Learning and Instruction (M.Ed.)

The Learning and Instruction program is designed to promote the preparation of teachers and other education professionals interested in improving their instruction, preparing for positions of educational leadership, or enhancing their abilities to support learning in non-school settings. In particular, the Learning and Instruction program will help individuals achieve the following:

• Strengthen their knowledge of learning and development.
• Deepen their understanding of instructional strategies.
• Strengthen pedagogical skills for use in classrooms on non-classroom settings.
• Broaden understanding of learning of children from diverse backgrounds.
• Build research skills in preparation for future doctoral study.
• Gain understanding of educational practices in other countries.
• Build knowledge and skills in a manner tailored to an individual's interests.

The 30 semester-hour program is designed to be completed over a three semester period. The major consists of the following:

Common Core 12 semester hours to be taken by all students

EDUC 3200 Foundations in Learning and Development
EDUC 3620 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDUC 3170 Analysis of Teaching
EDUC 3830 Action Research
Or
EDUC 3970 Masters Thesis in Education

Specialization Strand 12 hours

Electives 6 hours

Specification of Specialization Strands

The specialization strands will require students to take 4 courses that relate to a core topic. Courses may be taken from other departments and schools in the University if they are consistent with the core thrust of the strand. One strand, Individualized Program, can be created by the student with support from and approval of the advisor for the program. All programs of study must be approved by an advisor for this program and the Director of Graduate Studies.

Strands
Teaching and Learning - designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding and skills for delivering instruction across a broad range of subjects in grades PreK-6.

Digital Literacies - for students interested in the changing nature of literacy in a digital age and how instruction in English language arts can take advantage of emerging communications tools and technologies.

Science and Mathematics - fluency in mathematics and science are key to future individual and collective success. This program will help students develop a deeper understanding of how children learn math or science and how achievement in these subject areas can be improved.

Language, Culture, and International Studies - our global society demands language skills and unprecedented knowledge of other cultures; this specialization focuses on the relationship between cultural diversity and learning, English Language Learners, and international exchange.

Individualized Program - designed for students interested in curriculum and instruction, advanced secondary teaching or non- school settings.