Course Descriptions

In-person and Online Professional Development Courses for Teachers and Educators

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NOTE: Courses listed here are not always offered every semester. For information on course offerings and schedules, please consult the current course schedule on our home page.

Academic Literacy

EDU 531A Academic Literacy for the STEM and Career Technology Educator This course will focus on developing Academic literacy in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education (STEM) and Career Technology Education (CTE) area of secondary education. Academic literacy stresses the development of reading and writing proficiency for acquiring knowledge across all content areas. Participants will learn strategies to improve the academic skills and practices that strengthen reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical thinking abilities in the classroom.

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Administration

EDU 597A  Supervision and Professional Development in a K-12 Setting  This course will focus on instruction paradigms and clinical supervision techniques.  Strategies for supervision methods will be modeled to include professional communication skills in convening parent meetings as well as evaluating teacher performance, creating improvement plans and developing professional learning communities. Participants will develop and present a plan to apply methodology of real life scenarios.

EDU 680A Leadership for the 21st Century  This course explores the critical issues in school leadership for the 21st century. This class focuses on leadership skills; technology for teachers, students and administrators; alternative methods of student assessment; demographics of future population; and parent/community expectations.

EDU 790A  Organization and Leadership of Schools through Administration  This course will define the many aspects of an administrator’s influence and impact on a school environment. Participants will examine how factors of teacher assessment and development, academic advancement, as well as how school and community outreach play a part in a school’s overall success. Students will develop strategic planning skills to evaluate the organization of a school community’s relationships and responsibilities and how they correlate with pupil achievement. Participants will explore the role of staff professional development.

EDU 856A Legal Issues in Education  This course highlights major legal issues affecting teachers and administrators. Emphasis is placed upon legal issues such as negligence, desegregation, rights and responsibilities of teachers, academic freedom, students’ rights, and school attendance. This class is highly interactive with discussions, simulations, and case studies.

EDU 945 Curriculum Development  This course introduces students to the principles of curriculum theory and development. Attention is given to current practices and curriculum reform movements.

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Assessment

EDU 700D Introduction to Performance-Based Instruction/ Assessment This course focuses on current research and practice in performance-based instruction and assessment. Participants will examine practices that support the development of students’ abilities to apply knowledge, skill and understanding in a real-world content.

EDU 734B Assessment for Literacy Instruction This course is designed to familiarize teachers with current state and local classroom literacy assessment data in order to become skilled in using classroom and assessment data to enhance literacy instruction. Students will learn how to select appropriate literacy assessment instruments, observe and record data, analyze test scores and performance, interpret data and outline accommodations and plans for remediation. Students will practice making educational decisions based upon data provided by local and/or state assessments and communicate assessment results.

EDU 805A Assessment of and for Learning Participants will gain an understanding of K-12 classroom assessments in light of linking assessment to curriculum, instruction, and student progress. Participants will develop the ability to apply valid and reliable classroom-based assessments of student learning including assessments designed and adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners.

EDU 824 Standardized Tests: Selection and Interpretation This course surveys the various achievement, aptitude, and personality instruments utilized in the school setting. Issues of selection and interpretation are addressed. Educators will gain hands-on experience with the instruments to achieve greater confidence in translating assessment results into practical direction for class instruction and lesson formulation.

EDU 882 Educational Assessment of Learning Disabled Students This course stresses norm- and criterion-referenced diagnostic techniques with attention given to informal probing and diagnostic teaching strategies. A review of basic measurement concepts is provided.

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Character Education

EDU 979A Character Education The course explores how to lead a school-wide transformation that reduces discipline problems, enhances academic achievement, builds a cohesive and committed professional staff, and assists youth in becoming respectful, responsible citizens.

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Classroom Management

EDU 515A Classroom and Risk Management for the STEM and Career Technology Educator
This course focuses on the study of teaching methods and classroom management techniques that facilitate the learning of students in Career and Technical Education settings, including risk management.

EDU 921 Understanding Bullying: Managing Behavior & Teaching Tolerance Bullying has become a growing problem in today’s schools.  Teachers, counselors and administrators are faced with the rise in incidents and are tasked with establishing programs to combat the issue.  This course will examine the act of bullying from multiple perspectives: the victim, the offender, the parents of both parties, and what role a school can play.  Students will learn to identify bullying in various settings, including school, work and cyber bullying.  Participants will develop strategies to reduce bullying and teach tolerance wherever possible.

EDU 930A Classroom Management and Discipline This course incorporates research findings into the development of effective classroom management methods. Specific procedures are explored to maximize the efficiency of the teacher to instruct and motivate students.

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Counseling

COUN 598 Career Development Counseling  This course focuses on the stages of career development and how these stages connect with adolescent and adult development. The theories of vocational choice as well as resources for occupational and educational planning and decision- making are addressed. Practical hands-on experience with vocational tests and counseling techniques are included in the workshop.

COUN 615 Mental Hygiene This course features discussions, dialogue, student-led presentations, and experiential activities through which participants explore aspects of mental hygiene, including how it is maintained, lost, or restored. This course focuses on factors affecting mental hygiene such as belief systems, interpersonal relationships, aging, death, stress, depression, addictions, ethnicity, race, and gender.

EDU 510C Families of the 21st Century  This course familiarizes education professionals with the dynamics of dysfunctional families. The Systems theory, which provides the background for understanding how children interact in both family and education environment(s), is presented. Intervention strategies, which assist both teacher and student that will maximize learning, are discussed.

