Graduate Program Course Descriptions
2009-2010 Graduate Course Descriptions
EDUC 324G Reading in Content Areas (4 hrs.)
Emphasis in reading skills necessary for specific content areas.
EDUC 401G Introduction to Teaching the Gifted (3 hrs.)
An analysis of the issues related to educating gifted students with a focus on definitions, identification, characteristics, and strengths and weaknesses of ability grouping, acceleration, and enrichment. Also included are methods of better serving the gifted in general education classrooms.
EDUC 414G Diagnostic Teaching of Reading & Practicum (4 hrs.)
A first course in remedial reading, including a study of the causes of reading disability and methods to improve reading achievement. Special emphasis will be placed on helping the teacher recognize individual needs, develop competency in conducting tests, and design lessons suitable for meeting specific reading-skill objectives. A field experience is required.
EDUC 460G Growth and Development of the Middle School Level Student (3 hrs.)
An examination of the emotional, physical and mental characteristics and needs of young adolescents.
EDUC 461G Middle School Curriculum and Methods & Practicum (3 hrs.)
The development of an appropriate middle school curriculum and methodology, including rationale, relationship of student characteristics to educational needs, instructional strategies, and program evaluation.
EDUC 498G Language Acquisition and Development (2 hrs.)
Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate expertise in the knowledge of language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and the five essential components of reading: phoneme awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. They will be able to generalize this information to their work with students who have reading difficulties.
EDUC 501 Educational Research (3 hrs.)
Focus on the methods and techniques of educational research, including some statistical concepts, and the writing of research. Required of all graduate students before being admitted to candidacy for the MAT degree.
EDUC 502 Learning in Educational Settings (3 hrs.)
A study of educational and psychological research in the areas of perception, cognition, intelligence, and the learning process. A required course in the Professional Educator MAT program.
EDUC 506 Language Arts in the Elementary School (3 hrs.)
Current developments in the teaching of writing, speaking, listening, and other communication skills in the elementary school including the examination of NCTE standards.
EDUC 512 Issues in Education (3 hrs.)
Analysis of current research and trends in education. A required course in the Professional Educator MAT program.
EDUC 522 Instructional Technology (3 hrs.)
A study of the underlying characteristics of curriculum and their relationship with modern technology; the development of a curriculum and technology integration plan. A required course in all MAT programs.
EDUC 580 Development and Management of Gifted Programs (4 hrs.)
This course is designed to create an understanding of the necessary components in a gifted program.
EDUC 581 Curriculum and Methods for the Gifted (3 hrs.)
Specific curriculum and methods of teaching that are appropriate for gifted students.
EDUC 582 Internship: Gifted (2 hrs.)
Working with gifted students under the supervision of department staff, including the application of appropriate teaching methods and curriculum. Departmental approval required.
EDUC 610 Reflective Teaching (3 hrs.)
The development and practice of self-assessment and goal-setting skills, including reflection, collaboration, mentoring new professionals, analyzing personal teaching habits and styles, and giving non-judgmental feedback; a required course in all master’s degree programs
EDUC 611 Student Diversity and Educational Practice (3 hrs.)
An examination of classroom student diversity, including diversity of culture, family structure, socio-economic level, and ability; and the impact of diversity on curricular and instructional practices. A required course in the Professional Educator MAT program.
EDUC 705 ESL Methods (3 hrs.)
Explores and explains effective approaches, methods, strategies, and techniques for instructional practice based on current research and practices
EDUC 710: ESL Assessment (3 hrs.)
Provides an in-depth examination of the key issues and challenges in the assessment of English language learners. Course topics include" appropriate identification and placement for programming, assessment alternatives, pre and post instructional assessment, and cultural sensitivity in assessment.
EDUC 715: Linguistics for ESL Learners (3 hrs.)
Participants explore the linguistic and literacy development of second language learners. Additionally, participants will learn the ways in which languages may differ and those characteristics of language which tend to be universal, including commonalities between first and second language acquisition.
EDUC 720: Language, Culture, and Classroom Practice (3 hrs.)
An overview of crucial issues relevant to the cross-cultural dynamics for the ESL setting. Appropriate adaptations necessary for a multicultural curriculum will also be explored.
EDUC 725: Second Language Acquisition (3 hrs.)
