EDUC 501 - Introduction to Special Education

This course is designed to provide a full overview of the historical analysis of Special Education: classifications/definitions and patterns of behavior, description of assessment and intervention strategies, legislation and litigation, outside forces that influence Special Education, and an introduction to the people in Special Education and their relationship to the system. Students will concentrate on their particular area of education as it relates to Special Education. Students will complete 10 logged hours of field experience.

EDUC 511 - Learning and Cognition or CLEP Introduction to Educational Psychology

An in-depth examination of the research on issues of learning and cognition and how it applies to the classroom. A major research paper is required.

EDUC 512 - TESOL Methods with Field Experience

This course provides an overview of the full range of the methodology for teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), especially appropriate for the K-12 classroom teacher who has non-English speaking students in the classroom. It provides students a thorough understanding of the nature of teaching and learning ESL or EFL. It examines the basics of teaching ESL or EFL history, theories, models, techniques, and applications. It aims to enable students to incorporate the appropriate ESL or EFL strategies in their teaching and adapt their materials and instructional methods to meet English language learners’ needs and accommodate their learning styles. Course topics include techniques and strategies for improving second language learners’ listening, speaking, reading, writing, and communication skills, the role of the teacher, the needs of the learner, language testing and assessment, materials design, use of new technology in language teaching, and the development of lesson plans, including the selection and uses of texts and other materials. The course is designed as a laboratory experience, using multiple constructivist techniques and strategies of instruction. Students taking this course are required to complete a 10-hour field experience. This field experience will include both observation and engagement with English Language learners. Students are also expected to engage in extensive reading, research, class discussion, written reflection, and self-evaluation through dialogue, group projects, and field work.

EDUC 539 - Pre-Adolescent and Adolescent Development or CLEP Human Growth and Development

This course provides an introduction to early adolescent and adolescent development and investigates the implication of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development in educational settings. Major developmental and psychological theories and research relevant to teaching and learning are explored. Content areas include adolescent growth and development, conflicts and issues associated with different developmental levels, approaches to instruction, and cultural and socioeconomic diversity. The emphasis will be on the practical relevance of this material for students in grades 4-8.

EDUC 603 - Reading and Writing Across the Content Area

This course will examine all areas of literacy development from foundational literacy to content area education. A main emphasis will be to examine expository reading development in content areas of mathematics, science, social studies, music, and English as well as the use of supplemental texts. Emphasis will be given to the reading and writing process and effective teaching practices that aid students’ comprehension, vocabulary, critical thinking, studying, and writing. A variety of current research literature will be reviewed.

EDUC 682 - Evaluation and Assessment of Students in Inclusive Settings

This course examines the assessment and evaluation processes used for determining progress for students with and without Individual Educational Programs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act mandates that all students have access to the general education classroom and curriculum. The course will provide teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to assess and evaluate all students. The course will examine historical, philosophical and legal considerations and models of the assessment process and various types of assessments will be examined.

EDUC 684 - Inclusive Education with Field Experience

This course examines the concept of Inclusion and what it means to both the special educator and the general educator. Students will learn to use effective inclusion strategies in the general education classroom and examine the various ways special and regular educators can work effectively together. Students will have 10 hours of field experience in inclusive education settings.

EDUC 610 - Student Teaching

Observation and teaching in an approved classroom with guidance and evaluation. At least 12 weeks of fulltime student participation is required. Students must apply for student teaching at least two semesters in advance.

EDUC 620 - Practicum

A seminar to synthesize the academic disciplines and relate them to the development and learning of the pupil in school and focus on the needs of the student teacher. This course offers opportunities to gain skill, insight and perspective in the relationship of theory to practice in the teaching-learning process. To be scheduled concurrently with student teaching.