RPED - EDFN 102 - Introduction to Education - Fall 2026

About this course - EDFN 102 is a foundational look at the teaching profession. You'll explore the history and purpose of schools, what a teacher's day actually looks like, the different pathways into teaching, and the role teachers play in rural communities. The course also includes field experience, where you observe in a real classroom and talk with practicing teachers. Field experience comes with a stipend. By the end, you'll have a clearer sense of whether teaching is right for you, plus three college credits to show for it.

What you'll cover - The course is organized into three units: Foundations of Education, Life as a Teacher, and Exploring Education. You'll develop your own teaching philosophy, look at career pathways into the profession, and examine both the realities and the common misconceptions about teaching.

Credits and cost - EDFN 102 is worth three university credits through the University of South Dakota. RPED students pay a reduced rate of $40 per credit, compared to USD's standard rate of $330 per credit.

What to expect - This course is online and fully self-paced. There is no set meeting time and no fixed weekly schedule, so there is nothing to fall behind on. You complete the work when it fits your life. Most students find that a steady pace of about one module per week works well, but the flexibility is real.

Grading is mastery-based. Rather than accumulating points, you show that you've met clear success criteria for each unit. If something doesn't meet a criterion the first time, you get specific feedback and can revise until it does.

How to enroll - Enrolling takes two separate steps. Both are required.

• Step 1: Apply for USD dual credit. More info on USD enrollment at https://compass.bhssc.org/rped. 
• Step 2: Enroll in the Canvas course using this listing

Key dates

• Course starts: August 24, 2026
• Enrollment deadline: September 3, 2026
• Course ends: December 16, 2026

Questions? Contact Brady Licht at blicht@bhssc.org.