An introduction of the processes of child and adult second language acquisition and how they differ from first language acquisition, and the implications of theses theories for the teaching and learning of a second language. Additionally, the application of sociolinguistic, psycholinguistic and computer-mediated communication to the language teaching will be covered.
EDUC 730: Internship ESL K-8 (3 hrs.)
A portfolio-based, capstone course of theory-into-practice applications of the knowledge gained, the skills refined, and the disposition developed via the ESL sequence of courses. Within this portfolio, participants engaged in the critical reflection on their own personal and professional growth as educators of CLD students.
EDUC 731: Internship ESL 5-12 (3 hrs.)
A portfolio-based, capstone course of theory-into-practice applications of the knowledge gained, the skills refined, and the disposition developed via the ESL sequence of courses. Within this portfolio, participants engaged in the critical reflection on their own personal and professional growth as educators of CLD students.
EDUC 860 Algebra for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
Participants will gain insight as to algebraic concepts the adolescent learner encounters in grades 5-8. Utilizing the book, Algebra to Go, students will complete the online discussion boards.
EDUC 861 Grammar for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
This course is designed to guide you to information on the Internet via web pages that will improve your personal and professional grammar skills. A portion of the class is also designed to encourage you to develop effective and innovative strategies for teaching grammar to middle school students.
EDUC 862 World History for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
In this course, participants will be guided in how to understand history and the process of change over time, develop the capacity to relate the past to the present, clarify their philosophy of life, and gain an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their own society. They will also improve their ability to place current events within a historical context, and enhance cartographic literacy, become aware of the complexity of national and international events and think like an historian.
EDUC 863 Geography for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
Geography for Middle School Teachers provides an opportunity for participants to become familiar with the National Geography Standards. Through the use of technology, art, music, children’s literature, and language arts, participants gain an understanding of how geography standards can be integrated across the curriculum.
EDUC 864 Physical Science for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
In this course, participants will define and describe work, power and mechanical energy. Participants will apply the units of energy calculations. They will define potential and kinetic energy and the work-energy theorem along with head, endothermic and exothermic processes. Students will describe simple machines and mechanical advantage. They will understand the concept of efficiency and the law of conservation of energy. Participants will differentiate between energy, enthalpy and work, and understand heat capacity and specific heat.
EDUC 865 American History for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
This United States history class will have participants looking at the geographical regions, climatic conditions, immigration practices, conflicts, as well as other key study points. Participants will obtain a good understanding of the middle school history content.
EDUC 866 Life Science for the Middle School Teacher (1 hr.)
This course provides basic Life Science information for the Middle School teacher. An experienced teacher can use the variety of resources, activities and assignments to further enhance and enrich their classroom. Participants discover hands on activities and some great lesson plans they
can really use.
EDUC 870 Adolescent Literature (3 hrs.)
This literature course is designed to introduce adult readers to young adult literature, literature often written for and read by those who are between 12 years and 18 years old. This course will give general consideration to works traditionally used in the classroom, as well as viewing novels, poems, films, and short stories that are read by young adults on their own or that can be used to motivate them to read on their own.
EDUC 871 Basic Math and Measurement (2 hrs.)
In the course, participants will become familiar with multiple algorithms for basic math operations. Emphasis will fall on problem solving, involving basic operations within a measurement theme.
EDUC 872 Children’s Literature (3 hrs.)
This course is designed to assist teachers in integrating the latest children’s literature across the curriculum, specifically in the area of nonfiction. Graphic organizers, reading and writing strategies, and fine art activities will be used to enhance students’ comprehension of the literature.
EDUC 873 Geometry (2 hrs.)
This course covers the basic skills in geometry: Tools of Geometry; Reasoning and Proof; Parallel and Perpendicular Lines; Congruent Triangles; Relationships in Triangles; Quadrilaterals; Proportions and Similarity; Right Triangles and Trigonometry; Transformations; Circles; Areas of Polygons and Circles; Extending Surface Area; and Extending Volume. Participants will be given assignments to prepare for assessments. The grade for the class will be determined by scores on chapter assessments.
EDUC 874 Teaching Methods for Mathematics (1 hr.)
This course examines the research and current practices of teaching mathematics. Learners will review mathematical concepts and develop authentic activities for use in the classroom.
SPED 361G Introduction to Mild/Moderate Disabilities (4 hrs.)
