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M
A S T E R O F
A
R T S I N
T
E A C H I N G
E
A R L Y
C
H I L D H O O D
&
E
L E M E N T A R Y
E
D U C A T I O N
Overview
In keeping with the institutional mission of Columbia International University, the Master of Arts in Teaching
(M.A.T.) program seeks to create a learning environment that provides models, growth experiences, and
communities of practice for equipping Christian educators who make wise decisions as they create effective
learning communities. We are equipping discerning educators. Early childhood and elementary school curricula
are addressed.
Students (referred to as candidates herein) completing the specified requirements will be recommended for initial
teacher licensure in South Carolina, which has a reciprocal agreement with many other states. Since licensure
requirements vary from state to state, candidates are advised to make themselves familiar with the requirements
of the states in which they may want to teach. Candidates completing the program requirements will be eligible for
recommendation for initial South Carolina licensure in Early Childhood (PreK-3
rd
grade) and/or Elementary (2
nd
-
6
th
grade). Candidates will also be recommended for Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
certification.
The M.A.T. program is also designed to meet the scheduling needs of individuals. Candidates may begin their
course of study at the beginning of the Fall or Spring semesters. The program may be completed in four terms of
full-time study or candidates may extend the time to complete the program. The M.A.T. program director is
available to assist candidates in planning their degree program.
As candidates journey through the M.A.T. program, milestones are reached that serve as a time for evaluation and
planning. Milestones are specific points in the learning journey where competencies will have been met. These
milestones are:
•
Milestone 1: Program Admission
•
Milestone 2: Involved Learner Review
•
Milestone 3: Effective Practitioner Review
•
Milestone 4: Authentic Professional Review
•
Milestone 5: Clinical Practice/Student Teaching Admission
•
Milestone 6: Clinical Practice/Student Teaching Exit
•
Milestone 7: Graduation
Specific dates, deadlines, and competencies for each milestone are detailed in the M.A.T. Candidate Handbook.
Purpose
This program serves to produce Christian educators who are involved learners, effective practitioners, and
authentic professionals so they can make wise decisions as they create effective learning communities.
Objectives
Candidates will demonstrate that they are becoming discerning educators when they show they are:
•
Learners who know content, children, and pedagogy.
•
Designers who demonstrate effective planning and preparation for instruction.
•
Presenters who model effective educational methodology, communication, and technology techniques.
•
Evaluators who assess, diagnose, and monitor individual needs to implement differentiated instructional
opportunities.
•
Managers who create and effectively manage a nurturing environment.
•
Partners who collaborate with the child, family, community, and other professionals.
•
Professionals who are committed, reflective model educators who learn from experience and contribute to
the profession.
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College of Education