EDU 587 Students in Crisis: Issues of Abuse and Violence This course explores the changing nature of schools and the proactive response that educators must make to counteract the negative impact of alcohol and drug usage, child abuse, and violence. The course offers counselors, administrators, and teachers practical methods to teach children and adolescents appropriate and effective ways to cope with various stressors. Topics include the student assistance program to address drug and alcohol issues, problem-solving techniques, decision-making, coping skills, conflict resolution without violence, cults, and alternatives to violence.

EDU 800 Juvenile Delinquency This course explores the nature, extent, and causes of juvenile delinquency. Causal factors that aid in treatment and prevention of juvenile delinquency are identified and analyzed. The course also identifies and examines current successful delinquency prevention programs.

EDU 980 Time and Stress Management  This course is designed to assist participants in developing strategies to control stress in their lives.

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Curriculum

EDU 875B Teaching the Gifted Learner This course focuses on gifted learners and how they differ in cognitive, developmental, and behavioral ways from more typical learners. It will emphasize general theories of intelligence and social and emotional development. Instructional and managerial techniques to address the individual learning needs of those with gifts and talents will be outlined. Students will explore appropriate content for and implementation of a gifted class curriculum.

EDU 945 Curriculum Development  This course introduces students to the principles of curriculum theory and development. Attention is given to current practices and curriculum reform movements.

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Early Childhood Education

EDU 568A Methods and Materials for Early Childhood This course examines the content areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies using appropriate methods and materials. It is designed to assist participants in preparing materials for their own classrooms.

EDU 568R Philosophy and Practice of Reggio Emilia This course will provide an overview of the philosophy, principles, practical applications, and adaptations of the Reggio Emilia approach in early childhood. The Reggio Emilia approach to teaching young children emphasizes the inherent development of children including the close relationships that they share with their surroundings at the center of its philosophy. Course participants will explore this philosophy through literature, active participation and discussion.

EDU 759A Teaching Reading in Early Childhood   This course stresses developmentally appropriate practices specific to any early childhood education setting.

EDU 851A Using Play and Creative Activities in Early Childhood This course focuses on the importance of play and creative activities for the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development in early childhood. In addition to the key elements of an early childhood curriculum, outdoor education and health and safety will be included.

EDU 853 Curriculum Planning in Early Childhood   This course focuses on creating daily planned activities to enrich experiences in the classroom and contribute to the development of young children.

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Economics

EDU 911E Fundamental Economics  This course will introduce students to economic fundamentals and theories. Students will use economic and mathematical models to analyze the driving forces behind the way in which an economy works. Emphasis will be placed on consumer and producer choice, market structure, resource allocation, the role of the private firm and the role of the government.

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Educational Psychology

EDU 921 Understanding Bullying: Managing Behavior & Teaching Tolerance  Bullying has become a growing problem in today’s schools.  Teachers, counselors and administrators are faced with the rise in incidents and are tasked with establishing programs to combat the issue.  This course will examine the act of bullying from multiple perspectives: the victim, the offender, the parents of both parties, and what role a school can play.  Students will learn to identify bullying in various settings, including school, work and cyber bullying.  Participants will develop strategies to reduce bullying and teach tolerance wherever possible.

EDU 931 Principles of Teaching and Human Learning This course examines theories of learning and how these theories may be applied to the classroom setting. Philosophical foundations and historical context for theories of learning will be explored. This course will focus on topics of interest for teachers, educational psychologists, and other professionals working with students.

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English as a Second Language

EDU 676 Foundations of ESOL This course introduces students to the current educational practices, history, educational philosophy, school organization, and social trends of ESOL. Participants are given an in-depth look into teacher roles and curricular models.

EDU 696 General Linguistics This course focuses on the history of general linguistics and the relationship to other linguistics related fields. It deals specifically with general principles of phonology, morphology, semantics, and syntax.

EDU 724 ESOL Tests & Measurements  This course explores issues, concepts, and methods concerning ESOL testing and measurements.

EDU 799 Methods of Teaching Writing to LEP Students This course explores efficient methods, strategies, and theories for teaching writing to LEP students, including routine technical writing activities and creative writing. A variety of examples will be presented and modeled from different levels of English proficiency. Students are expected to develop lesson plans using learned methods and strategies of writing.

EDU 904 Structure of American English  This course focuses on the history of American English, principally with the phonemic, morphemic, and syntactic structure of modern American English in preparation for teaching ESOL.

EDU 972 Language Learning This course provides a systematic overview of the historical evolution of the field of language learning to include present day innovations. The purpose of this course is to facilitate an awareness of how present day second language practice came into existence. The class also projects the future direction of second language education based on the latest research.

EDU 972A Language Learning Acquisition  This course offers an exploration of language development with specific attention given to the linguistic foundation for reading.

EDU 978W ESL/ESOL Methods and Strategies  This course explores issues of language and culture and expands on home and school variables that promote academic success of LEP students. Second language acquisition theories are discussed as an introduction to ESL/ESOL teaching strategies and activities. A variety of techniques are presented according to the different learning styles and levels of English proficiency.

