Available Classes

In-depth examination of fundamental mathematical concepts and subject-specific pedagogy, focusing on whole numbers and their operations, algebraic thinking in the early grades, and measurement. Content emphasizes and integrates state and national standards, problem-solving approaches, use of manipulatives and technology, current research and learning theory.

Introduction to the American educational system. Explores the philosophical, sociological, historical, and political roots of schools today. Attention also given to the legal status of teachers and students, including federal and state laws and regulations, school as an organization/culture, and contemporary issues in education. Explores professionalism, ethics, performance standards, and integrity for teachers.

Introduces students to the wide range of diversity that exists in schools today. Explores diverse learning styles and students' needs, and connections to cultures, communities, and family values as well as student support through trauma informed care. Provides theoretical underpinnings and contemporary perspective on critical issues, professional practices, and state and federal laws influencing the teaching of students with diverse learning needs, including specific learning disabilities (SLD) such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and auditory processing disorders. Note: Field experience required.

Participants will build capacity in coaching and mentoring by engaging in authentic conversations and practical application activities with colleagues. The course text and selected readings provide foundational knowledge for practice and reflection on progress through individual and group activities during class and in school settings. Upon completion of the course, participants will have increased confidence and skill in facilitating coaching conversations as well as tools to continue developing themselves in the art of coaching.

In-depth examination of the teaching methods, literacy concepts and development, and materials which are utilized to support and scaffold children's literacy acquisition from birth to the primary grades. Addresses a foundational understanding of the components of reading including phonemic awareness, concepts of print, phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing. Examines early literacy assessment tools and how to implement interventions for diverse learners. Investigates language development, children's literature, and classroom strategies for early literacy instruction. Note: Field experience required.

Introduction to testing, measurement, and evaluation related to instruction, the construction and use of teacher-made tests, a survey of standardized tests, test interpretation, and basic statistical procedures.

EDUC 542U

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.

Effective classroom and behavior management skills to build individual responsibility and self-discipline, promote self-regulation, and maintain a positive learning environment. Research-based classroom and behavior management techniques, classroom community building, positive behavior supports, and individual interventions. Note: Field experience required.

EDUC 507U or EDUC 542U

This course examines the social, emotional, and psychological aspects of gifted children, adolescents, and adults. The course reviews current literature on affective growth and potential adjustment issues such as self-concept, self-acceptance and understanding, peer relations, and perfectionism. Family relations and potential sources of problems such as underachievement and career and college planning are also included. Classroom adjustments to facilitate development will also be reviewed.

This course provides information on the history of exceptional students in relation to education, current law, and accepted methods for referral, assessment, and identification. It covers major program models and methods of differentiating instruction to meet the rate and level of learning of those students identified. The course gives the learner an understanding of ways to meet the affective needs of the gifted and talented student in the regular classroom and lists resources for teachers and parents who would like more information about the talented and gifted.

This course provides students with critical information and hands-on practice regarding the developmentvand implementation of the Individual Education Program (IEP), the federally required document that describes all the components of special education services and safeguards for students with disabilities. Participants will learn regulatory background, essential components, procedural requirements, implementation practices, and monitoring strategies that support effective IEP implementation and lead to positive student outcomes. Participants will analyze and evaluate IEPs, gaining expertise in IEP development and implementation.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the value and impact of building social, emotional, and behavioral skills to create a resilient classroom environment and enhance instructional effectiveness. Topics include an overview of resilience and social-emotional competence, best practices for skill instruction and acquisition, integrating social-emotional skills into instructional planning and delivery, promoting schoolwide generalization of these skills, and applying them to support student agency, mental well-being, and college/career readiness.

Reflect on the best practices and research related to teaching writing effectively. The course includes an in-depth look at writing workshops and considers teaching strategies focusing on the steps of the writing process and different forms of writing (narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, and informational). Class sessions focus on discovering inspiring teaching strategies for classroom practice. Participants will also explore the connection between reading and writing instruction and learn how to include writing across the content areas.

The course provides a survey of children's literature with emphasis on recent trends and evaluative criteria used in selecting books based on school and recreational needs and interests of young readers. Course participants will explore multiple genres, including historical fiction, realistic fiction, fantasy, traditional literature, nonfiction, and multicultural, and ways of integrating these books into curricula.

Introduction to differentiated instruction and examination of why it is appropriate for all learners, how to plan for it, and how to become comfortable enough with student differences to make school comfortable for every learner in the classroom.