How do Columbia College Teacher Candidates differ from teacher candidates in other colleges?

Our theme, Collaborative Professional, capitalizes upon the uniqueness of Columbia College and reflects the changing roles of professional educators. The College is committed to the concepts of community and collaboration in a professional environment. The Professional Education Faculty believes that the primary responsibility of the teacher is to plan and manage an environment in which children and youth are actively learning. As a Collaborative Professional, our students will combine an understanding of learners and learning with subject matter competence to enhance the construction of knowledge by children and youth.

However, the Collaborative Professional must be prepared to do more than teach. As students, schools and society change, teachers must be able to work with fellow teachers, parents, student service personnel, community leaders and administrators to ensure that each child receives the best education possible. Of course, Columbia College students must be reflective in their teaching and capable of assuming leadership roles. Collaborative Professionals are unique in their ability to work with others to teach children and promote positive changes in the lives of children.