EDU 989A Teaching Reading to Limited English Proficiency Students This course examines the unique challenges inherent in teaching reading to ESL/ESOL students. Theory and research regarding language acquisition and reading for these students will be explored. In addition, current techniques that are proving most successful in meeting the special instruction needs of these students will be illustrated.

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Fine Arts

EDU 724A Creative Drama and Music in Education  This course teaches techniques and presents materials that enable the teacher to lead K-6 students in creative drama and music activities that enhance the curriculum, encourage individual artistic expression, develop aesthetic judgment, and increase group cooperation. Participants in this hands-on class actively participate in learning multi-cultural appreciation and awareness. Teachers learn to adjust materials for both special and gifted populations.

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Foreign Languages

EDU 674A Introduction to Hispanic Culture   This course is designed for those participants who are familiar with the basics of Spanish grammar and are able to conduct simple conversations in Spanish. The course will take participants through the simple preterit and imperfect tenses while building on previously acquired grammatical structures and vocabulary. The course will present expressions for use in an educational setting. The course will also provide instruction for filling out applications, permission slips, making appointments, answering the telephone, reporting student progress and more. Cultural aspects of various Latin American countries will be presented. Class participation is essential to this course.

EDU 997W Methods of Teaching World Languages This course focuses on the methods and strategies of teaching modern world languages from a developmental approach. This includes second language development, as well as teaching objectives, selection-language, and organization of methods, materials, and an evaluation of the language program.  Participants will create and demonstrate curricula with performance-based assessments as relevant to their respective teaching level.

SPA 500 Spanish for Educators Part I  This course explores the establishment of a fundamental base of communication between English-speaking teachers and/or counselors and Spanish-speaking students and their parents. Materials used during the course sessions are simulated for real life situations.

SPA 501 Spanish for Educators Part II This course is a continuation of SPA 500. It will build on the basic communication and vocabulary learned in Part I and expand the finer points of Spanish pronouns and prepositions. The course will present expressions for use in the educational setting. The course will also provide written examples as well as guidelines for communicating with parents.

SPA 503 Spanish for Educators Part III  This course, a continuation of SPA 501, offers practical instruction in Spanish with a focus on application of conversational Spanish for teachers, counselors, administrators, and other employees at schools were Spanish is the first language of many students. Fundamentals of Spanish speech and word order will familiarize readers with often-used words and phrases that relate directly to school situations. This course offers help for counseling in Spanish on issues related to health care, career guidance, college assistance, educational administration, special-needs, and extracurricular activities.

SPA 504 Spanish for Educators Part IV This course offers an advanced application of the vocabulary and grammatical structures of the Spanish language presented in SPA 503.  Students will learn complex verbs and verb tenses necessary for communication in an academic setting.  A variety of techniques will be presented for methods of student and parent communication in Spanish at a professional level including words and phrases relating to school rules, school personnel, giving instructions, and parent-teacher conferences. Readings and conversational role play activities will provide important insight into the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

SPA 505A Spanish for Educators Part V This course offers an advanced application of the content presented in SPA 504 and is conducted entirely in Spanish. The course is designed to help students develop fluency with increased linguistic accuracy to improve communication in an academic setting with students and parents. Participants will develop greater proficiency in the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) while deepening insight into Spanish-speaking culture.

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Foundations

EDU 550F Foundations and Philosophy of Education  Participants will gain an understanding of the historical, sociological and philosophical foundations underlying the development and structure of public education in the United States.  Laws and regulations on a federal and state level will be examined from the standpoint of contemporary cultural and organizational levels to view the legal status of both teachers and students in their school environment.  With the framework of the aforementioned foundations, the instructional design will be addressed based on assessment data.  Key factors of assessment data include the ability to evaluate assessment data to determine ways to improve instruction and student performance in a standards-based environment.

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Geography

EDU 686B Physical Geography, K-8 This course emphasizes practical classroom applications of the National Geography Standards and the Five Fundamental Themes in Geography. Basic geography concepts and terms are presented in conjunction with resources and methods to teach geography across the curriculum.

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Gifted and Talented Education

EDU 875B Teaching the Gifted Learner This course focuses on gifted learners and how they differ in cognitive, developmental, and behavioral ways from more typical learners. It will emphasize general theories of intelligence and social and emotional development. Instructional and managerial techniques to address the individual learning needs of those with gifts and talents will be outlined. Students will explore appropriate content for and implementation of a gifted class curriculum.

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Health & Physical Education

EDU 503S Health and Physical Safety for Educators This course covers major concepts in health education including the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and physical activity, diseases and their causes, substance abuse, OSHA requirements, and First Aid basics. Methods of creating opportunities for student development and health-friendly skills are examined.

EDU 956 Health and Nutrition for Children  This course is designed to familiarize teachers with health and nutrition content areas. Strategies for teaching health education and available health education resources are also explored. This course is appropriate for K-12 educators.

EDU 958 Enhancing the Physical Education Program, K-8 This course is designed for physical educators (full or part time), administrators, and classroom teachers whose goals are to elevate the quality of their physical education program despite present day budget restraints. Topics to be discussed include current teaching trends, integrating whole language techniques, and how to get the most for your physical education dollars. Other topics to be covered include fitness testing, jump aerobics, and cooperate play and circuit training.

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History

EDU 500H U.S. History, 1945 – Present  This course analyzes the fundamental global events that have shaped American history since World War II. Political, social, and economic factors that affected domestic developments and foreign affairs are emphasized.

