The Associate of Arts degree in Education is designed to provide individuals who are interested in becoming teachers an opportunity to progress toward the bachelor’s degree while working to fulfill undergraduate requirements and completing introductory course work in the Teacher Preparation Program. Those who are currently teacher’s aides or are interested in becoming teacher’s aides will find the required curriculum very beneficial in developing their professional skills and informing their practice.  Courses taken for the Associate degree may apply to the Bachelor’s degree in Education (K-8).

As you proceed through your course of study, you are expected to achieve the Alaska Beginning Teacher Standards that are reflected in the following Professional Competencies: 

• Philosophy and Approach (PA) :  Describe personal research-based philosophy of education and apply it in the classroom with consistent teaching strategies and practices.
• Developmental Stages (DS) :  Understand how students learn and develop and apply that knowledge to individuals and groups in classroom practice.
• Diverse Cultures and Needs (DCN) :  Teach students with respect for their individual and cultural characteristics to promote learning and communication.
• Content Knowledge and Strategies (CKS) :  Knows the teacher’s content areas and how to teach them using age appropriate strategies to develop student knowledge, skills, and understandings applicable to real world situations; this includes accurate information, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and use of technology.
• Assessment Guides Instruction (AGI) :  Facilitates, monitors, and assesses student learning to inform students and families of progress and needs; encourages student self-assessment; uses individual and group performance to guide instruction (formative and summative assessment); and maintains accurate records.
• Positive Learning Environment (PLE) :  Creates and maintains a positive learning environment that is physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe in which all students can learn, and are actively engaged, contributing members.
• Partnerships and Real-life Connections (PRC) :  Works as a partner with parents, families, and the community.
• Professionalism, Ethics, and Growth (PEG) :  Participates in and contributes to the teaching profession, complies with standards, laws and Code of Ethics, and engages in continuous professional growth.

As well, as a graduate, you will earn an Associate of Arts degree with demonstrated achievement in APU’s Essential Competencies:  Effective Communication; Critical Thinking; Cultural & Historical Perspective; Scientific Inquiry; and Ethical Engagement.