School of Education

Graduate Education Grants

The Social Studies-Language Arts LINKS (SS-LA) project, funded by the Dwight D. Eisenhower Professional Development Program, represents a collaboration between Community School District 11 (Bronx), and Manhattan College. The goals of this project encompasses: the training of new and uncertified teachers, improvement of Social Studies and Language Arts instruction; the infusion of interactive technology into the teaching delivery system; establishment of a shared vision between general, bilingual and special education which is characterized by a collaborative and a joint effort to improve instruction. The program employs a collaborative consultation model. Since general, bilingual and special education teachers have limited knowledge of the new curriculum mandates, this program addresses the need for an innovative interdisciplinary approach to Social Studies and Language Arts instruction.

The three-credit graduate course incorporates recommendations from the NYS Content and Performance Standards in Social Studies and Language Arts, long range technology plan in the New compact for Learning, as well as standards of the National Council of Social Studies and National Geography Alliance. Connections between the disciplines are emphasized. Curriculum is designed around Social Studies themes. Lessons utilize diverse materials and focus on contributions of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Teachers are trained to encourage students to apply problem-solving skills and connect ideas across the disciplines. Instructional technology, namely, laser disc, and interactive computer technology are an integral component of this course.

An active approach to learning is reflected in the implementation of this project. Instruction includes a variety of opportunities for discovery and cooperative learning through the use of multi-sensory materials and constructivist hands-on experiences at the Manhattan College Learning Center and Computer Labs. Methods and materials are selected on the basis of their versatility for accommodating students with a wide range of ability levels in the least restrictive environment. Teams of general, bilingual and special education teachers collaboratively create units, generate data bases, and develop interdisciplinary model lessons for their classes.

The project is designed to establish a partnership between the disciplines and establish a link between instruction conducted in the special education, bilingual and mainstream classroom. Emphasis is placed upon empowering and encouraging participants to become leaders to enhance the educational opportunities for at risk and disabled students within their schools. Participants will be involved with parents and students in the Saturday Academy. A spring conference will be held for administrators, teachers and parents.

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© 1999 Manhattan College
Last modified 10 February 1999, by Dr. Elizabeth M. Kosky