EDU 520H World History II  This course is a survey of western civilization from 1500 to the present with a focus on the historical impacts of religion, government, socioeconomic structures, scientific development and the arts on society.  Civilizations will be analyzed as they were initially formed and tracked through stages of global changes following exposure to the modern world.

EDU 662 History of the District of Columbia  This course explores the rich and diverse history of Washington, D.C. from its beginning to the present day. Emphasis is placed on educational, political, and cultural institutions. The class features tours of select historic sites, speakers, and hands-on project development. This course is designed for teachers and other educators who are interested in learning more about the Nation’s Capital.

EDU 662C Civil War: Washington, DC History This learning adventure will immerse students in the history of the Civil War in Washington, D.C. By preparing and performing historical speeches, interpreting letters, and “reading” artifacts, images and places, participants will develop teaching techniques that strengthen reading comprehension and critical thinking skills while learning the content knowledge that will make the city of Washington a classroom. Participants will come away with an array of resources, such as virtual tours and oratory skills, to get students on their feet performing speeches by Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, among others. The course emphasizes practical, content-driven experiential learning adventures including motivation to use classroom drama to help historic characters come alive.

EDU 688 Methods of Teaching Social Studies, K-12 This course is an interactive exploration of current practices, activities, and skills that enhance the teaching of social studies. Participants take part in hands-on, engaging activities that focus on every aspect of a relevant social studies program including geography, history, social science, politics, multiculturalism, technology, and economics.

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Human Growth & Development

EDU 589H Human Growth and Development: Secondary This course examines the physical, cognitive, social emotional, and psychological aspects of adolescence from a developmental point of view. Theory and research of child development are explored and applied in practice sessions as possible solutions to unique challenges. Participants will review and analyze the ways in which adolescents interact within familial, school, and community settings.

EDU 663A Child Growth and Development: Elementary This course provides an overview of the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive aspects of human development from infancy to adolescence. Students examine developmental theory as a framework for the elementary curriculum; however, this course is appropriate for teachers of all grade levels.

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Human Learning

EDU 931 Principles of Teaching and Human Learning This course examines theories of learning and how these theories may be applied to the classroom setting. Philosophical foundations and historical context for theories of learning will be explored. This course will focus on topics of interest for teachers, educational psychologists, and other professionals working with students.

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Journalism

EDU 500J Introduction to Journalism  This course focuses on the history, techniques, ethics and functions of journalism. Students will participate in analytical discussion of key individuals and events in journalism history. First Amendment protections will be addressed. A variety of techniques are presented for basic news-gathering, interviewing, and writing necessary for printing, broadcasting and public relations.

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Law & Education

EDU 856A Legal Issues in Education  This course highlights major legal issues affecting teachers and administrators. Emphasis is placed upon legal issues such as negligence, desegregation, rights and responsibilities of teachers, academic freedom, students’ rights, and school attendance. This class is highly interactive with discussions, simulations, and case studies.

EDU 887 Legal Issues in Special Education This course identifies issues of concern in special education. Participants will research and analyze pertinent legal decisions and the implications of educational policy. This class will be highly interactive with discussion, simulations, and case studies.

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Leadership

EDU 502B Enhancing Classroom Instruction in Urban Schools  This course is designed to give aspiring and current school leaders practical strategies that can be used to implement and/or maintain high-quality instruction within urban school settings (especially those schools that are struggling and have a history of failure).  The tenets of this course will focus on key areas of instructional leadership that will allow urban school leaders to move past barriers that adversely affect the teaching and learning process.  They will also be able to implement effective changes that will help improve a school’s overall academic performance.

EDU 547C Interpersonal Communication Skills  This course provides human relations training that will enable participants to gain more cooperation and understanding in a wide variety of situations.

EDU 597A Supervision and Professional Development in a K-12 Setting This course will focus on instruction paradigms and clinical supervision techniques. Strategies for supervision methods will be molded to include processional communication skills in convening parent meetings as well as evaluating teacher performance, creating improvement plans and developing professional learning communities. Participants will develop and present a plan to apply methodology of real life scenarios.

EDU 680A Leadership for the 21st Century  This course explores the critical issues in school leadership for the 21st century. This class focuses on leadership skills; technology for teachers, students and administrators; alternative methods of student assessment; demographics of future population; and parent/community expectations.

EDU 790A  Organization and Leadership of Schools through Administration  This course will define the many aspects of an administrator’s influence and impact on a school environment. Participants will examine how factors of teacher assessment and development, academic advancement, as well as how school and community outreach play a part in a school’s overall success. Students will develop strategic planning skills to evaluate the organization of a school community’s relationships and responsibilities and how they correlate with pupil achievement. Participants will explore the role of staff professional development.

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Mathematics

EDU 911A Mathematics with Manipulatives  This course focuses on the use of manipulatives in grades K – 6. Students move from the concrete level with manipulatives to the connecting and abstract levels. Topics include place, value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, percent, measurements, geometry, logic, probability, and problem solving. Every class includes estimation and graphing. Mathematics as communication will also be discussed. Participants have the opportunity to discuss and modify the activities for their particular grade level.

MAED 523 Calculus Concepts for the Classroom  This course reviews the mathematical concepts and techniques required for success in understanding calculus. The use of available technology creates a hands-on laboratory approach for solving real-life calculus applications and problems. This class is appropriate for those interested in either teaching or learning calculus at any grade level.

