The Teacher Education program of Bluefield State College draw a majority of its students from a region comprised of seven southern West Virginia counties, which may be described as a primarily rural, Appalachian highland area. This clearly defined service area makes possible a succinct role description for the teachers prepared by Bluefield State College.

Teacher Education graduates of Bluefield State College are prepared specifically to be managers of the learning environment for pupils coming from the various sociological, economic, and cultural backgrounds that characterize the population of this region. These graduates are competent to select and assemble appropriate learning resources and to assess students’ needs. They are trained to make good use of, and reflect upon, their knowledge of the physiological, intellectual, social, and emotional potentialities of students at various stages of development. Bluefield State College Teacher Education graduates are resourceful in devising and supervising learning activities which efficiently utilize the time and energy as well as effectively develop the skills and talents of students.

The goal of the Teacher Education programs at Bluefield State College is to place in the classroom qualified, competent, and effective teachers. The program must be flexible enough to encompass individual needs, changes in direction as dictated by new programs or emphasis areas, and exploration and experimentation.

The Teacher Education programs at Bluefield State College are derived from a model that can be described as the Cooperative Reflective Manager of the learning environment. The programs seek to enhance both the professional and the individual development of the prospective teacher in the following areas:

1. Essential knowledge in cognitive areas.
   1. Understanding and appreciation of Western culture and its societal composition.
   2. Development of scholarship in one or more Teacher Education areas.
   3. Comprehension and appreciation of the particular regional characteristics of Southern West Virginia and Southwest Virginia.
2. Expertise and practical experience in the methods and techniques of teaching.
3. Warmth, understanding, and empathy in all areas required for humanizing education.
   1. Insight and ability in working with both children and adults.
   2. Development of a positive self-concept.
4. Readiness to assume an active role in the profession of teaching.
   1. Understanding the function of education and the role of a teacher in a democracy.
   2. The establishment of a sound and practical philosophy of education.