Program Structure

The Bachelor of Education (Secondary) STEM program is an accelerated program of 64 credits completed over twelve consecutive months (Summer, Fall, Winter, Summer semesters).

Courses and associated school practicum experiences are completed in a specified sequence. Course order may vary slightly between semesters subject to program needs.

Schedule of Courses by Semester

Summer 1 - July and August
EDCO 3100
Communications 1 (2,0,0)

EDCO 3100 Communications 1 (2,0,0)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is designed to provide teacher candidates with an opportunity to develop skills for effective communication with students, parents, colleagues, and other school-related persons. This course includes field education components at various location(s). This course includes instructional time at McQueen Lake, the environmental education centre operated by the Kamloops/Thompson School district. Teacher candidates learn effective communication skills, including an introduction to conflict resolution and teaching social skills, through role-playing and discussion. Science exploration (such as Project Wild group activities) and physical activity (such as nature walks) are integral parts of learning about effective communication. Science exploration and physical activity are integral parts of learning about effective communication.
Prerequisite: Admission to a TRU Bachelor of Education program.
For more information, search for this course here.

EDIT 4150
Information Technology Across the Curriculum (3,0,0)

EDIT 4150 Information Technology Across the Curriculum (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course provides teachers with information about how to use 21st century technology across the curriculum. The skillful integration of 21st century technologies can enable more equitable learning opportunities for all. Digital technologies, access to information, globalization, and equity are changing the world. Participants learn how to critically evaluate the pedagogical benefits of various educational technology tools in the classroom setting.
For more information, search for this course here.

EDSM 3100
Introduction to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) (3,0,0)

EDSM 3100 Introduction to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Approaches for supporting middle school and junior level secondary students' engagement and learning in mathematics and science are introduced. Teacher candidates develop pedagogical approaches and strategies consistent with constructivist philosophy and the nature of science and math. Teacher candidates design lesson and unit plans that build math or science inquiry skills; promote critical and innovative thinking; connect with authentic math, science and technology contexts; and, are consistent with British Columbia Ministry of Education curriculum. EDSM 3100 prepares teacher candidates for the first practicum EDTE 3410.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) program
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3110
Learning, Curriculum and Assessment (3,0,0)

EDTE 3110 Learning, Curriculum and Assessment (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course emphasizes continuous improvement of teaching and learning through planning and feedback facilitated by the professional development process. Students demonstrate self-awareness of the limits of their current knowledge and the ongoing need to seek out new information. Course topics include identifying ongoing professional development opportunities, developing and implementing course outlines, identifying types of learning, determining appropriate instructional techniques and learning activities, determining and evaluating appropriate assessment and testing methods, and creating an effective learning environment.
Prerequisite: Admission into a B.Ed. Teacher Education Program Required Seminar: EDTE 3110S
For more information, search for this course here.

Fall - September to December
EDTE 3410
Practicum 1 (60 hours)

EDTE 3410 Practicum 1 (60 hours)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

This is an introductory practicum experience in secondary schools. Students are placed in learning teams to collaboratively experience a variety of short-term teaching responsibilities. Students work with close guidance and mentorship from a qualified and experienced technical education teacher in a classroom and shop setting, or from a qualified and experienced teacher in the mathematics or science classroom. Teacher candidates are placed in pairs for this practicum and may participate in different classrooms with different teachers.
Prerequisite: Admission into the B.Ed. Teacher Education Program
Exclusion: EDPR 3100
For more information, search for this course here.

EDFN 4200
Indigenous Culture and Learning (3,0,0)

EDFN 4200 Indigenous Culture and Learning (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

The course begins with an overview of the history of Indigenous Education in British Columbia and Canada. The course focuses on effective teaching and learning practices for Indigenous students including developing relationships with parents and extended family members. Teacher candidates examine how to enrich the regular school curriculum by adding Indigenous content and including the cultural background of their Indigenous students. The class format is presentation and discussion based on articles and videos provided by faculty, presentations from other Indigenous educators, community members, and teacher candidates. Field experiences typically include visits to local band-operated schools, the Secwepemc Museum, the Kamloops Residential School and the Interior Indian Friendship Centre.
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Bachelor of Education program or permission of the instructor
For more information, search for this course here.

EDIE 4150
Inclusive Education: Specific Learning Disabilities (3,0,0)

EDIE 4150 Inclusive Education: Specific Learning Disabilities (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course introduces teacher candidates to the controversial field of specific learning disabilities. The course begins with a historical perspective on learning disabilities and an overview of relevant theoretical frameworks and models of learning disabilities. Participants examine current legislation in British Columbia and its relationship to the school district, school and classroom levels. Two key topics include (1) screening, assessment, and identification practices, and (2) intervention strategies and how they affect classroom practice.
Prerequisite: Admission into the Bachelor of Education Program
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both EDIE 4150 and EDPY 4150
For more information, search for this course here.

