Education Program

The faculty of the Indian Hills Community College Education Department would like to welcome you and make you aware that we are here to assist you in every way possible. We look forward to your success in the program. 

This student handbook has been developed by the faculty of the Arts & Science’s Education department. It is intended to be a supplement to the Indian Hills Community College handbook; therefore, all policies and regulations from the general handbook are to be observed and followed in addition to those outlines in the following pages of this booklet. 

Student Learning Outcomes

Indian Hills Community College Mission

Indian Hills Community College changes lives by inspiring learning, diversity, social enrichment, and regional economic advancement.

Indian Hills Community College Values

• Academic Excellence and Student Success
• Integrity, Relationships, and Teamwork
• Acceptance, Inclusion, and Accessibility
• Tradition and Culture
• Innovation and the Future

Indian Hills General Education Student Learning Outcomes

General Education Student Learning Outcomes encompass five (5) broad categories of life-long learning:

Education Transfer Major Program Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes for the Education Transfer Major are:

• The student will examine the impact historical events, perspectives and history overall has had on education.
• The student will develop critical thinking skills.
• The student will evaluate current trends or issues that could impact educating children.
• The student will determine the use of technology in effective teaching.
• The student will discuss and analyze personal competencies needed to be a professional educator.
• The student will elaborate on the diversity found in education.

Each course taken in the Education Transfer Major has its own set of Student Learning Outcomes that are assessed in each course, along with the program and college outcomes.

Early Childhood Diploma Program

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Diploma Program prepares students for careers working with children that are 0-8 years of age in a variety of settings. Students will receive knowledge in guidance techniques, child growth and development, safety and nutrition, infant and toddler care, curriculum design, and assessment and evaluation. Professionals are needed that provide nurturing and educational experiences for young children. The knowledge gained in this program prepares students for a career in the Early Childhood Education field. Graduates assume positions in child care centers, child development in-home provider settings, preschools, daycares, and public and private schools working with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children.  Enrolling in the Early Childhood Education Diploma Program provides the student an opportunity to positively impact the lives of young children.

Program Details

Length: 4 term (12 months)

Start: Fall Term

Time to completion varies depending on full time or part time status.

Location: Ottumwa Campus and online

Degree Earned: Diploma

Education Transfer Major

Do you want to be a licensed Teacher?  Have your own classroom?  Inspire a child each and every day? If so, this is the program for YOU!

Be a leader! Educate children of the 21st century!  Teach skills and knowledge that helps children prepare and excel in the future! Life. Changing.

Program Length

*Time to completion varies based on full-time/part-time status and additional coursework needed.  

Program Details

Preparing your to be a 21st Century Teacher

Our Education Major Transfer Program prepares future early childhood teachers, elementary teachers and secondary or high school teachers to take the next steps to be successful in their academic programing; as they aspire to become a licensed professional. Students who enroll in our transfer program will have equitable learning opportunities in all areas of teaching. Indian Hills Community College and the faculty believe that public education is the foundation for future greatness in all aspects of society.  Students in our programs will develop skills, gain knowledge, and explore the different approaches needed to be an effective professional educator.  There is no greater gift than to be able to change or make a positive difference in the lives of the students they teach.

So, make a difference, enroll today in one of our Education Transfer Major Programs. 

Career Possibilities

Students pursuing a degree in education may work as teachers at elementary (K-6) or secondary levels (7-12) and with an early childhood endorsement teach in Preschool to 3rd grade.   Licensed teachers have many other options for employment such as with the U.S. Government, teaching for the Department of Defense or in a private or religious school.  Both being two major alternatives to teaching in a public school system.  In addition, teachers learn and gain many transferrable skills.  These skills may qualify them or they are in need of a little additional training to work as a librarian, counselor, supervisor, administrator, in adult education, as an early childhood educator or at a day care center.  Furthermore, licensed teachers can work in areas of recreation and leisure.  These position may include playground leaders, program specialists in dance, drama, the arts, karate, tennis and other physical activity positions.   Licensed teachers can fill position as recreation center directors, therapeutic recreation specialists, camp counselors, wilderness leaders, senior citizen program leaders, civilian special services directors in the armed forces, and industrial recreation directors. 