An examination of the educational, emotional, social, and cognitive needs of individuals with mild or moderate disabilities.
SPED 407G Diagnostic Teaching of Math & Practicum (2 hrs.)
A study of the methods and materials in mathematics when working with students with mild/moderate disabilities at all grade levels.
SPED 431G Applied Behavior Analysis (4 hrs.)
A focus on the skills needed to manage students in special and general education classrooms. Theoretical approaches for managing behaviors and relevant management strategies, specific interventions for increasing/decreasing behaviors, and methods for identifying and documenting behavioral concerns and designing appropriate intervention plans will be addressed.
SPED 455G Transition (2 hrs.)
An emphasis on the career-vocational programming alternatives for special education students appropriate to the varying skills of the handicap.
SPED 531 K-6 Mild/Moderate Methods & Practicum (2 hrs.)
This course focuses on assessment, instructional and management techniques designed to enhance the learning of elementary school students with mild to moderate disabilities who are served in a variety of program models; includes an additional 10-hour field experience.
SPED 532 7-12 Mild/Moderate Methods & Practicum (2 hrs.)
This course focuses on assessment, instructional and management techniques designed to enhance the learning of secondary school students with mild to moderate disabilities who are served in a variety of program models; includes an additional 10-hour field experience.
SPED 540 Advanced Internship Instructional Strategist I: K-6 (1 hr.)
This internship is designed for the teacher who is pursuing a second endorsement after successfully completing the Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 or the Instructional Strategist 2 MD or BD/LD internship. This internship will require the teacher to develop and implement methods for teaching study skill strategies and to reflect on how professional organizations impact his or her teaching. (Pre-requisite: Successful completion of SPED 642 Internship: Instructional Strategist 1 7-12, SPED 678 Internship: K-12 Instructional Strategist 2 MD, or SPED 679 Internship: K-12 Instructional Strategist 2 BD/LD and approval by the Graduate Committee)
SPED 541 Advanced Internship Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 (1 hr.)
This internship is designed for the teacher who is pursuing a second endorsement after successfully completing the Instructional Strategist I: K-6 or the Instructional Strategist 2 MD or BD/LD internship. This internship will require the teacher to develop and implement methods for teaching study skill strategies and to reflect on how professional organizations impact his or her teaching. (Pre-requisite: Successful completion of SPED 641 Internship: Instructional Strategist 1 K-6, SPED 678 Internship: K-12 Instructional Strategist 2 MD, or SPED 679 Internship: K-12 Instructional Strategist 2 BD/LD and approval by the Graduate Committee)
SPED 542 Advanced Internship K-12 Instructional Strategist 2: MD (1 hr.)
This internship is designed for the teacher who is pursuing an Instructional Strategist II: MD endorsement as a second special education endorsement after successfully completing the Instructional Strategist I: K-6 or the Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 internship at Morningside College. This internship will require the teacher to develop and implement methods for teaching students with severe mental disabilities and to reflect on how professional organizations impact his or her teaching. (Pre-requisite: Successful completion of SPED 641 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: K-6 or SPED 642 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 and approval by the Graduate Committee)
SPED 543 Advanced Internship K-12 Instructional Strategist 2: BD/LD (1 hr.)
This internship is designed for the teacher who is pursuing an Instructional Strategist II: BD/LD endorsement as a second special education endorsement after successfully completing the Instructional Strategist I: K-6 or the Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 internship at Morningside College. This internship will require the teacher to develop and implement methods for teaching students with severe learning disabilities and behavioral disorders and to reflect on how professional organizations impact his or her teaching. (Pre-requisite: Successful completion of SPED 641 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: K-6 or SPED 642 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 and approval by the Graduate Committee)
SPED 551 Educational Assessment (4 hrs.)
An in-depth look at both formal and informal assessments as they apply to aiding a teacher in developing instructional strategies for the student with learning difficulties. Assessment will be viewed as an integral part of the teaching strategy and includes assessment and teaching in all of the basic subject areas.
SPED 560 Consulting in the Schools (3 hrs.)
The fundamental principles/practices which are part of the consultation process.
SPED 561 Curriculum and Instructional Design (3 hrs.)
Knowledge of and skills in specific interventions to improve the learning rate of students, using a problem-solving approach performed in a collaborative relationship.
SPED 564 Data Collection for Decision-Making (3 hrs.)
