Transfers ToCSUDescriptioncourse with all fieldwork hours offered in-person. This course introduces students to the concepts and issues related to teaching diverse learners in today's contemporary K-12 schools. Students examine the fundamental theories of the American educational institution within its social, political, and economic contexts. Using concepts and methods from sociology, philosophy, and the politics of education, the course analyzes the current conditions of American schools. Topics include teaching as a profession and career, the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of the American education system, contemporary educational issues (emphasizing the roles of schools in a democratic, multi-cultural society), school organization, California's content standards and frameworks, and teacher performance standards. Analysis of foundations and organization will be used to evaluate selected reform proposals. The course requires a minimum of 45 hours of structured observation/participation fieldwork in public school elementary classrooms that represent California's diverse student population, including cooperation with at least one carefully selected, campus-approved certificated classroom teacher. 