdoor environmental education in formal or non-formal settings with any age between early childhood and high school. Field experiences with community partners occur outside of class. Approval Required (EDST 0115)  3hrs. lect.

Student Teaching in the Elementary School A semester-long practicum in a local elementary school under the direct supervision of an experienced cooperating teacher. (Corequisite: EDST 0410)

Student Teaching in Elementary School See EDST 0405.

Student Teaching in the Elementary School See EDST 0405.

Student Teaching Seminar Concurrent with student teaching, this course is designed to provide guidance in curriculum development and its implementation in the classroom, and to explore issues related to the teaching process and the profession. Students will construct a Teaching Licensure Portfolio as well as exchange ideas about their student teaching experiences. Topics including technology, classroom management, special education, and assessment will be featured. The Vermont Framework of Standards and Learning Opportunities, the five Standards for Vermont Educators, the Principles for Vermont Educators, and ROPA-R will guide the development of the Teacher Licensure Portfolio. (Corequisite: EDST 0405, EDST 0406, EDST 0407 or EDST 0415, EDST 0416 EDST 0417)

Elementary Science Methods In this course we will investigate children’s scientific understanding and how to design learning experiences to advance their understanding. Working closely with practicing elementary school teachers, students will spend five days a week in the schools, observing science instruction, conducting assessments, lesson planning, and teaching standards-based lessons. Students will learn to use a claim/evidence/reasoning framework to develop children’s scientific explanations. We will also study recent research in science education and the engineering and design process. Students will gain an understanding of how to plan, implement, and assess science instruction through seminars. Students will also continue to work on their Vermont licensure portfolio. [Open to EDST Elementary Licensure candidates only].

Elementary Math Methods In this course we will approach mathematics as the construction of ideas rather than the memorization of facts and rules. We will investigate children’s mathematical reasoning, how to construct learning experiences to advance conceptual development, and how a social justice stance enables math to be a source of empowerment for children. Many class sessions occur at a local elementary school (transportation provided) so students can ground their thinking about course topics within a school, and consistently practice and receive feedback on authentic components of teaching. Students will also complete field experiences in a local K-6 classroom and Vermont licensure requirements.

Senior Seminar in Education Studies In this capstone seminar for General Education minors, students will engage, analyze, and offer solutions to real world problems in the current landscape of education. We will read extensively in the field, consider multiple research methods and approaches, and enlist community experts. Working across disciplines and collaboratively, students will create final projects that integrate and apply what they have learned in their coursework, developing and enhancing skills for creative problem solving and leadership in the field. Final projects will vary; all students will make oral presentations. (three of five required courses for the general EDST minor.) 3 hrs. Sem.

Reading & Writing the World: Teaching Literacy and Social Studies in the Elementary School In this course, we examine what it means to be literate in the 21st century and ways in which all students can be empowered by the texts and teaching they encounter in schools. Students will develop their ability to enact literacy instruction based on current research about how children learn to read and write. We will take a critical look at texts—fiction, nonfiction, and historical—to consider the ways that texts read and write the world, develop abilities to select texts that empower all learners, and analyze retellings of historical events/persons to take into account multiple perspectives.  Many class sessions occur onsite at a local elementary school to provide consistent practice and supportive feedback on authentic components of teaching (transportation provided). In addition to class sessions, students will complete field experiences in a K-6 classroom in the Middlebury area to see the workings of an entire class.

Student Teaching in the Middle School/High School A semester-long practicum in a local middle or high school under the direct supervision of an experienced cooperating teacher. (Corequisite: EDST 0410)

Student Teaching in the Middle School/High School See EDST 0415.

Tracy Weston

Reviews and ratings for Tracy Weston at Middlebury College.Tracy Weston teaches Environmental Education, Elem Student Teach Practicum, Student Teaching Seminar and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Tracy Weston good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

i was dreading this class because big research projects are not my thing, but prof weston made it an enjoyable experience. she was accommodating to my needs as a student and worked with all of us to help us find projects we were passionate about. also really enjoyed the readings she chose they felt relevant and not like busy work.

This course is mandatory for Ed Studies Majors, and Ms.Weston will not be helpful in providing guidance with the material. Weston is unresponsive of requesting feedback regarding performance, and only supplies students with general feedback on lesson plans. 

Uncommunicative regarding academic concerns, no guidance regarding lesson planning unless prompted, and cold, condescending, terse behavior with students. This course is mandatory for Ed Studies Majors, and you’ll learn more from the schools you’re working with and your classmate colleague than you ever will from the professor.