Preparation for IHCC

Students planning a career in education should take four years of high school English.  IHCC and preparation programs for educators requires strong skills in reading and writing.  In addition, students are to have a strong foundation in other core academic subjects such as math, science, and social studies.  Classrooms today are focusing on technological literacy so being familiar or literate with computers is also a necessity for those interested in teaching. Additionally, students interested in pursuing an education major should consider electives in psychology. It is also advisable for students to volunteer in the public school system or find other opportunities to work with children in order to make an informed career decision.

What you will learn…

• To identify and examine characteristics and strategies used in effective teaching.
• To examine and appreciate learner uniqueness and apply strategies that promote learning.
• To assess technology that enhances the learning process in all types of classrooms.
• To explore the motivations and diversity found in today’s classrooms.
• To develop critical thinking and communication skills.

Education Club

The Education Club is an organization for future teachers enrolled in the Education Program and likeminded individuals. 

The purpose of the Education Club is to enrich the lives of students going into the teaching field.  Specific goals of the club are to provide opportunities to network, focus on personal abilities, to strengthen the confidence of students as they work with school-age students, volunteer, explore the areas within the field of teaching and to encourage scholarship.  Finally, to provide opportunities for students to understand their personal competencies when working with other club members or other individuals.

In 2009, the Indian Hills Community College Board of Trustees approved awards totaling $300,000 a year for students who are active participants in Indian Hills clubs.  The purpose of these awards is to recruit students and to encourage more students to become involved in campus activities, which in turn can improve retention of these students throughout the school year. 

If you would like to participate in the club, contact a current member or Deb Vos (641) 683-5111 ext. 1835  [email protected]

Transfer Pathways

You’re almost there! The 2nd step is to enter a Teacher Preparation Program at a 4-year institution.  Are You Ready for A Life. Changing. Journey?

Transfer Pathways via Articulation and Beyond, is a unique partnership between IHCC and four-year institutions to provide future teachers with a smooth and seamless transition to be accepted into a teacher preparation program. Teacher preparation programs prepare students for the final coursework needed to obtain a license to teach. A four-year program completes a student’s education, earning a bachelor’s degree; all after graduating from Indian Hills Community College. See below for specific information regarding each Transfer Pathway via Articulation and Beyond Programs.

The Program Director of Education is continually working to create additional Transfer Pathways for students, so check back often for updates.

Quick Tools

Check out the IHCC website for Registration Policies, Procedures, and Instructions. 

Computer Tutorials

We all need help sometimes!  These tutorials are provided to assist you in gaining the required proficiency with the systems you will use at Indian Hills Community College. 

Student Planning

Watch Your Progress to Graduation!

Are you ready to graduate from with an Associate of Arts in Education degree?  To see the progress you have made in the program so far and to stay on track towards graduation, you can check your Degree Audit at any time by following these steps.

• Login in to WebAdvisor
• Select Student Planning
• Select My Progress

If you are having trouble logging into WebAdvisor, please contact the IT HELP Desk (see below).

Early Childhood Teacher Licensure

It is amazing to see young children learn!  Do you want to be a person that guides and educates small children?  Indian Hills Community College offers an Early Childhood Licensure Teacher pathway, preparing the student to become a licensed teacher with the Iowa Department of Education.  Courses in this pathway are designed to transfer to any institution of higher learning.  Courses may be offered on-line and on campus. 

• Students complete a field experience component, which puts them in real time classrooms.
• This coursework prepares students to teach in a Preschool through third grade public or private educational setting.
• This pathway helps to develop critical thinking and communication skills.
• This pathway encourages networking and inspires innovative teaching strategies for the classroom.

Early Childhood Teacher Licensure FAQs

Do I have to have a license to teach Preschool children for a school district? 

Answer: Yes, you would need to have an Elementary license that allows you to teach Kindergarten through 6th grade and then you would need an endorsement to teach PreK to 3rd grade, specifically. 

Where do I get a license? 

Answer: You would complete the IHCC Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Teacher Licensure program and transfer those credits to an accredited 4-year institution with an Education program.  There, complete years 3 and 4 of their program. Once all required components of their program is complete, apply at the Iowa Department of Education for your licensure.

How long does it take to complete the IHCC program and then to finish and receive my license?

Answer: IHCC Early Childhood Teacher Licensure program is 18 months long.  Years 3 and 4 may take you anywhere from 18 months to 30 months depending on your intended outcome.  

Do I have to complete a Criminal background check?

Answer: Yes, you would complete the background check early in the IHCC program. 

