Educational Studies is about more than classroom teaching. It\u2019s about understanding how education works. Education can be used for repression and social control, or for liberation. How do we educate in a way that is compassionate and effective? How can we make a difference in the world?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Macalester, we dive deep into these kinds of questions. What does it mean to learn? What does it mean when people who are trying to learn are confronted with stressful conditions such as mental health concerns, structural racism, or ineffective teachers? What are the implications of those barriers on the lives of learners and the whole of our society?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We are complex human beings trying to make our way in a challenging world. Education involves more than creating lesson plans (though you\u2019ll learn practical skills like that too). Our students walk away with the ability to implement and apply abstract concepts. They consider a person\u2019s cultural, political, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. Empathy is crucial to education. Our students infuse this skill into everything they do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our average class size is 16. Don\u2019t expect to just sit back and absorb information. Instead, you\u2019ll discuss, debate, teach, collaborate, and build community. You\u2019ll be a serious scholar, attending national conferences about topics like educational justice alongside your professors. You\u2019ll apply the theories you learn in the classroom to the real world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our interdisciplinary approach means you can customize Educational Studies to your interests. Passionate about the outdoors? Teach outdoor education to elementary schoolers at the Ordway Natural History Study Area.<\/a> Want a global perspective? Take a class about education\u2019s role in international development.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is Educational Studies at Macalester?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n