Applied – non-lecture method of teaching that strongly
emphasizes but is not limited to, high level, hands-on activities that
promote/illustrate the practical usefulness of one or more skills.
Integration of Academic and Vocational Education
Integrated – blending of two or more disciplines connecting
state standards within one activity. For Tech Prep purposes, “a discipline”
is mathematics, science, English and/or vocational. Integrated activities
“may” include other disciplines such as social studies, technology, the
arts, etc. in addition to mathematics, science, English and/or vocational.
Also, for Tech Prep purposes, integrated activities must be academic to
vocational for at least 50% of the district/consortium requirements.
Contextual Teaching
Contextual Teaching – “According to the contextual
learning theory, learning occurs only when students process new information
or knowledge in such a way that it makes sense to them in their own frames
of reference (their own inner worlds of memory, experience and response).
…(the) contextual learning theory encourages educators to choose and/or
design learning environments that incorporate as many different forms of
experience as possible…in working toward the desired learning outcomes.
In such an environment, students discover meaningful relationships between
abstract ideas and practical applications in the context of the real world.”
The ABC’s of Tech Prep, a User’s Manual, CORD, 1999.
Occupational Clusters of Study
-
Agriculture/Natural Resources
Technology
-
Construction
-
Arts, Audio-Video Technology
& Communications
-
Business & Administrative
Services
-
Education & Training Services
-
Financial Services
-
Public Administration/Government
-
Health Science
-
Hospitality & Tourism
-
Human Services
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Information Technology Services
-
Legal & Protective Services
-
Manufacturing
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Retail/Wholesale Sales &
Services
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Scientific Research, Engineering
& Technical Services
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Transportation, Distribution
& Logistics Services
Worksite Experiences
An integral part of the Tech
Prep Initiative is worksite experience. This work experience provides
occupational-specific training. Students can participate in worksite
experiences through Cooperative Education at the secondary level and Work-Based
Learning at the postsecondary level.
Innovative Courses
Career
Discovery Course Description:
Career Discovery at the seventh grade level introduces
students to career opportunities and the skills needed for various career
paths. The course uses an experiential hands-on approach to make
learning more relevant and meaningful for students; it is designed to provide
a variety of experiences and activities that promote self-awareness, self-management
skills, leadership and teamwork, career exploration, and educational planning
related to students’ future educational and occupational plans. This
course is not intended to force a premature career decision; rather, it
focuses on an exploration of personal development and the awareness of
career choices and pathways to achieve individual career goals. As
hands-on and technology-based opportunities are provided for students to
explore the sixteen career cluster areas (as identified by the U.S. Department
of Education), students become aware of career alternatives and transferability
of skills within a cluster and between clusters. Field trips, exposure
to career professionals, and other educational enhancements will be utilized
as appropriate. As students become more aware of their own talents,
abilities, and interests, they are encouraged to develop career and educational
plans to outline their future endeavors.
To view the Career Discovery/Family & Consumer Sciences web site
go to:
www.mde.k12.ms.us/ovte/instdev/FCSwebpage.html
To download the Career Discovery curriculum go to:
www.rcu.msstate.edu/curric_form.htm
Computer
Discovery Course Description:
Computer Discovery at the eighth
grade level uses an innovative multimedia environment to allow students
to explore and apply computer applications in the modern workplace and
make subject matter come alive. This course is designed to provide
fundamental skills in the operation of microcomputers, including an introduction
to computers, keyboarding skills, and using Windows. Real-world applications
in word processing, graphics, databases, telecommunications, spreadsheets,
desktop publishing, and multimedia presentations make the course exciting,
relevant, and challenging. Each student will compile a Computer Discovery
portfolio of computer projects. This course will integrate career
clusters and communication, mathematics, and science skills. This
course will also include expanded basics in problem solving, decision making,
critical thinking, human relations, career exploration, planning and organization
skills to prepare students for future careers.
To view the Computer Discovery web site go to:
http://www.mde.k12.ms.us/ovte/instdev/BCTpage.html
To download the Computer Discovery curriculum go to:
http://www.rcu.msstate.edu/pdf/99discov/computer.pdf
Technology
Discovery Course Description:
-
is a state-of-the-art technology
course for ninth graders
-
explores technology resources, processes,
and systems
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utilizes research, visualization,
modeling, design, simulation, prototyping, journalizing, presentations,
demonstrations, problem-solving techniques, role-playing, and testing
Science
and Technology Course Description:
-
is a technology course for postsecondary
students at Mississippi's community and junior colleges
-
utilizes technological resources
related to advanced computer applications, biotechnology, electrical and
electronic systems, automation, microcomputer assembly and operating systems,
multimedia communication, laser and fiber optics, and telecommunications
systems
Career Planning
Career
Centers- are easily accessible by high school students and provide
current occupational/career information as well as various inventories,
assessments, videos, software, and Internet access.
Teacher-Advisors-
serve as a link between professional guidance services and the student.
Advisors assist students in career development process, test preparation
and character education activities.
Mississippi's
Career Educational Process - allows every student the opportunity
to explore careers, develop career pathways and select higher educaiton
or training options. Career development software is available grades
7 - 12 to facilitate the completion of required activities. These
are done in the classroom as well as the career center. Certain documents
are compiled at the senior year to show students' accomplishments as they
prepare for college and the workplace.
Articulation
Articulation
creates a smooth transition from high school to community/junior colleges
or the workforce. Institutions work together to coordinate instructional
content, provide advanced placement, and create sequential courses of study.
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