Elementary Education

Sometimes to influence great minds, you must start small.  An Elementary Education pathway may be just for you.  This pathway prepares you to work as a licensed teacher in kindergarten through sixth grade in a public or private educational setting.  Indian Hills Community College AA curriculum is designed to transfer seamlessly to any 4-year institution.  This pathway can be completed on campus or on-line. 

• A field experience component in the AA curriculum provides an opportunity to network and experience the day-to-day activities within a classroom.
• Many articulation agreements with institutions of higher learner have been achieved. 
• This program provides a solid beginning towards a teacher license and your own classroom.
• This program prepares the student to identify learner uniqueness and to apply strategies that promote learning.

Elementary Education FAQs

Will I be able to observe in a classroom while in this program?

Answer: Yes, by the time you complete the IHCC Education program, you will have accumulated 43 field experience hours. EDU 213 requires 10 hours, PSY 281 requires 3 hours and EDU 282 requires 30 hours of field experience.

What grades can I teach when I have an elementary license?

Answer: You can teach Kindergarten through 6th grade. 

Do the credits from this program transfer to a 4-year institution?

Answer: Yes, we have articulation agreements with many 4-year institutions.  Always check needed coursework with the institution you are thinking about transferring to and then check with Professor Deb Vos, Program Director of Education for specifics.

Can I teach 7th or 8th grade with my license?

Answer: No, you would need to acquire a Middle School Endorsement, which is a few additional course at the 4-year institution.

What if I want to teach at the Preschool in a school district?

Answer: There again, you would need an Elementary license and an endorsement for Early Childhood Education.

Secondary Education

We remember our high school days, prom, homecoming, basketball games and that teacher that made such an impact, that they changed our lives forever.  Be that teacher! Indian Hills Community College is offering a Secondary Education pathway, leading to teacher licensure.  This pathway provides ample opportunity to observe in multiple classroom settings.  Plus, you can complete the courses on campus or on-line. 

• The coursework in this pathway provides opportunities to determine a discipline focus.
• This pathway prepares students to work as a teacher in a public or private educational setting. 
• Concepts and practices in coursework can be used in any classroom. 
• Student are prepared to evaluate technology that will enhance the learning process in all types of classrooms.
• This pathway provides coursework that helps the student assess and explore diversity found in today’s classrooms.

Secondary Education FAQs

What do I do if I want to teach history and English?

Answer: Complete the IHCC Secondary Education program and transfer to a 4-year institution.  There, take education coursework and coursework in the areas you choose to major in.

Can I still coach with a teaching license?

Answer: Yes, you would need to get a coaching endorsement.

How many credits is the Secondary Education program? And what will transfer to a 4-year university?

Answer: The IHCC Secondary Education program is 64 credits.  We have many articulation agreements with colleges and universities.  Most, if not all, coursework will transfer.  It is important to know where you plan to transfer and what you need to take and do to complete both program.

Will I be able to complete the field experience at my past high school?

Answer: You, the student, will make your own arrangements at the location of your choice for field experience hours.  The Program Director at IHCC will guide and help you when needed but, ultimately, you will be able to observe where you choose.

Can I complete my field experience in multiple classrooms or just one classroom?

Answer: It is recommended that you complete your hours in different grade levels and in the area you wish to teach.

Field Experience

Students in the Education Transfer Major will complete a total of 43 hours of field experience. 

• EDU 213 - 10 hours
• PSY 281 - 3 hours
• EDU 282 - 30 hours

Field Experience Guidelines

It is one thing to try to imagine how a teacher uses (or does not use) time in the classroom, but actually seeing teachers in action can put the issue of time utilization in a different perspective.

It is recommended that students complete their field experience hours in more than one school setting and more than one grade level yet, staying in the level they wish to teach.  Students should focus time in the subject/s that they wish to teach, also.  In all courses, it is the student’s responsibility to arrange for their field experience hours with schools, administration and or teachers. 

While participating in an observation, students are expected to:

• Dress professionally
• Be respectful
• Use professional language
• Be prepared with pen and paper
• Arrive and depart at agreed upon times
• Inform your Cooperating Teacher of any anticipated absences, plan to make up absences, if needed
• Maintain confidentiality

Field Experience Log Verification Form

Students must complete a Field Experience Log Verification Form (found in the course, booklets) for each observation.  This form is to be signed by the cooperating teacher at each location and observation time.  Once the hours are complete, these forms are to be submitted to the appropriate location in the course.  It is recommended that students keep an electronic copy and the paper copy.  Four year institutions, teacher preparation programs may request to see these logs to verify your hours.  Don’t be surprised if you are asked to produce evidence of your hours in pre or post Teacher Preparation program.

