In-Person Courses

In-depth examination of fundamental science concepts and subject-specific pedagogy, focusing on Earth, life, and physical sciences, the nature of science and scientific inquiry, the social and cultural significance of science, the relationship of science to technology, and the historical development of scientific concepts and scientific reasoning. Course content emphasizes and integrates state and national standards, problem-solving approaches, curriculum integration strategies, content area literacy, and current research.

In-depth examination of fundamental social studies concepts and subject-specific pedagogy, focusing on history, geography, economics, and civics. Course content emphasizes instructional design and integrates state and national standards, project-based learning approaches, curriculum integration strategies, content area literacy, and current research.

EDUC 507U

In-depth examination of fundamental mathematical concepts and subject-specific pedagogy, focusing on rational numbers, algebraic thinking, geometry, probability, and statistics. Content emphasizes meeting the needs of struggling students and integrates state and national standards, problem-solving approaches, use of manipulatives and technology, current research, and learning theory. A supervised practical experience using a Response to Intervention (RTI) approach will be incorporated into the course. Emphasis will be placed on using data to make decisions based upon students' needs, monitor progress, and develop individualized mathematical interventions. Note: Field experience required.

EDUC 510U

In-depth examination of reading comprehension, vocabulary development, critical thinking, word study, and writing instruction within elementary classrooms. Exploration across the components of reading of the methods, materials, and assessment tools associated with elementary literacy instruction. Examines assessment tools and learn techniques for meeting the needs of struggling readers. A supervised practical experience will be incorporated into the course. Emphasis is placed on making decisions based upon students' individual needs and critical reflection to improve instructional effectiveness. Analysis of assessment data and use of this information to inform instructional practices including developing reading and writing interventions. Studies effective literacy techniques designed to support diverse learners. Note: Field experience required.

EDUC 524U

Comprehensive introduction to pedagogy to include principles of learning; application of skills in discipline and grade-specific methodology; selection and use of materials; state and national curriculum standards; and evaluation of student performance.

In-depth exploration of content-specific teaching techniques for planning, teaching and assessing in the middle and secondary classroom. This course combines lecture-based course instruction with in-field experience with content-based teachers in middle and secondary classroom settings. Note: Field experience required.

Examination of reading, writing and critical thinking in secondary content areas. Specific techniques for teaching and assessing comprehensions, vocabulary knowledge, and study skills will be addressed. The effects of text organization and relationship between reading and writing are investigated. The course integrates theory with practice and is designed to help content area instructors learn how to integrate literacy principles into subject matter instruction. A strong emphasis will be placed on the elements of effective comprehension instruction. Literacy techniques designed to support the needs of diverse learners will be studied. Participants will learn strategies to foster motivation and appreciation of a variety of types of literature utilized for independent and collaborative reading. Note: Field experience required.

Direct contact with students in a classroom on a full-time basis for 15 weeks under the direction of a cooperating teacher and a University supervisor. Student assumes full teacher responsibility for all instructional periods and school activities.

Completion of all professional studies coursework.

Culminating clinical experience of teacher preparation for those who participate in the STEP Residency program. Residents spend a full academic year as the teacher-of-record in a partnering school division Title 1 classroom. A specially trained resident coach provides support throughout the school day to two residents placed at the same school site. Students must take two semesters of the Teaching Residency in order to complete the residency program.

This weekly seminar for student teachers provides a forum for discussion and examination of critical issues related to students' teaching responsibilities and competence. Also provides guidance in the preparation of the Teacher Work Sample.

Completion of all professional studies coursework.

A survey of the fundamental leadership theories and models as they apply to educational leadership. Includes historical and contemporary conceptions, collaborative case study work on current educational leadership approaches, personal reflection and leadership development, and bridging theory and practice in twenty-first century schools.

A survey of tools and techniques used in conducting and utilizing assessment data. Includes current research approaches, project design, and data collection. Also included are methods for using data to identify school needs, evaluate personnel, track student performance, and develop strategies for increasing performance as necessary.

This course will prepare students to effectively oversee instructional practices in their school. These include aligning curriculum and instruction with assessment to achieve high academic success, innovative instructional techniques, strategies for monitoring instruction and providing feedback, and encouraging academic freedom and innovation while respecting benchmarks and standards.

This course will examine the legal and moral aspects of educational leadership. Includes evolution of school law, major ethical spheres of thought, current trends and school law, and critical thinking and problem-solving strategies. Course will utilize case studies and consider Virginia School Code.

The second of two required seminars to complete the practicum. Students will continue the reflective process by studying leadership first-hand in a school. Students will spend a minimum of 170 hours in a designated school and regularly report on a series of online reflection prompts addressing various issues affecting educational leadership.

Review of basic knowledge and skills required for reading, interpreting, and evaluating, followed by the examination of step-by-step procedures for planning, implementing, and evaluating classroom research.

This course focuses on academic writing, critical reading, and research. Throughout the semester, it will require students to write on a range of topics for a variety of purposes and audiences, emphasizing writing as a process. It will also introduce a broad array of texts that are intended to improve students' critical reading skills. Finally, it will include training in research and proper methods of documentation.

Satisfactory ACCUPLACER score or completion of ENGL 101U with a grade of 'C' or better.

Focuses on the origins, size, scope and composition of the nonprofit sector; operational issues encountered in the management of nonprofits; and the development of strategic solutions to manage and move the sector forward. Topics include theory, public policy, advocacy, management, collaboration, culture, strategy and innovation.

Focuses on assessing financial performance, establishing policies for fiscal accountability, financial management, including budgeting, resource development, outcomes measurement, assessment, technology, and capital project analysis.

A comprehensive overview of how to strategically align an organization with a defined mission; focusing on partnerships with the board, staff, collaborative partners, and volunteers. Includes organizational assessments, leadership assessment, and HR management strategies for future sustainability and growth.

NPS 501U

Explores public policy and the policy making process as it relates to the nonprofit sector, including from a comparative perspective. Includes an examination of advocacy and lobbying.

NPS 501U

Centers engagement with communities as a fundamental building block for nonprofits as they work to address complicated and multi-dimensional social problems in sustainable, comprehensive ways. Emphasizes skill development in the process of designing community engagement efforts to achieve common goals. Explores the elements, use and effectiveness of coalitions, collaborations, and partnerships. Connects the process of community engagement to leadership skills and to the improvement of policies, programs, and practices of nonprofit organizations and other institutions.

NPS 501U

Integrative seminar with community-based learning project (or critical issues facing nonprofits). This course integrates the skills and knowledge obtained within the curriculum.

NPS 501U and NPS 520U