Methods for collecting and using data to develop objectives and plans that meet the needs of students, parents, peers, and communities.
SPED 641 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: K-6 (3 hrs.)
Consists of working with elementary students with mild/moderate disabilities under the supervision of the department staff. Involves the demonstration of skills necessary to develop an individualized program of instruction, including skills in assessment, development of reinforcement, feedback techniques, and evaluation. Departmental approval required.
SPED 642 Internship: Instructional Strategist I: 7-12 (3 hrs.)
Consists of working with secondary students with mild/moderate disabilities under the supervision of the department staff. Involves the demonstration of skills necessary to develop an individualized program of instruction, including skills in assessment, development of reinforcement, feedback techniques, and evaluation. Departmental approval required.
SPED 644 Assistive Technology (2 hrs.)
An introduction to various forms of technology designed to assist students attain their IEP goals.
SPED 645 Language Development and Communication Disorders (2 hrs.)
Skills and techniques to assist K-12 students who have limited communication skills.
SPED 646 Curriculum Development and Assessment (3 hrs.)
The design of developmentally appropriate and age appropriate curriculum for students with severe disabilities.
SPED 648 Academic Methods and Materials & Practicum (2 hrs.)
Strategies to assist students with severe learning disabilities to progress in their educational goals.
SPED 649 Social and Behavioral Strategies & Practicum (2 hrs.)
Strategies to assist students with severe disabilities increase their social skills, including social acceptance, interactions with others, and self-management.
SPED 660 Introduction to Mental Disabilities (4 hrs.)
An examination of the foundations and basic concepts related to mental retardation, including history, definitions, assessment, etiology, and prevention with additional focus on the levels of needs of individuals with mental retardation throughout the lifespan, the family individual rights, legal issues, and supports and community living.
SPED 661 Behavior Disorders: Theory and Methods & Practicum (4 hrs.)
Students will gain a greater understanding of learning disabilities; students will also increase their knowledge of and skill in strategies to use with students with moderate to severe learning disabilities served in K-12 general education or special education programs.
SPED 662 Learning Disabilities: Theory and Methods & Practicum (4 hrs.)
Students will gain a greater understanding of behavior disorders; students will also increase their knowledge of and skill in strategies for use with students with moderate to severe behavior disorders served in K-12 general education and special education programs.
SPED 672 Special Education Law (2 hrs.)
An examination of current and historical perspectives of the laws pertaining to individuals with disabilities, including an understanding of case law and dispute resolution.
SPED 675 Functional Curriculum and Instruction & Practicum (4 hrs.)
Instruction in the development of age-appropriate, longitudinal functional curriculum to enable individuals and their families to become as self-sufficient as possible. The required practicum provides opportunities to practice skills.
SPED 676 Collaborative Partnerships and Transition (3 hrs.)
This course introduces concepts, issues and strategies related to providing collaborative services for individuals with disabilities, including transitional support. It will include knowledge of family systems, parent rights, advocacy, multi-cultural communication, transition planning, self-determination, and interagency collaboration as well as strategies for working with parents individuals involved in the educational program in providing appropriate programming and services to students with disabilities.
SPED 678 Internship: Instructional Strategist II-MD (3 hrs.)
Consists of working with individuals with severe/profound mental disabilities under the supervision of department staff. Requires application of systematic evaluation and instructional strategies. Departmental approval required.
SPED 679 Internship: Instructional Strategist II-BD/LD (3 hrs.)
Consists of working with individuals with severe/profound behavioral and learning disabilities under the supervision of department staff. Requires application of systematic evaluation and instructional strategies. Departmental approval required.
SPED 878 Survey of Exceptionalities (3 hrs.)
This course is designed to be an introduction to concepts and considerations for teaching or working with individuals with special needs. Characteristics, etiologies, specific needs, teaching methods, and adaptations will be covered in the class. In addition, you will be introduced to the present laws, to the court cases which led up to these laws and regulations, and to the current issues and future trends.
Graduate Courses Outside of the Education Department
Limited additional graduate coursework is available through the following departments: Art; Computer Science; Economics; English; Social Science; History/Political Science; Mathematics; Music; Philosophy; Psychology; Religion; Spanish; Speech and Theatre Arts. Consult the course description book or the Director of Graduate Studies for information regarding these courses.