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College of Education camp teaches future educators
August 2006
While much of education-related professional development focuses on training teachers and administrators, Auburn University's Truman Pierce Institute is also focusing efforts on the future of education for Alabama's youth.
During three week-long residential camps held on the AU campus, students participated in activities taught by AU faculty and graduate students that incorporated field biology, American art, literature and music. Camp participants visited the Auburn Fisheries Stations, Donald E. Davis Arboretum, Paterson Greenhouse, Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve and Southeastern Raptor Center. They also trained in techniques for tutoring younger 21st Century students participating in after-school reading, math and environmental science programs. As a requirement of camp attendance, students are expected to work as tutors for at least 40 hours in after-school programs in their school district during the next school year.
The 21st Century Community Learning School Summer Camps are just part of TPI's research and outreach efforts devoted to studying and improving teaching and learning. A part of the College of Education, TPI secured funding through the Appalachian Regional Commission to assist impoverished rural schools to "grow their own" teachers. Specifically, the programs are geared toward encouraging high school students to consider careers in education. TPI and other Education faculty have partnered with Auburn University Outreach to provide an exciting and well-organized camp experience.
"What makes this camp so unique is its ability to give back to the community through the students' commitment to tutor others," said Dr. Cindy Reed, TPI director and an associate professor in the college. "In the three camps we have held this summer, there have been an abundance of exceptional students who will make a significant impact in their respective schools."
"The 21st Century Community Learning Camp not only aids students in learning to teach others, but it also exposes them to the college experience," said Education Dean Frances Kochan. "It is our hope that this experience, along with the other Truman Pierce Institute initiatives, will not only foster a love of teaching but also of Auburn University."
The Truman Pierce Institute is named in honor of Dr. Truman M. Pierce, who served as dean of the College of Education for two decades and credited with improving education at the state, regional and national levels. TPI strives to foster collaboration between higher education and public schools, develop partnerships, provide leadership capacity building programs for schools, and improve conditions within schools and communities that influence the effectiveness of leadership. Former TPI initiatives such as the Instructional Improvement Institute (I3) and the West Alabama Learning Coalition served to provide professional development opportunities for administrators, teachers and student leaders in rural and Black Belt areas of Alabama. Current TPI initiatives continue this work through Sustaining School Success, in addition to other programs such as 21st Century after school program, Connections, the Auburn City Schools Leadership Capacity Building Program and supporting the efforts of the Alabama Black Belt Superintendents' Association.Last Updated: May 12, 2011
