EDF - Education Foundations - Grad

Course introduces the candidate to the nature and structure of language, current theories of language, normal first and second language development, language disorders, multicultural issues in language assessment, and contemporary classroom management of language deficits.  Topics are examined from an educational perspective to enhance the teacher's knowledge of language and to facilitate classroom management of language deficits exhibited by exceptional children in grades PreK-12.

Course focuses on the practices and problems associated with the development, monitoring, and organization of multiple school based special education services.  Course addresses how to link evaluation results to writing the Multidisciplinary report and the IEP, as well as exploring the differences in using the Individual Family Service Plan for early childhood settings.  Emphasis placed on collaborative relationships within the school community and the development of consultation and communication skills.

Focus of course is to explore the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity in communication, learning, and behavior.  Special emphasis on the contrast between what is considered normal language/learning development in the presence of culturally and linguistically diverse special needs PreK-12 students.  Other topics include differentiating instruction and lesson planning based on individual needs with a focus on adaptation, accommodation, and modification.

Contemporary and traditional philosophies of education related to diversity, school outcomes and change. Develop and assess learning programs designed to integrate a philosophy of change with beliefs about learners, teachers, schools and communities.

Provides candidate with understanding of historical, philosophical, social, legal, and ethical foundations of education. Topics include educational policy and impact on schools and classrooms as well as the aspects of child-to-late adolescence development (cognitive, social, emotional).

Examination of models of research and application of scientific methods to investigate, analyze and develop solutions relative to current issues in the field. Cross-listed with PYF 7162.

Develop conceptual and analytical skills and knowledge to assess organizational needs and program effectiveness through the use of research methodologies.

In-depth study of variability among students in schools and other educational settings from preschool to adult learning. Special focus on the identification of and programming for at-risk students.

Examines the role of the leader in assessing and responding to change and techniques of change management including consultation, site-based councils and conflict resolution. Topics also include organization, facilitation and communication for change.

Course studies the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on communication, learning, and behavior.  Topics include the contrast between what is considered normal language/learning development with special emphasis on the culturally and linguistically diverse special needs of P-12 students.  Also covered are differentiating instruction and lesson planning based on individual needs and focusing on adaptions, accommodations, and modifications.  Field experience required.

Examination of the role of the counselor in elementary, secondary and community college settings including counselor, advisor, educator, advocate and consultant. Study of exemplary models of school counseling programs effective with diverse and changing populations.

Course examines how school leaders can create an atmosphere for improved student achievement based on data-driven systems.  Topics include increased external accountability and data demands, as well as the ability to accurately interpret the data and implement positive learning opportunities based on the analysis of said data.

Course examines skills and knowledge needed for a school leader to effectively work with others in the problem solving process within diverse populations.  Topics include analysis and implementation of effective consensus-building as well as the exploration of one's own assumptions, beliefs, and practices.  Analysis and development of effective lines of communication and partnerships with decision makers outside the school community are also explored.

Prepare major culminating scholarly project directly relevant to the program of study. Approved project proposal required.