Master of Arts in Teaching

Exploration of philosophical, sociological, and political foundations of American education and inquiry into the role schools play in cultural production, maintenance, and transformation and what this means for diverse learners of all ages. Includes an examination of law and policies that affect children and families.

Surveys research literature in learning and human development with an emphasis on the role of educators as decision makers and change agents who are knowledgeable about diversity and multiculturalism. Emphasizes the role today’s educators play on advancing knowledge about instructional technology, human relations, time management, principles of growth and development, and the processes of memory and cognition. Usually Offered: fall, spring, and summer.

Through action research, students explore ways of organizing and managing classrooms to support diverse learners. Students engage in curriculum design and implementation across the curriculum, including instructional planning and using portfolios. The role that families, the community, and other professionals can play in assessment and curriculum planning are explored.

This course focuses on understanding language acquisition, literacy development, and classroom teaching through the lens of cultural and linguistic diversity. Includes class discussion of strategies for teaching literacy with practical application in local elementary schools.

Critical exploration of picture books and adolescent literature with a focus on using children’s literature to explore issues of social justice and equity.

This survey course examines students with diverse learning needs and effective programs designed to provide equitable education for all students. Exceptionalities of students with regard to cognitive, behavioral, and psychological/social differences are the focus of study.

Materials and methods for teaching mathematics to all learners. Emphasis is on analysis of current research and effective mathematics instruction. Includes hands-on interactive math activities and practical application in local elementary schools.

Strategies, materials, methods, and classroom management for teaching science in elementary schools. Examines pedagogy and best practices for effective science education for diverse learners. Includes practical application in local elementary schools.

The practicum enables application of knowledge and theory through supervised field experience in the classroom. Students participate in seminars that enhance learning in the field by encouraging study, reflection, connection, and application of teaching practice. Preparation of a professional portfolio is required.

Focuses on understanding how to support all learners through the use of various strategies, methods, and modes for effective social studies teaching. Emphasis on the analysis of current research in effective social studies teaching and learning. Includes practical application in local elementary schools.

The class meets weekly for students to discuss their teaching experiences and to assist them in developing ideas and strategies to improve their classroom effectiveness. Preparation of a reflective case study and completion of a professional portfolio and an on-line journal are required. Permission: director of teacher education. Note: Completion of relevant methods courses and practicum, and satisfactory academic and professional performance as defined by the Teacher Education Committee are required. Students enroll in this seminar in the semester they are completing their student teaching requirement.