MAED 525 Algebra for Teachers, K-6  This course focuses on the fundamental aspects of algebra. A variety of problems and activities bridge the concepts of arithmetic to the properties of algebra. In the course, participants use available technology in a hands-on laboratory for exploring realistic and interesting situations in algebra. Current developments in the NCTM Standards are highlighted, offering new materials and technology to enhance elementary algebra instruction.

MAED 537 Problem Solving in Math This course utilizes a hands-on approach to solve a wide variety of interdisciplinary math problems. Participants actively engage in constructing and solving problems with real world data. All course work is based on the NCTM Standards and is appropriate for those interested in either teaching or learning mathematics at any grade level.

MAED 538M History of Mathematics In this course a wide variety of experiences enable participants to explore the exciting and rich history of mathematics. A range of diverse cultural influences on the origin and development of mathematics will be highlighted. The connections among history, modern geometry, art, nature, science and technology will be examined. This course is appropriate for those interested in teaching or learning mathematics in grades K-12.

MAED 556 Discrete Math for Teachers, K – 6  This course focuses on developing a rich understanding of the discrete mathematics topics common to the elementary curriculum. Course topics include various concepts of arithmetic such as counting techniques, place, value, number operations, and patterns. Current development in the NCTM Standards is highlighted offering new materials and technology to enhance elementary discrete mathematics instruction.

MAED 668B Modern Geometry This course focuses on the properties of Euclid’s geometry, which led to the development of modern geometrical systems. To bridge the gap between modern and classical mathematics, the activities of the discovery of non-Euclidian geometry and its major impact on twentieth century science and mathematics are covered. The connections among modern geometry, art, nature, science, and new technologies are highlighted.

MAED 684 Linear Algebra This course provides a modern introduction to linear programming. Topics are drawn from a wide variety of fields including business, economics, engineering, physics, computer science, geometry, sociology, and genetics. Also included is a brief introduction to game theory. This class is designed for teachers of grades 6-12 who are familiar with basic algebra.

MAED 696 Probability and Statistics  This course focuses on the fundamental concepts of probability and statistics. Exciting methods of exploratory data analysis are examined through hands-on applications and projects. Computing technology that allows for graphical representation of statistical data and probability simulation is highlighted. Activities relevant to the NCTM Standards for Inclusion are featured in the curriculum. No previous knowledge of statistical analysis is required for participating in this class.

MAED 700 Trigonometry for Secondary Teachers This course focuses on developing a rich understanding of the Trigonometry topics common to the high school mathematics curriculum. Course topics include various concepts of Trigonometry such as right triangle trigonometry, the Unit Circle, all six Trigonometric functions – their properties and graphical representations, Inverse Trigonometric functions, solving Trigonometric equations, Proving Trigonometric identities, the Law of Sines, and the Law of Cosines. The use of a variety of activities and historical context are provided to enhance secondary mathematics instruction of Trigonometry.

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Methods of Teaching

EDU 512A Methods of Instruction and Assessment for the STEM and Career Technology Educator
This course focuses on planning, delivering, and assessing instruction in professional and technical education classrooms. It prepares educators to develop instructional plans, write performance objectives, identify appropriate instructional strategies, develop instructional materials, and utilize standards-based assessment strategies in career and technology secondary education areas.

EDU 684E Curriculum and Instruction Methods: Elementary This course introduces methods of teaching in elementary schools to promote student learning.  Focus will be placed on curriculum planning, teaching strategies, assessment, and differentiation to increase student performance.  Participants will explore how the classroom environment and school setting impacts active learning.  Diverse student populations and professional collaboration will also be discussed.

EDU 694 Methods of Secondary Teaching  This course emphasizes building knowledge of theory and research, curriculum planning, and delivery of instruction for the secondary teacher. Teachers who are recently out of college, changing careers, or assigned to a different group or subject will benefit from this training.

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Multicultural Education

EDU 674A Introduction to Hispanic Culture  This course is designed for those participants who are familiar with the basics of Spanish grammar and are able to conduct simple conversations in Spanish. The course will take participants through the simple preterit and imperfect tenses while building on previously acquired grammatical structures and vocabulary. The course will present expressions for use in an educational setting. The course will also provide instruction for filling out applications, permission slips, making appointments, answering the telephone, reporting student progress and more. Cultural aspects of various Latin American countries will be presented. Class participation is essential to this course.

EDU 926 Multicultural Education This course explores creative ways of making the classroom more inclusive and accepting of diversity. Cultural attitudes and values that affect how teachers and students relate to one another are examined. Concrete activities for developing appreciation of self and sensitivity to others are introduced.

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Praxis I Test Preparation

EDU 700A Praxis I Reading/Writing

Note: No credits are awarded for this course. Praxis preparation courses will include on-line computer-based testing programs.

Reading: This course reviews the basic skills of reading comprehension. The course will provide participants with an understanding of critical reading skills and the mechanics of reading through diverse written materials. Classroom learning experiences include the practice of skimming, previewing, locating answers, and summarizing and evaluating written material.

Writing: This course introduces participants to the basic skills of writing. Participants will benefit from the ability to express their thoughts on paper. This course will provide participants with classroom writing support, including immediate feedback on their common misuses of grammar and sentence structure. They will produce a writing sample including the topic sentence, body of the paper, and the conclusion.