All policies found in the Student Handbook will apply to this program. 

EDU 282 Field Experience: Exploring Teaching

To enroll in EDU 282 a student must meet the following criteria:

• Enrolled in an Associate of Arts Education Transfer Major program (as of Fall 2020)
• 3/4 of programs courses met with a C or better 
• Criminal background check complete 
• Completed PSY 281 Educational Psychology with a C or better

Specific policies for EDU 282 Field Experience:

• It is the student’s responsibility to set up their field experience hours with a school/s and/or teacher/s.
• A maximum of 6 hours of field experience can be completed at a current place of employment.
• Field experience must be completed in more than 2 different classrooms/grade level settings, however, hours can be completed at the same district or school.
• All or remaining hours must be completed in a public or private school setting under the guidance of a teacher with a current Master/Standard teaching license in the level of student’s future teaching level (elementary or secondary).
• *Early Childhood Teacher Licensure-Students planning to teach at a preschool must obtain an elementary teaching license and an early childhood endorsement.  24 Field experience hours must be met in an elementary setting.

All policies found in the Student Handbook will apply to this program. 

Curriculum

All Education Program specific courses are offered online and face-to-face.

BIO 101 - Introductory Biology - Credits: 2.00
This course introduces: the role of science in everyday life, chemical and biological processes, structures and processes of cells, heredity and evolution. This is a “non-majors level” biology course. It can be accompanied by the 1-credit hour BIO 103 - Introductory Biology Lab or it can be taken alone. Corequisite(s): BIO 103

BIO 103 - Introductory Biology Lab - Credits: 1.00
This is a “non-majors level” biology course and is designed to accompany BIO 101 - Introductory Biology. Laboratory work includes the use of laboratory tools for measurements using the metric system, use of the light microscope, and study of biological processes. The process of science and components of experiments are emphasized. Corequisite(s): BIO 101

CSC 110 - Introduction to Computers - Credits: 3.00
This course is an introduction to business computer software and hardware. Students will use basic and intermediate features of word processing and spreadsheet software, and basic features of database and presentation software. General computer concepts and the Internet will also be covered.

EDU 213 - Introduction to Education - Credits: 3.00
This course surveys the teaching profession and introduces the student to the basic concepts and principles of education, including teaching effectiveness, school models and reform, curriculum, diversity, law, administration, philosophies, and job options. Students will be required to complete ten hours of classroom observation.

EDU 235 - Children’s Literature–Credits: 3.00
This course provides a survey of children’s literature focusing on specific literary categories including poetry, fantasy, historical fiction, picture books, realistic fiction and informational books. Major writers are examined in each category. Additionally, the course explores evaluating and selecting children’s literature for personal and professional use.

EDU 246 - Including Diverse Learners - Credits: 3.00
This course introduces students to the issues and practices regarding the inclusion of diverse student populations in general education settings. The focus is on understanding the uniqueness and needs of all students’ i.e. general education, special education, at-risk, gifted students and students with specific disabilities and disorders. Students will examine practical considerations for adapting curriculum in the classroom.

 EDU 255 - Technology in the Classroom - Credits: 3.00
This course focuses on the planning and practical use of technology as a resource to enhance the learning process in all types of classrooms. Students will explore a variety of digital tools and Internet resources along with current best practices for classroom-related activities. The course focuses on theories and current issues as well as providing experiences that will enable prospective education students the ability to select, plan and assess a variety of resources for use in the classroom to maximize student learning.