EDSM 4200
STEM Specialty (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) (6,0,0)

EDSM 4200 STEM Specialty (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) (6,0,0)

Credits: 6 credits
Delivery: Campus

***Please note: EDSM 4200 is a full year course. Students choosing this course in Fall must also register for the same section for it in Winter and vice-versa.*** This course builds on EDSM 3100. Approaches for supporting senior secondary students' engagement and learning in a science specialty (biology, chemistry, physics) or a mathematics specialty are explored. Teacher candidates extend their application of pedagogical approaches and strategies consistent with constructivist philosophy and the nature of science or math for the senior secondary student. Teacher candidates design lesson and unit plans that build inquiry skills; promote critical and innovative thinking; connect with authentic science, math and technology contexts; and, are consistent with British Columbia Ministry of Education curriculum. The course prepares teacher candidates for the second two-week practicum (EDTE 3420) and the long practicum (EDTE 3430, 3440, 3450) where they teach in their specialty area.
Prerequisite: EDSM 3100
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3120
Adolescent Learning and Development (3,0,0)

EDTE 3120 Adolescent Learning and Development (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is intended to provide an understanding of adolescent learning and development. Modern theories in developmental, educational and cognitive psychology, as well as social and physical development will be explored. Emphasis will be on the theories that are relevant to adolescents in the school environment in order to help educators plan and implement appropriate lessons, activities, lectures, assignments, and teaching strategies.
Prerequisite: Admission into the B.Ed. Teacher Education Program
Note: Students cannot receive credit for more than one of EDIE 3100, EDPY 3100 or EDTE 3120
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3150
Diversity and Inclusive Education (3,0,0)

EDTE 3150 Diversity and Inclusive Education (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Teacher candidates develop awareness and best practice for the diversity of students in secondary schools, including cultural, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, religion and socioeconomic diversity. Through discussion, teacher candidates reflect upon societal concerns including bullying, racism, homophobia, and sexism. Teacher candidates develop strategies aimed at creating inclusive and safe learning environments for all learners. Issues of particular concern for trades and technology and STEM learning environments are addressed.
Prerequisite: Admission into the B.Ed. Teacher Education Program
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3420
Practicum 2 (60 hours)

EDTE 3420 Practicum 2 (60 hours)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

This practicum experience emphasizes teaching and learning in each teacher candidate's own area of technical/trade or mathematics/science expertise. Students assume teaching responsibilities including planning, classroom management, and evaluation. They work closely with and are mentored by a qualified and experienced technical or mathematics/science education teacher. Students are placed in learning teams to collaboratively experience a variety of teaching responsibilities.
Prerequisite: EDTE 3410
Exclusion: EDPR 3200
For more information, search for this course here.

Winter - January to April
EDSM 4200
STEM Specialty (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) (6,0,0)

EDSM 4200 STEM Specialty (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) (6,0,0)

Credits: 6 credits
Delivery: Campus

***Please note: EDSM 4200 is a full year course. Students choosing this course in Fall must also register for the same section for it in Winter and vice-versa.*** This course builds on EDSM 3100. Approaches for supporting senior secondary students' engagement and learning in a science specialty (biology, chemistry, physics) or a mathematics specialty are explored. Teacher candidates extend their application of pedagogical approaches and strategies consistent with constructivist philosophy and the nature of science or math for the senior secondary student. Teacher candidates design lesson and unit plans that build inquiry skills; promote critical and innovative thinking; connect with authentic science, math and technology contexts; and, are consistent with British Columbia Ministry of Education curriculum. The course prepares teacher candidates for the second two-week practicum (EDTE 3420) and the long practicum (EDTE 3430, 3440, 3450) where they teach in their specialty area.
Prerequisite: EDSM 3100
For more information, search for this course here.

EDLL 3160
Literacy Across the Content Areas (2,0,0)

EDLL 3160 Literacy Across the Content Areas (2,0,0)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

Approaches for supporting secondary students in literacy are explored. Teacher candidates develop pedagogical approaches and strategies consistent with the nature of content literacy. Content literacy instruction is needed for students to meet the reading comprehension, academic vocabulary, critical thinking, and academic writing demands they face across the curriculum to effectively acquire and demonstrate knowledge and learning. This course teaches which communication competencies secondary school students need to succeed at school, work and daily life. Teacher candidates develop solid understanding of the cognitive, linguistic, and literacy demands of academic text and design lessons that promote comprehension and critical and innovative thinking across the curriculum.
Prerequisite: Degree in science or mathematics or equivalent
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3130
Legal Issues in Secondary School (3,0,0)

EDTE 3130 Legal Issues in Secondary School (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students are introduced to legal issues and current laws relating to education. Topics include past, current, and emerging legal issues; teacher and institutional liability; students' rights; and teachers' rights and responsibilities. Case studies from the education system will be examined. Special emphasis is placed on the issues relating to safely managing the learning environment and safe work practices.
Prerequisite: Admission into the B.Ed. Teacher Education Program
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3140
Organizing and Managing Technology Learning Facilities (2,0,0)

EDTE 3140 Organizing and Managing Technology Learning Facilities (2,0,0)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course provides instruction in the planning, organization, and management of several types of shop or mathematics and science related education facilities. The scope of this course encompasses the preparation for instruction in a shop or laboratory which includes a complete plan of organization, safety, and management showing the necessary equipment, materials, and supplies. Methods of purchasing, budgeting, financial control, inventory procedures, and problems related to a shop or laboratory learning environment management are included. Participants are introduced to software to organize and track equipment, materials, supplies, budgets and expenditures.
Prerequisite: Admission into the B.Ed. Teacher Education Program
For more information, search for this course here.