EDU 700C Praxis I Mathematics

Note: No credits are awarded for this course. Praxis preparation courses will include on-line computer-based testing programs.

Mathematics: This course provides participants with a comprehensive review of the fundamental concepts of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. It is specifically designed to reduce test anxiety and to help participants to overcome their fear of mathematics. This course will provide participants with classroom support, including feedback about their common mathematical errors.

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Reading/Language Arts

EDU 500E American Literature, 1860 – Present   This course examines the past 150 years of American literature. Focus is given to the vast social, political, and philosophical changes in the United States that influenced literature. Course study will include major literary movements, works, and authors. *Not an English Content Course*

EDU 526A Children’s Literature/Materials for Literacy This course is designed to assist educators in exploring Children’s Literature. Participants will use specific evidenced-based criteria and resources to evaluate and select books for teaching reading and writing to all children. In addition, participants will use different resources to integrate reading and writing engagement in students. There will be a close examination on how to best provide cultural awareness in literacy instruction in order to promote all students’ cultural skills through literacy.

EDU 528A Literature for Adolescents and Young Adults This course surveys books written for middle school and high school age students. The course is also appropriate for authors writing for adolescents and young adults.

EDU 528B Shakespeare for Adolescents and Young Adults This course surveys a selection of Shakespearian Dramas. The course will specifically address the literary, historical, and cultural aspects of the “History Plays.” The examination of the content will be directed at promoting interdisciplinary teaching techniques for middle and high school age students. The student perspective will explore affective teacher leadership and classroom presentation techniques for teaching Shakespeare.

EDU 530B Methods of Teaching Literacy in the Content: Secondary, Part I This course focuses on the needs of secondary school teachers as they relate to content area reading and writing. Attention is given to the assessment of student reading, cognitive strategies in reading, incorporating reading skills through student-centered instruction, and intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for reading.

EDU 530C Methods of Teaching Literacy in the Content Area: Elementary  This course is designed to assist educators in choosing and using material for teaching reading and writing. Participants will use specific evidenced-based criteria and resources to evaluate and select books for teaching reading and writing to all children. In addition, participants will use and identify resources to enhance reading and writing engagement in the content area. There will be a close examination on how to best provide cultural awareness in literacy instruction in order to promote all students’ cultural skills through literacy.

EDU 531A Academic Literacy for the STEM and Career Technology Educator This course will focuses on developing Academic literacy in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math education (STEM) and Career Technology Education (CTE) area of a secondary education. Academic literacy stresses the development of reading and writing proficiency for acquiring knowledge across all content areas. Participants will learn strategies to improve the academic skills and practices that strengthen reading, writing, listening, speaking and critical thinking abilities in the classroom.

EDU 533C Understanding the Common Core State Standards in Reading, K-12  This course is designed to explore the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts, K-12 and the key instructional shifts for meeting the demands of those standards. A particular emphasis on unpacking and incorporating the standards into the Reading/English Language Arts classroom is provided.

EDU 666 Process and Acquisition of Literacy This course will focus on five areas related to literacy process and acquisition. Participants will learn the component process involved in reading and writing; the use of the English language; the techniques used by native English speakers and English learners on the how they read and write; and the developmental phases in learning to read and write for native English speakers and English learners. Emphasis will be placed on the fundamental skills of reading and writing.

EDU 682 Methods of Teaching Literacy in the Content: Secondary, Part II This course expands on
the content of 530B. Topics include the application of theories and strategies in order to teach students to
learn from text, reading skills including connections to study skills, and instruction that integrates content with
reading goals.

EDU 704B Instruction of Literacy This course shows students how to design and deliver an effective literacy instruction for all learners. Teachers will learn to screen their classes for critical early reading deficiencies by focusing on the core components of reading and writing. The course will also help participants develop speaking and listening opportunities for all students. In addition, participants will understand how to collaborate with colleagues to provide support for those students who struggle in reading and writing.

EDU 734B Assessment for Literacy Instruction This course is designed to familiarize teachers with current state and local classroom literacy assessment data in order to become skilled in using classroom and assessment data to enhance literacy instruction. Students will learn how to select appropriate literacy assessment instruments, observe and record data, analyze test scores and performance, interpret data and outline accommodations and plans for remediation. Students will practice making educational decisions based upon data provided by local and/or state assessments and communicate assessment results.

EDU 759A Teaching Reading in Early Childhood This course stresses developmentally appropriate practices specific to any early childhood education setting.

EDU 896A Corrective Strategies for Remediating Reading This course explores informal assessment techniques to identify reading disabilities. A variety of strategies are addressed for remediating reading difficulties at the elementary and secondary level(s). This class is designed for regular classroom teachers dealing with reading problems of non special education students.

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Science

BIO 520 Biology for Teachers, K-6  This course emphasizes the process of scientific inquiry and discovery in biology for teachers of grades K-6 through a variety of practical hands-on experiments. Current developments in the Science Standards will be highlighted offering new materials and technology to enhance elementary biology instruction. Course topics include classification, cells, life cycles, botany, human anatomy and physiology.

BIO 521 Biology for Secondary Teachers, 7-12  This course presents new approaches for teaching biology to students in grades 7-12. The process of scientific inquiry and discovery are emphasized through a variety of practical, hands-on experiments. Current developments in the Science Standards are also highlighted offering new materials and technology to enhance secondary biology instruction. The course topics include classification, cells, life cycle, botany, human anatomy and physiology.

