Methodology: Back-up degree
In evaluating Illinois' teacher preparation programs, evidence was sought that elementary teacher candidates completed a content specialization in an academic subject area. Such evidence could be the requirement of an academic major or at least 18 semester hours of coursework that would count toward a major in a single academic discipline other than education. Methods coursework was not counted, useful as it might be, since it does not satisfy either rationale for the standard. The fact that upper division courses were or were not required was not a consideration.
