Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Course Descriptions
Core Courses
ED 520 Introduction to Research 3 s.h.
This seminar course covers the selection, investigation, and writing of a research topic. Students are introduced to the planning of research projects, major methods of obtaining data, descriptive statistics, statistical inferences, methods of analysis and critical evaluation of published research, and the preparation of written reports. Proposed research problems and procedures are prepared for discussion and critical analysis.
ED 522 Analysis of Teaching 3 s.h.
Presents an analysis of various teaching models and instructional designs. Lessons and clinically led experience applying course competencies are critiqued by peers and faculty so as to expand the teaching repertoire of classroom teachers.
ED 523 Curriculum Development and Evaluation 3 s.h.
Presents philosophic, psychological, and social foundations of the school curriculum as well as principles of curriculum development, curriculum design, curriculum implementation, and curriculum evaluation with an emphasis in K-12 models. A range of views both historical and current is presented along with curriculum issues, trends, and future directions, Ideological biases from traditional to pragmatic and postmodern are considered across major time frames for the 20th century and early 21 st century.
ED 578 Professional Seminar 3 s.h.
Intended as a capstone course for graduate students in the M.Ed. program. Provides students with an opportunity to focus on an educationally relevant action research project as an integrating element for knowledge and experiences acquired during their graduate programs. Recognized the validity of classroom-based inquiry and research as the basis for enhancing teaching and learning. Develops proficiency in using inquiry and reflection strategies to assist students in making instructional decisions and process changes. Affords students the opportunity to share effective classroom practices and requires study and practice in interpreting and analyzing pertinent research to promote professional growth. Encourages students to view themselves as researchers of teaching and learning and as professionals whose continued growth can best be met through inquiry, reflection, and sustained dialogue with peers. Prerequisite: ED 520 or permission of Graduate Committee.
Additional Courses
ED 501 Seminar In Critical Educational Issues 3 s.h.
Examines the current critical educational issues with special emphasis on school funding, legal issues, gender equity, curriculum and cultural issues, and school reform.
ED 517 Educational Computer Applications 3 s.h.
This course provides in-service educators (K-12) who have had little or no computer experience with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to use microcomputers as instructional tools in their classrooms. While acquiring computer skills, students will explore, use and demonstrate competence in each of the following areas: word processing, databases, spreadsheets, graphics, multimedia, instructional design, telecommunications, and major issues associated with the use of technology in education. This course will provide in-service teachers with the knowledge base to make appropriate decisions regarding the use of technology in their respective classrooms.
ED 521 Instructional Leadership Skills 3 s.h.
Involves a survey of various theories, models, and styles of leadership, followed by the application of leadership skills in teacher-pupil and teacher-colleague relationships.
ED 530 Connecting Standards, Instruction, and Assessment: Designing and Implementing Authentic Assessment In The World of Standards 3 s.h.
Provides educators with a brief review of the purpose and process of assessment and to introduce them to design options available in designing and implementing authentic assessment. Students acquire, synthesize, interpret and discuss a range of topics dealing with assessment that links standards, curriculum, instruction, and embedded assessment. Students construct and evaluate a variety of assessment tools with a particular emphasis on authentic assessment.
ED 502 Creative Response To Conflict 3 s.h.
A study of the current research in the development of a classroom environment which fosters cooperation, communication, affirmation, and problem-solving for children as well as for teachers, staff, instructional teams, parents, support personnel and other adults. Emphasizes human capabilities for resolving conflicts at various life stages and situations. Examines a range of discipline models as their implementation relates to the classroom environment.
SPED 500 Contemporary Issues in Special Education 3 s.h.
Participants engage in problem-centered analyses and investigations, and in determnation of responses relative to the contemporary issues confronting special education.