CHE 521 Chemistry for Teachers, K-12  This course examines exciting materials and new approaches for teaching chemistry to students in grades K-12. The process of scientific inquiry and discovery is emphasized through a variety of practical hands-on experiments. Current developments in the Science Standards are highlighted, offering new materials and technology to enhance elementary and secondary chemistry instruction. Course topics include the nature and composition of matter, chemical compounds, and common chemical changes in the environment.

CHE 522 Chemistry for Teachers, 7-12  This course examines exciting materials and new approaches for teaching chemistry to students in grades 7-12. The process of scientific inquiry and discovery is emphasized through a variety of practical hands-on experiments. Course topics include the nature and composition of matter, chemical compounds, and common chemical changes in the environment.

ENV 724 Earth Science for Teachers, K-6 This course examines the three major interacting components of the earth’s ecosystem: the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, and the geosphere. New event-based science modules are examined. Units on earthquakes, hurricanes, and oceanography are also presented. A variety of hands-on activities for successfully integrating earth science, mathematics, and new technologies into the K-6 curriculum are covered. Participants will learn to identify and integrate education technology resources in Earth science.

ENV 725A Environmental Science, K-6 This course will examine materials and new approaches for teaching environmental science to students in grades K-6. The process of scientific inquiry and discovery will be emphasized through a variety of practical hands-on experiments. Current developments in the Science Standards will be highlighted offering new materials and technology to enhance elementary instruction. The course topics include investigations of environmental problems and issues; students will discuss global warming and how the living environment is comprised of interrelated dynamic systems.

PHSC 501 Physical Science for Elementary and Middle School Teachers  Physical science is the study of matter and energy and the relationships between them. As such, this course will cover the basic principles of physical science based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)- forces and interactions, waves, property and structure of matter, and energy.  The approach will be conceptual, experimental, and include basic mathematical application (demonstrations, experiments, and projects).

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Special Education

EDU 517C Introduction to Inclusive Education  This course provides an overview of inclusive education research and best practices in inclusive classrooms. The course is geared toward teachers, administrators, and parents interested in learning more about inclusive education. In this course, participants examine research on inclusive education and outcomes for students with and without disabilities, legal aspects of inclusive education, schoolwide inclusive practices, and strategies for increasing access to general education curriculum and contexts for students with disabilities.

EDU 561W Methods and Strategies for Inclusion This course explores methodologies and applications concerning issues, concepts, and teaching strategies for including students with disabilities in the regular education program.

EDU 643I Response to Intervention Strategies  This course will concentrate on response-to-intervention strategies for teachers to work successfully with children who are demonstrating learning difficulties in the general education setting. Focus will be on the three tiers of response-to-intervention and the teacher process of instituting research-based strategies and presenting the data to support progress or lack thereof. Teachers will be exposed to the instructional hierarchy where they learn to link stages of learning to effective instructional techniques.

EDU 644B Developing Useful Individual Education Plans This course will concentrate on developing legally correct and educationally sound Individualized Education Plans for children with special needs. The focus will be learning to write observable, measurable goals and objectives. The standards of these goals will meet the requirements as set by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004). Discussion will be on the components of the Individualized Education Plan and meeting students’ needs that satisfy the Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) mandates as set forth in IDEIA 2004.

EDU 701B Transition for Students with Disabilities This course addresses the eligibility requirements, services, opportunities and the approaches needed in preparing students with disabilities from school to working life. The IDEA law requires schools to prepare a transition plan for students with disabilities. This plan encompasses the transition from school to post secondary opportunities including education, vocational training, employment, and independent living for youth and young individuals with disabilities.

EDU 704A Methods of Teaching Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders This course will concentrate on strategies for special and regular education teachers to work successfully with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Students will explore best practices and learn about the various disorders and the characteristics associated with each diagnosis in the spectrum. The student will utilize either case study or a student of their choice (diagnosed with ASD) to develop specific teaching strategies to better serve this student in his/her current setting. Activities on schedules of development (written, picture), task analysis and the use of auditory/visual cues will be provided for children with ASD.

EDU 740A Conferencing with Parents and Professionals This course is designed to address critical issues involved with teachers working collaboratively with parents of special education students. It introduces strategies and procedures in conferencing with the parents and professionals involved.

EDU 815 Principles of Social and Emotional Learning This course examines Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) theories and how these theories may be applied to the student’s classroom, home and community environments. Philosophical foundations and historical context for theories of learning with their connection to Social and Emotional Learning will be explored. Focus on how Social and Emotional Learning impacts the student, parent, family, teacher and other educational professionals.

EDU 876C Classroom Strategies for Teaching the Exceptional Child This course introduces the participant to instructional issues for the exceptional child. Participants will explore strategies that facilitate learning for children with various disabilities including students with learning, intellectual, and behavioral disabilities, as well as intellectually gifted students in a typical school setting. The purpose of this course is to train educators in teaching and assessment techniques of exceptional students. Special attention is given to learning modalities and mainstreaming in the regular classroom setting.

EDU 881A Behavior Management for Special Needs Students This course provides an overview of emotional and behavioral problems that children and youth may experience. Psycho-social factors related to these problems will be explored using case studies, film, and current issues. Strategies to respond to these concerns will be presented through role play, behavioral rehearsal and small group problem-solving.

