Washington & Jefferson College

The Mission of the Washington and Jefferson College Education Department is to attract to the teaching profession intelligent men and women of competence, maturity, creativity, and caring who are effective lifelong learners, responsible citizens and personal and professional role models prepared to contribute positively to the world in which they live. To this end, the Education Department promotes the development of attitudes, behaviors, skills, and knowledge that first, does no harm. Second, the department seeks to nurture the best in students academically, socially, and morally. Third, the department seeks to foster and validate a community of learners whereby all may be safe, healthy risk takers seeking knowledge in a broad variety of learning and communication styles. Fourth, the department encourages diverse problem solving techniques and the acquisition, cultivation, and the sharing of knowledge. To fulfill its educational mission, the Education Department offers a broad curriculum that actively involves students in student taught demonstration lessons and diverse field experiences connecting educational theory with best practice. Active learning and complete cognitive and social participation is required of all participants. The philosophy of the program is that the way to learn to teach, is to teach incorporated in the motto, "Docendo Discimus - We learn by teaching". The preparation of teachers has been a proud and historic part of the heritage of Washington and Jefferson College since its founding in 1781.

For more information, please contact Professor James M. Longo.