In a place of higher education, educators are being formed.
The College of Education and Social Sciences is broken up into three academic departments.
Those departments are the department of education, the department of political science and criminal justice and the department of psychology, sociology and social work.
“My students can expect to be prepared to teach hands-on, minds-on science for all children,” Dr. Ashley Campbell said. “They will explore teaching methods and strategies from selected topics in life science, physical science, earth science and space science guided by the most current research in science education.”
According to the WTAMU web site, the College of Education and Social Sciences is committed to ensuring students with opportunities to succeed in their academic, extracurricular, social and civic endeavors.
“This college has helped me to make sure I get my priorities straight and focus on my degree,” Lauren Mackey, junior special education major said. “It has me thinking long-term.”
With 2,111 students, the college also offers 67 baccalaureate programs and 18 masters’ programs.
The Department of Education offers a teacher education program which is designed to prepare students to become educators.
“We give them lots of opportunities and teaching skills,” Campbell said. “This also prepares them for student teaching.”
Student teaching is where students get to implement and practice educational theories and gain hands-on experience.
After completion of a bachelor’s degree, students can gain their teaching certificate.
“The college benefits the University by being educators and investing in the future of the Panhandle,” Campbell said. “Our faculty is so willing to go the extra mile to invest in our students.”
The College of Education and Social Sciences also offers extracurricular activities.
Among those are the Future Educators Society, advised by Dr. Amy Anderson and the National Science Teacher’s Association, advised by Campbell.
The NSTA recently had a guest speaker from Wildcat Bluff.
It is important that students know how to utilize the resources, Campbell said.
The college has adopted a “Go Global” initiative as a service-learning module.
Go Global is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who want to experience international opportunities and broaden their horizons.
Students typically travel for two weeks over the summer and enhance their awareness.
“I like how the teachers really care about the students,” Mackey said. “The professors are very personable and look for the best in us.”
The College of Education and Social Sciences continues to strive each day.
“I have wonderful colleagues and our students are great,” Campbell said. “The day to day interaction is very motivating.”