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Professor Serves as Consultant for College Board

Posted on Thursday, May 11, 2006

Dr. Patricia Clark, Westminster assistant professor of history, recently served as a consultant for the College Board Advanced Placement Best Practices Course Study conducted by the Center for Educational Policy Research held at the University of Oregon.

"I was a document rater in the subject area of world history," Clark said.  "This involved evaluating course materials such as syllabi and exams used in introductory world history courses at colleges and universities around the country to determine 'best practices' courses.  Best practices courses are exemplary models in three areas: the topics and themes covered; the cognitive skills developed; and the teaching methods employed in the course.  Outstanding courses covered world history topics and themes not only in breadth, but also in depth; taught a wide range of research and study skills; and utilized innovative teaching methodologies."

"The study's goal is to develop high school Advanced Placement courses that better reflect college curricula," Clark added.  "Considering what constitutes an effective history course has helped me to reflect on my own teaching methods and course development."

Clark, who has been with Westminster College since 2004, earned her undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, and master's and Ph.D. from the University of Illinois.

Contact Clark at (724) 946-7248 or e-mail clarkpg@westminster.edu for more information.

Dr. Patricia Clark