MUNCIE, Ind. -- Elementary school teachers in the future will be expected to perform civic services, have increased classroom experience and a broader liberal arts education.

At least those elementary school teaching majors whograduate from Ball State University's teacher education program will meet those standards.

Starting in the fall, students enrolled in Ball State's Department of Elementary Education will participate in new or expanded programs designed to make them better teachers, said Lawrence Smith, department chair.

The changes are a result of two years of examining anticipated needs of America's elementary school classrooms, he said.

"We have been producing tremendously talented teachers and early childhood education professionals," Smith said. "However, we believe that we need to improve our programs to graduate professionals that are better prepared for the rigors of teaching.

"In fact, this isn't really about our graduates," he said. "We are thinking about the children in the classroom who deserve the best teachers that Ball State can educate. We think these changes will accomplish the goal."

Smith believes a civic responsibility program is a major addition for the department's majors.

Starting in the fall, freshmen will enroll in "Education in a Democratic Society," which emphasizes civic service. Each student will donate a minimum 50 hours during the semester. Department officials are working with area schools, non-profit agencies and businesses to establish civic engagement programs.

"We think that teachers should be civic minded because they are a central part of any community in which they live," Smith said. "It will also give majors an opportunity to work in areas in which they have an interest, such as a wellness facility, symphony orchestra or historical society."

Other changes include:

• Junior year classroom practicum expands from one to two semesters, providing students with more "real" experience. Ball State students work in classrooms at Burris Laboratory School, a K-12 public school operated on campus.

• Strengthening general studies classes to meet university-wide standards, providing an improved and balanced liberal education.

• Strengthening partnerships with area school districts and educational agencies to improve the department's relationship with outside organizations.

• Ending the practice of student teaching as the last college experience. Starting in 1998-99, students may no longer participate in the student teaching program after completing all classes for graduation.

"We think that students should return to campus to reflect on what they just encountered," Smith said. "They can discuss the situation with their instructors and fellow students, allowing others to learn from their experience."