EDU 882 Educational Assessment of Learning Disabled Students This course stresses norm- and criterion-referenced diagnostic techniques with attention given to informal probing and diagnostic teaching strategies. A review of basic measurement concepts is provided.

EDU 887 Legal Issues in Special Education  This course identifies issues of concern in special education. Participants will research and analyze pertinent legal decisions and the implications of educational policy. This class will be highly interactive with discussion, simulations, and case studies.

EDU 893 Ensuring Success for the Student with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) This course focuses on developing a knowledge base for understanding and working with mainstream students with ADHD. A variety of strategies are introduced for remediating the special educational and behavioral needs of students with ADHD.

EDU 893S Introduction to Special Education This course examines federal and state laws of special education, disabilities, recognizing disabilities, and referral and support systems.  This course introduces the special education child from the gifted to the severely/profoundly disabled. Attention will be directed toward legislation and core issues that currently influences the field of special education.

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Supervision

EDU 597A  Supervision and Professional Development in a K-12 Setting  This course will focus on instruction paradigms and clinical supervision techniques.  Strategies for supervision methods will be modeled to include professional communication skills in convening parent meetings as well as evaluating teacher performance, creating improvement plans and developing professional learning communities.  Participants will develop and present a plan to apply methodology of real life scenarios.

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Technology

EDU 553A Microsoft Word This course provides an overview to the popular Microsoft Word Processing Software package. The course begins with the basic introduction to Microsoft Word, progress to intermediate-level topics, and finish with more advanced skills of Microsoft Word.

EDU 553B Microsoft Excel This course provides an overview of Microsoft Excel. In this students learn how to create, edit, save, and retrieve spreadsheets for classroom usage.

EDU 553L Teaching the 21st Century Learner This course focuses on the strategies and knowledge crucial to designing instruction that is meaningful for students in the ever-evolving Digital Age. It will investigate the difference in 21st Century experiences, goals and expectation and their impact on student learning. It will emphasize ways to motivate and engage learners with today’s perspectives. Topics will include authentic assessment, project-based classrooms and job/life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaborative learning, and global awareness.

EDU 605B Internet for Educators This course provides educators and administrators with a basic knowledge of telecommunications. Strategies for “surfing” the Internet are also viewed. Students learn how to maximize professional use of the Information Superhighway, how to access educational news groups and mailing lists, and how to browse web sites.

EDU 605W Web Based Instruction in the Classroom This course focuses on incorporating the use of technology into current curriculum. Participants will learn how to enhance their instruction through the use of technology and online resources. The International Standards for Technology in Education will be reviewed. Participants will be able to update current lessons to meet today’s technology driven education demands.

EDU 615R Engaging the Power of Remote Learning The one sure thing about the future is that it will involve change. Nowhere is this more evident than in schools, where remote learning is rapidly becoming the ‘new normal’, from early childhood education through high school graduation. This course will foster awareness of the impact of remote learning on students academically and emotionally. It will examine current research and expectations by a variety of experts. It will offer practical knowledge of a range of options and strategies for online teaching, methods of effective assessment, and ideas for maintaining engagement with both students and families. It will address essential variation in remote education for the numerous groups who face unique challenges in learning, as well as the role of technology. On completion of this course, participants will benefit from numerous ideas shared among colleagues that will provide a dynamic toolkit of
digital tools and lesson ideas for use in remote learning.

EDU 976C Power Point for Educators This course provides an overview of PowerPoint. In this hands-on course, participants will learn to create and work with presentations that will enhance teaching and learning in the classroom.

ITEC 500 Introduction to Data Analytics for Professionals In this course students will learn to organize, format, evaluate, clean, summarize and analyze data using Excel spreadsheets. Course topics include basic spreadsheet tasks including navigation, using formulas, filtering, sorting, look-up functions, and pivot tables. This course will provide basic knowledge for using Excel spreadsheets for Data Analysis. It covers the first steps in working with spreadsheets to analyze data. A working knowledge of Microsoft Excel is required.

ITEC 501 Introduction to Data Visualization for Professionals In this course students will learn to create pivot tables, pivot charts and dashboards to analyze, detect trends, answer questions, or draw conclusions. Participants will use Excel application as an analysis tool. Data visualization plays an important role in the representation of data. A working knowledge of Microsoft Excel is required.

MTS 601 Introduction to Web Page Design  This course provides an introduction to designing web pages. Students will create their own web pages in class.

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Writing

EDU 540B Methods of Teaching Writing in the Content Area This course addresses the importance of incorporating writing education into all content areas.  Participants will use writing techniques to implement content and evaluate written work relevant to their grade level and subject.  Methods and strategies to reach all learning styles will be discussed.

EDU 607W Writing Composition This course explores professional and academic writing with the purpose of developing participant’s effectiveness as writers and deepening their awareness of clear communication. The course teaches participants to write well-organized, logically sound, rhetorically effective, and grammatically correct communications for the educational setting. The skills and processes of writing including word choice, organization, structure and syntax in professional writing will be reinforced through numerous essays, in-class drafts and other assignments on grammar and mechanics. Research techniques, as well as citation best practices will be reviewed.

EDU 917 Teaching Writing to Children  This course examines strategies of teaching children basic principles of writing. By encouraging children to use their own experiences, teachers learn to help children feel that writing is a tool for developing skills in observing and understanding themselves and their world.

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