EDU 282 - Field Experience: Exploring Teaching - Credits: 1.00
This course provides students with an opportunity to enhance their knowledge of the K-12 teaching profession. Students will be able to gain insights and a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the classroom teacher in the school environment. This 30-hour field experience takes place in a K-12 school under the guidance of a licensed educator. Students must complete, and successfully pass a criminal background check prior to beginning their field experience. Prerequisite(s): PSY 281

ENG 105 - Composition I - Credits: 3.00
This course emphasizes analytical writing skills and stylistic competence developed through source- and non-sourcebased essays. Students will write at least four 800-1000 word essays, including 3 - 5 source-based essays and no more than one non-sourced essay. Students will respond to written and visual texts drawn from diverse sources and will use documentation correctly. Emphasis will also be placed on essay structure, grammatical correctness, and development of a professional voice through writing. Prerequisite(s): Overall high school GPA of 2.6 or, Minimum ACT score of 20 or, Minimum SAT score of 780 or, Minimum Compass score of 70 or, Minimum E-Write Essay Test score of 9 or, Minimum AccuPlacer Classic composite score of 200 or, Minimum AccuPlacer Next Generation composite score of 710 or, Elements of Writing (ENG 101).

ENG 106 -Composition II - Credits: 3.00
This course introduces the student to the process of research writing using the Modern Language Association documentation style. A thesis-driven report paper and a thesis-driven argumentative essay, both documented in MLA style, will demonstrate the student’s proficiency with the research process. Students will produce approximately 20 pages of academic research writing. Prerequisite(s): ENG 105

HIS 151 - U.S. History to 1877 - Credits: 3.00
This course covers European discovery and settlement of the Americas. Topics include: European colonial expansion, colonial wars, colonial governments, the Revolutionary War, the adoption of the Constitution and the growth and development of the United States through the Civil War and Reconstruction.

HIS 152 - U.S. History since 1877 - Credits: 3.00
This course examines Westward expansion, industrialization, immigration, and urbanization. Topics include populism and the Progressive Era, WWI, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, WWII, the Cold War and the post-Cold War period.

MAT 117 - Math for Elementary Teachers - Credits: 3.00
This course investigates number systems including systems of numeration, set theory, the whole numbers, integers and rational numbers, number theory, abstract systems, and informal geometry and measurement.

MAT 156 - Statistics - Credits: 3.00
This course provides a foundation of statistical concepts and procedures that can aid the student as both a consumer and producer of statistical information. The course emphasizes descriptive and inferential statistical methods, probability, estimation, hypothesis testing and linear regression. Students are introduced to technology as it applies to introductory statistical methods. Prerequisite(s): Some background in algebra is recommended.

PSY 111 - Introduction to Psychology - Credits: 3.00
This course is a broad introduction to the principles of contemporary psychology. The course is based on providing the student with an understanding of the theoretical foundations of psychology, as well as a survey of empirical research dealing with behavior and mental processes.

PSY 121 - Developmental Psychology- Credits: 3.00
The course is designed to provide a survey of the patterns of behavior and current attitudes on human development from birth to death. Emphasis is given to the theories of cognitive, social, physical and emotional development. Prerequisite(s): PSY 111

PSY 263 - Multicultural Psychology - Credits: 3.00
Multicultural Psychology is a course designed to explore multiculturalism from a psychological perspective. Emphasis is on the multicultural issues that affect our understanding of and differences in worldviews, research and theory using a wide range of psychological domains: the systemic study of all aspects of human behavior, developmental, social, and health. Topics in the course include the history of multiculturalism, race, ethnicity and culture as well as the issues and controversies related to those terms, communication styles, cultural identity development, immigration and acculturation, and mental and physical health among diverse cultural groups. Prerequisite(s): PSY 111

PSY 281 - Educational Psychology - Credits: 3.00
This course examines the principles of psychology as they apply to educational settings with special emphasis on such topics as development, learning, motivation, measurement and evaluation and mental health. Prerequisite(s): PSY 111

SDV 101 - How to be Successful in College - Credits: 3.00
This course introduces students to the fundamental skills necessary for college success. Topics include: study and test-taking skills, college culture and services, financial aid and literacy, health and wellness, policies and procedures.

SPC 101 - Fundamentals of Oral Communication - Credits: 3.00
This course focuses on basic communication, including the communication process, self-concept, self-disclosure, perception, language, listening, non-verbal messages, interpersonal relationships, public speaking, small group communication and inter-cultural relations.

SPC 112 - Public Speaking - Credits: 3.00
This course prepares students for a variety of speaking situations, both formal and informal. The student will prepare and deliver 5-7 speeches using a variety of preparation and delivery strategies. The student will learn how to incorporate research and professional presentational aids into a speech.

Appendices

• Early Childhood Teacher Licensure Curriculum Guide
• Elementary Education Curriculum Guide
• Secondary Education Curriculum Guide
• Education Program Informational Handout