Available Classes

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.

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.

This course expounds on the instructional strategies and assessment options for engaging English Learners (ELs). It also explores the impacts of culture, linguistics, and language learning principles on ELs through in-depth study and reflection.

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.

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.

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.

EDUC 507U or EDUC 542U

This course provides a critical survey of the research, issues, policy, ethics, and practices related to culturally diverse, economically disadvantaged, limited English proficient, twice exceptional, highly gifted, or very young gifted and talented students. Includes examination of topics such as personal attitudes about diversity, identification of students from special populations, differentiated instruction for students from special populations.

This course is designed to introduce teacher candidates to the variety of assessment and evaluation techniques and their specific purposes, including eligibility for students with disabilities, instructional decision making, and program improvement. This course explores the relationship among the general curriculum, formal and informal assessment results, and instruction for students with disabilities to support instructional planning, decision-making and self-reflection.

In-depth examination of the influence of adverse childhood experience and adverse community environments on psycho-social growth and brain development in young people. Emphasizes developing responsive practices to support children in overcoming adversity and thriving. Includes solution-finding practices that can be used as crisis intervention, behavior support, co-creation of positive outcomes, and clarification of young people's hope for the future. Project will be incorporated into the course with emphasis placed on reflection and practice.

Involves full time teaching and working closely with a mentor/coach to further develop skills in curriculum planning and delivery, reflection and self-assessment. Encompasses an entire semester.