ED 290 introduces students to the teaching profession and the interrelated historical, philosophical, legal, financial, and sociocultural contexts of American education. The rights of students and teachers, professional and ethical considerations, and how to establish equal educational opportunities for all learners will be addressed. Social, family, cultural, gender, and other related influences on student learning and achievement will be examined. Contemporary issues impacting the foundation of the educational system will be investigated. Students develop and implement appropriate environments, curriculum, and instructional and technological approaches with diverse learners in the classroom. Education in the U.S. and other countries will be researched and the commonalities and differences will be analyzed. Current and future perspectives of the teaching profession and the field of education will be considered.