Description
The Degree of the Department of Primary Education of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki constitutes a higher education qualification of four years’ duration, awarded upon successful completion of an undergraduate programme in education sciences and primary education.
Relation to Employment
Graduates of the Degree in Primary Education from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki possess pedagogical and teaching competence for instruction in Primary Education and obtain the professional rights to practice the teaching profession as primary school teachers. They are classified in the PE70 Teachers’ sector.
Access Requirements / Progression Opportunities
Admission to the program requires a high school diploma and successful participation in national-level examinations.
Knowledge
Graduates of the Department are expected to possess knowledge of the fundamental educational theories, teaching methodologies, and contemporary trends in education, as well as the ways these can be applied in diverse learning environments. They develop knowledge related to the design, organization, and evaluation of educational programs, learning activities, and instructional materials, making use of modern teaching and learning strategies as well as ICT tools. In addition, they acquire knowledge of key concepts and approaches in educational policy and are able to understand the relationships between educational theory, policy, and institutional frameworks. They also possess knowledge of methods for searching, processing, and analyzing information, as well as the basic principles of educational research. Finally, graduates are familiar with the principles of inclusive and intercultural education, equal opportunities, and the management of diversity in the learning process, aiming to create equitable and supportive learning environments for all students.
Skills
Graduates of the Department are expected to develop the ability to apply pedagogical and teaching knowledge in diverse learning environments by planning and implementing effective instructional practices. They are able to organize, manage, and evaluate educational activities, programs, and teaching materials, making use of modern teaching strategies. In addition, they demonstrate skills in critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of information, as well as the ability to search for, process, and utilize information from a variety of sources. They are also able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to collaborate with students, parents, colleagues, and other members of the educational community, working both independently and as part of a team. Finally, graduates demonstrate creativity, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to make informed decisions in educational contexts.
Competences
Upon completion of the Undergraduate Study Program (USP), students are expected to develop the ability to apply their knowledge in diverse learning environments, understanding the roles of the different participants in the learning process and using educational theories and methodologies to design, implement, and evaluate educational activities, programs, and teaching materials, while utilizing modern teaching strategies. At the same time, they develop abilities for abstract thinking, critical analysis, and synthesis of educational theories and policies, enabling them to identify connections between educational theory, policy, and practice. In addition, they cultivate abilities in effective oral and written communication, information searching, processing, and analysis from multiple sources, as well as the ability to conduct educational research. Finally, they develop the ability to generate new ideas, solve problems, and make informed decisions, while also being able to work both independently and collaboratively and demonstrate awareness of diversity, equal opportunities, and inclusive practices in the learning process.