EDAR 4200
Teacher Action Research (3,0,0) (3,0,0)

EDAR 4200 Teacher Action Research (3,0,0) (3,0,0)

Credits: 6 credits
Delivery: Campus

***Please note: EDAR 4200 is a year long course offered over two semesters.*** From class lectures and discussions over two semesters, teacher candidates have the opportunity to develop and conduct a small research project in an area of interest that they develop on practicum through consultation with their instructor, faculty mentor, teacher mentor and principal. Findings from teacher candidates' action research studies are presented at a public poster presentation at the end of the program.
Prerequisite: Admission to Bachelor of Education (Secondary) program.
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3430
Practicum 3 (60 hours)

EDTE 3430 Practicum 3 (60 hours)

Credits: 2 credits
Delivery: Campus

In this practicum, for trades and technical teacher candidates, the emphasis is on teaching outside of the individual student's trade area of expertise; however, for science and mathematics teacher candidates the emphasis is on teaching inside their area of expertise. Participants assume teaching responsibilities in secondary courses while being closely supervised by a qualified and experienced secondary education teacher. Students are placed individually for this practicum.
Prerequisite: EDTE 3420 - Practicum 2
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3440
Practicum 4 (3,0,0)

EDTE 3440 Practicum 4 (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

For trades and technical teacher candidates, the emphasis is on teaching outside of their individual trade area of expertise. For science and mathematics teacher candidates, the emphasis is on teaching in their area of expertise. Participants assume teaching responsibilities in secondary courses while being closely supervised by a qualified and experienced secondary education teacher. Students are placed individually for this practicum.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Practicum 3
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3450
Practicum 5 (90 hours)

EDTE 3450 Practicum 5 (90 hours)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This practicum experience takes place in the winter semester. The emphasis is on working with the range of students and specific learning needs found within a secondary education environment. Participants assume teaching responsibilities, focusing on instructional and classroom management adaptations for the diverse needs of learners. Teacher candidates are closely supervised by a qualified and experienced secondary education teacher and are placed individually for this practicum. During this time, teacher candidates work with school staff, counsellors and other professionals who may be working with specific students.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Practicum 3 and 4
For more information, search for this course here.

Summer 2 - May and June
EDAR 4200
Teacher Action Research II

EDAR 4200 Teacher Action Research (3,0,0) (3,0,0)

Credits: 6 credits
Delivery: Campus

***Please note: EDAR 4200 is a year long course offered over two semesters.*** From class lectures and discussions over two semesters, teacher candidates have the opportunity to develop and conduct a small research project in an area of interest that they develop on practicum through consultation with their instructor, faculty mentor, teacher mentor and principal. Findings from teacher candidates' action research studies are presented at a public poster presentation at the end of the program.
Prerequisite: Admission to Bachelor of Education (Secondary) program.
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3180
History of Education (3,0,0)

EDTE 3180 History of Education (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

The relationships between schools and society are complex and contradictory. Students examine the changingrelationships between schools and society, this course will provide insights into individuals and groups that havedetermined both what kinds of schools should exist and what should happen in them. This course considersIndigenous perspectives and ways of knowing and the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Lenses relevant to social justice issues including, cultural, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, religion andsocioeconomic diversity will be explored.
Prerequisite: Admission into the Bachelor of Education program
Note: students cannot receive credit for more than one of EDTE 3180, EDTE 3181 and EDEF 3100
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 3190
Philosophy of Education (3,0,0)

EDTE 3190 Philosophy of Education (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course introduces students to the comparative and critical study of the philosophical frameworks related to education and schooling (e.g. realism, pragmatism, behaviourism, existentialism) and their representative thinkers. This course is designed to help students examine the diverse educational views that have affected, and are affecting, schooling in Canada and British Columbia. Participants will reflect on their developing educational philosophy through readings, discussions and lectures.
Prerequisite: Admission into the Bachelor of Education program
Exclusion: EDEF
For more information, search for this course here.

EDTE 4110
Professional Growth and Development (3,1,0)

EDTE 4110 Professional Growth and Development (3,1,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students analyze, synthesize and reflect on their experiences as learners in this program to create a professional portfolio which documents their professional and personal growth as secondary education teachers. Through consideration of their experiences prior to enrolling and how they have grown throughout the program, students create a professional development plan for their next year. This plan identifies their strengths and areas for improvement in preparation for a secondary education teacher role. Job search techniques, beginning school year approaches, professional organizations, mentoring, and the supervision of beginning teachers is included.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of EDTE 3450
For more information, search for this course here.