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Grand Canyon University
College of Education Conceptual Framework
Grand Canyon University
College of Education
3300 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017
Dr. Kimberly A. LaPrade
Dean

College of Education Conceptual Framework
© 2011. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
February 1, 2011

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................................... 2
List of Tables and Figures....................................................................................................................................... 3
Snapshot of the Conceptual Framework ................................................................................................................. 4
Summary of the Conceptual Framework ................................................................................................................ 5
Grand Canyon University Vision and Mission ....................................................................................................... 6
College of Education (Unit) Vision and Mission ................................................................................................... 7
Unit Philosophy, Purposes, and Goals/Organizational Standards .......................................................................... 8
Learner Knowledge Base ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Teacher Candidate Proficiencies........................................................................................................................... 12
Professional Dispositions of Learners .................................................................................................................. 16
References ............................................................................................................................................................. 21

College of Education Conceptual Framework
© 2011. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
February 1, 2011

3

List of Tables and Figures
Tables
Table 1. General Education Coursework………………………………………………………......................................10
Table 2. Learner Goals and Standards Alignment……………………………………………........................................12
Table 3. Professional Dispositions and Standards Alignment………..…………………………………………………16

Figures
Figure 1. College of Education‟s Conceptual Framework……………………………………........................................4

College of Education Conceptual Framework
© 2011. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
February 1, 2011

4

Snapshot of the Conceptual Framework
Figure 1 is a visual representation of the College of Education‟s Conceptual Framework. Precondition 4.1 summarizes it as a narrative.

Figure 1. College of Education‟s Conceptual Framework

College of Education Conceptual Framework
© 2011. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
February 1, 2011

5

Summary of the Conceptual Framework
The Conceptual Framework was originally developed, adopted, and implemented by the College of Education in 2007 and significantly revised in the spring and summer of 2010.
In developing the College of Education‟s conceptual framework, faculty and administrative leadership considered first the Christian heritage of the University. This is why the Cross is at the center of the circle. A
University grounded in a Christian worldview begins with the idea that learners are created in the image of God and God-designed with certain gifts and talents, which they are responsible to use in willing service to God and fellow human beings. God has a purpose for each life and He prepares and calls individuals to that purpose.
This concept transcends and distinguishes work not as a mere occupation, but rather as a calling or vocation; in the College‟s case, for professional educators.
Rays of light