University - TCS Partnership

As part of the School of Education at the University of Delaware, The College School capitalizes on the assistance and expertise of the University's faculty and staff. Faculty and students in departments such as education, technology, school psychology, clinical psychology, nursing, physical education, and music assist The College School teachers in designing and implementing innovative instructional programs for their classrooms. Graduate and undergraduate students in these areas work directly with College School teachers and students to increase the range of services and experiences available during the school day.

The College School serves a unique role in the University community. As a laboratory school for University students and faculty, the school serves as a training site for University students seeking certification in regular and special education and as a research center for faculty engaged in special education research.

Each semester approximately 125 undergraduate and graduate students participate in The College School's program. Students majoring in education assist classroom teachers while completing practicums at The College School. Four University graduate students fulfill assistantship requirements at TCS and a school psychology graduate student completes a practicum at TCS each semester. In addition, many University students work as tutors with College School students. Each child in The College School has his or her own assigned tutor(s) or mentor(s) for an entire semester.

Examples of recent University partnerships include:

• The Panorama Project
  During spring 2006, students in grades 6-8 participated in The Panorama Project under the guidance of Professor Eric Eslinger. This long-term study looks at how students learn science content and understand the nature of science in an inquiry-oriented classroom. Dr. Eslinger has developed novel software that scaffolds student learning as they engage in inquiry projects. This unique learning experience culminated in a science fair which showcased students creative application of knowledge.
  
  
• University of Delaware Pilot Study on Student Writing
  During spring 2006, Dr. Rachel Klein and Dr. Charles MacArthur, professors in the School of Education, piloted a writing study at The College School. This study investigated the effects of electronic concept mapping on students' compare-contrast essays.
  
  
• University of Delaware Summer Literacy Tutoring Program
  Under the guidance of Professor Rachel Klein, selected primary age students participated in a practicum with M.Ed in Reading graduate students. Graduate tutors employed researched-based assessments and instructional strategies targeting each student’s individual literacy needs.

In summary, The College School and the University of Delaware participate in a partnership that is mutually beneficial and that positively impacts on each student enrolled in the school.