Conceptual Framework

The Viterbo University Graduate Program in Education has adopted a Teacher as Reflective Decision Maker Model and the state (Wisconsin or Iowa) and professional content standards.  Each course is designed to contribute to the development of the relevant state (Wisconsin or Iowa) and/or professional content standards. 

Franciscan values permeate the program.  The focus of every professional education course is on the learning of the PK-12 pupil.  Viterbo education courses infuse constructivist practices, use of technology, PK-12 collaboration, awareness of diversity, traditional and authentic assessment, research, and real-world experiences into the professional development of the teacher.

While the undergraduate program introduces elements of the conceptual framework, the graduate program builds on and intensifies incorporation of those elements for the professional practitioner. The reflective decision maker model permeates the graduate program from the point of entry to graduation.