Mission statement
The Physical Education Pedagogy Option of the University of New Hampshire, College of Health and Human Services, Department of Kinesiology provides the foundation for public school teacher certification (K-12) in the state of NH. Our option has a threefold mission consistent with the overall mission of the University which encompasses the scholarly functions of teaching, research, and public service. The option is committed to using whatever expertise and methods are available in the accomplishment of its mission.
The goals of the program are:
- To recruit students and screen for appropriate candidates to enter the Pedagogy Option.
- For student attainment and mastery of the minimal competencies necessary to function as an effective entry-level physical educator and successfully pass the PRAXIS I State Licensure Certification Examination.
- To keep the Pedagogy Option up-to-date and current.on physical education instruction and learning literature.
- To train pre-service teachers to be sensitive to the needs and abilities of students with disabilities.
- To function as one of the premier resources for disseminating relevant information and expertise regarding the teaching of physical education and health in the region.
- To promote scholarship of individuals associated with the Option.
- To continually monitor and evaluate the Option to insure it is meeting and accomplishing its goals and objectives.
The underlying philosophy of the program is that the needs of the student shall always be the first consideration for all members of the teaching faculty. Kinesiology instructors shall be current in the knowledge and skills required of physical and health educators ; and possess the techniques to deliver the knowledge and skills to the students. An important feature of our program is the multiple opportunities for our students to teach school-aged children from elementary to middle and high school, either on-campus in ‘laboratory’ settings or in local schools. Our program is currently accredited by the state of New Hampshire and nationally via the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC).
Objectives:
Our students upon graduation are expected to meet the National Association for Sport and Physical Education’s beginning teacher standards, which include graduates being able to:
- Demonstrate extensive physical education content knowledge;
- Comprehend the growth and development of school-aged children;
- Teach to diverse student populations;
- Demonstrate efficient and effective classroom management and organization;
- Communicate with and motivate student learners;
- Plan developmentally appropriate lessons and implement them effectively;
- Utilize various assessment tools;
- Be reflective practitioners;
- Use technology to enhance their instruction;
- Collaborate with physical education colleagues and other ‘stakeholders’.