Available Classes

Explores theory and pedagogy of integrating all arts form (visual, music, drama, dance, literary) across the curriculum and throughout the teaching and learning environment. Includes best practices, skill building, and exploration of resources to provide educators the tools and ability to effectively address and variety of students' learning styles while promoting curiosity, mastery of content and collaborative problem-solving skills.

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.

EDUC 506U

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.

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.

In-depth examination of the teaching methods, literacy concepts and development, and materials that are used to support and scaffold children's literacy acquisition from birth to the primary grades. A foundational understanding of the components of reading including phonemic awareness, concepts of print, phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing will be addressed. Participants will examine early literacy assessment tools and will determine how to implement interventions for diverse learners. Language development, children's literature, and classroom strategies for early literacy instruction will also be investigated.

Instructional design is the systematic and reflective process of translating principles of learning and instruction into plans for instructional materials, activities, information, resources and evaluation (Smith, 1999). This course combines knowledge of learning theory with technology skills to maximize the effectiveness of instructional design. Using hands on learning experiences students will acquire knowledge of instructional methods, digital tools and the principles of design.

EDUC 542U or EDUC 507U

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.

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.

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.

Gain an understanding of the origins and evolution of critical social justice theory. Through various hands-on activities and experiences, participants will be provided with opportunities to develop a historical perspective of the inequities that plague our communities and to engage in their own practice of uncovering hidden bias. Practical applications of the theory and understanding gained will culminate in the development of an educational mission statement along with resources to be used and shared in real educational settings.

Participants will build capacity in coaching and mentoring by engaging in authentic conversations and practical application activities with peers. The course text and selected readings will 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.

This course will extend your instructional skills and expand your backpack of strategies to support how the brain learns best. By engaging thinking skills to help students actively process information, teachers leverage the brain's executive functions to deepen student understanding and meaning making. Teaching for deeper learning is the systematic and reflective process of translating principles of learning theory and instructional design into plans that promote deep and lasting learning that enhances the retention of information, leads to conceptual understanding and equips students to transfer their learning to new and unique situations.

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.

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.

This course emphasizes techniques of improving instruction through application of research on effective schools and models of instruction. Topics covered include foundations of leadership, leadership for curriculum instruction and assessment, leadership for supervision and professional development, leadership for communication and community partnerships, and leadership for organizational management.