Thomas College - Center for Innovation in Education

The Center for Innovation in Education is re-envisioning teacher education that supports digital learning, STEAM, and Proficiency Based Learning in an adaptive environment that reflects a contemporary instructional approach.

Re-envisioning Teacher Education
Through the Center for Innovation in Education, Thomas College will help future teachers embed the following practices in their classrooms:

Proficiency-Based Learning
By 2018, all Maine high schools must deliver a proficiency-based diploma. As a member of the Maine Cohort for Customized Learning, Thomas College is taking advanced measures to prepare its students for this new model of learning, which includes investing in tools and faculty to position future teachers for success.

STEAM Education
In order to train teachers to be well-rounded and flexible, Thomas’ transition from STEAM embeds arts education and critical thinking into its curriculum in order to improve the national push towards Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. Included in the STEAM curriculum are courses that emphasize creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking. Currently, no other college in Maine offers a STEAM-based model.

Digital Learning
Through the Center for Innovation and Education, Thomas plans to close the gap between the possibilities of technology-driven education and the practical application of those methods in the classroom. Thomas will also lead a push to bring national subject matter experts and thought leaders to central Maine, where they can provide training and professional development to both future and practicing teachers.

By combining current technology, cutting-edge teacher practices, and dynamic classroom environments, the Center will be an agile and flexible leader in education.

In a knowledge-based, technology-driven economy, graduates who study at the Center for Innovation in Education will stand out as they enter the workforce.