The Health Education & Physical Education program within the Physical Education, Exercise & Wellness Studies (PXW) department prepares candidates seeking the New York State certification to teach physical education (PE) and health education (HE) and coach interschool athletics.
Students are taught using a range of methods by which physical and health literacy can be achieved. In particular, the program utilizes adventure education (structured learning exercises characterized by perceived or real risk or challenge) and experiential education principles as the foundation for its curriculum. Please note that this program requires moderate physical activity including running, jumping, climbing, and tumbling.
Student teaching in physical education or health education is not part of this curriculum. Successful completion of this program does not result in teacher certification eligibility. Students must complete the M.S. Health & Physical Education Teacher Prep program to be eligible for teacher certification.
To be in good standing with the Office of Teacher Preparation (OTP), students must maintain a 2.75 GPA in years 1, 2, and 3. Students must maintain a 3.0 in year 4. Students will be admitted to M.S. Health & Physical Education Teacher Prep program (where they will complete their pedagogical coursework and student teaching required for teacher certification) if they meet retention and completion criteria and have a 3.0 cumulative GPA upon graduation.
Each student’s academic file will be reviewed every semester. Students who do not meet the retention criteria including, but not limited to, grades, ethics, or fieldwork/internship site requirements for two consecutive semesters will be dismissed from the program. In the case of dismissal, a letter outlining the reasons for dismissal will be issued by the department to the student. Students may appeal the decision to the Academic Standards Committee.
During fieldwork or internships, students are required to follow site policies and procedures including those related to physical examinations and immunizations.
Program Learning Objectives
PXW Major Learning Objectives
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Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
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Understand the needs of diverse students, clients, families, and/or colleagues.
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Develop leadership skills necessary to be an effective teaching/health & wellness professional.
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Engage in professional development and/or professional organizations.
Health Education & Physical Education Learning Objectives:
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Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, inclusive, lessons and student learning activities which promote physical, intellectual, emotional, and social well-being.
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Create, apply, and analyze assessment of student learning; using results and self-reflection to shape instructional practices.