MA in Teaching

Sets forth an interdisciplinary view of the foundations of reading and writing and the development and acquisition of literacy. The class addresses theories in such fields as linguistics, cognitive psychology and child development as they are seen in language and literacy development of the emerging elementary reader/writer. The course examines the history of various instructional methodologies and the research documenting their effectiveness. The class reviews current approaches to all parts of the acquisition of literacy, such as direct instruction of phonics, whole language, language experience, literature-based curricula and the writing process. [ 3 credits ]

Exposes teachers to a variety of quality texts and other media, fiction and non-fiction for use in the elementary classroom, across the curriculum. Criteria for selecting and evaluating materials and strategies for use in all areas of instruction, with attention to student and text diversity issues will be explored. [ 3 credits ]

Provides students with a background in assessment and its relationship to instruction. Students will learn about the variety of assessments available to the classroom teacher in the areas of reading and writing. Students will learn how to administer, score and interpret the results of various assessments. Instructional decisions regarding the educational program of the child will also be examined. [ 3 credits ]

Emphasizes integration of content and process through demonstration, investigative and inquiry approaches. Addresses the three domains of knowledge, skills and attitudes. Attention is given to recent trends, national and state standards, and the use of indicators in planning instruction and assessing. Includes preparation of instructional units and microteaching experience. [ 3 credits ]

Surveys and critiques curriculum methods and materials for early childhood programs, preschool through primary grades. Instruction in assessment, planning and implementation of interdisciplinary activities to stimulate the cognitive, linguistic, social, and motor development. [ 3 credits ]

Explores selected aspects of human development related to learning and instruction. Major psychological concepts and learning theories will be examined and applied to the context of education. Emphasis will be placed on understanding cognitive and affective domains of development as well as behavior management, motivation, individual differences in learning and instructional practices. Includes reflection, classroom activities, educational philosophy and class-room instruction. [ 3 credits ]

Examines aims, organization and administration of American secondary schools. Principles of curriculum organization and design for middle and senior high schools. Curriculum development in school systems, in specific schools, and in academic disciplines. Multicultural and gender issues are considered. Class is interrelated with methods courses in study and application of principles of teaching-learning, uses of technology for instruction, analysis of teaching, assessment of classroom management. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

This course equips mainstream classroom teachers with the knowledge and skills required to address the linguistic needs of students whose language is one other than English. After reviewing recent demographic trends and legal mandates as they pertain to English Language Learners (ELLs) in public schools, this course analyzes factors that influence the challenges of ELLs in K-12, including prior education, first language literacy skills, English proficiency, and cultural issues. Special emphasis will be placed on the linguistic demands of the K-12 curriculum and effective pedagogical approaches for ELLS. [ 3 credits ]

Examines objectives, nature and place of the academic disciplines in the secondary school. Readings include courses of study, current research in methodology and texts and material for teaching. Each course focuses on model and techniques for teaching each subject to diverse students at the secondary level. Includes long and short range planning, inclusion strategies interrelated with curriculum and resources in application of teaching, learning theory in such areas as direct instruction, cooperative learning, inquiry and discovery, motivation, questioning, discussion, classroom management and assessment of outcomes. Presentation and evaluation of demonstration lessons. Videotaping for analysis of teaching. [ 3 credits ]

Reviews current research findings related to integrated language arts instruction and their impact on classroom practices in schools. Numerous strategies and methods to develop and enhance the elementary student's reading, writing, listening and speaking skills are explored. A variety of management techniques will be discussed. [ 3 credits ]

Focuses on student assessment and the relationship of assessment practices to instructional decisionmaking. Students will consider, analyze and apply a variety of approaches for interpreting individual and group behavior based on relevant research and best practices. Traditional assessment techniques, using standardized and criterion instruments, will be explored, as well as direct performance and portfolio assessments. Both classroom and clinical practice assessment strategies will be explored. [ 3 credits ]

Provides an advanced study of how to teach reading and writing to all students using motivating and accessible texts. Participants analyze literacy (the reading and writing process) to understand how levels of literacy are not absolute. Literacy is relative and depends on the diverse culture, language, background experiences, and skills of the reader and the kind of text presented. Participants learn how to informally assess their students' levels of literacy and analyze texts for level of readability. Various reading and writing approaches and strategies in the content areas are modeled and demonstrated in class by the instructors and the participants. Participants learn how reading and writing are social acts of communication as they work together in this class discussing their own reading and writing. Participants compile a variety of texts (including materials for computer use) in the content areas in order to meet the needs of all of their students. [ 3 credits ]

Encourages an open inquiry into the nature of global education as a means to prepare students for intelligent participation in the contemporary world. Classroom materials and techniques are used to explore global issues, such as hunger, poverty, the environmental crisis, international development and world peace. Integrates content with pedagogy. [ 3 credits ]

Introduces learners to technology as a tool for classroom instruction and management. Students will be given opportunities in planning, designing and producing projects that meet the instructional needs of students. The projects encompass skills in word processing, video, Web pages, multimedia and other technologies. Students examine online information services and the integration of technology into the curriculum and practice. [ 3 credits ]

Presents the conceptual framework and methodology for teaching reading and writing at the secondary level. Emphasizes the holistic and developmental nature of reading/writing/learning processes. Explores literacy as a cultural, sociological phenomenon. Includes techniques for skill assessment and development in the oral and language areas of speaking and listening and in the written language areas of reading and writing. Emphasis is on language skill refinement across the curriculum as well as strategies for students with varying learning styles and needs. Explores the interactive nature of reading, the reading/ writing connection and ways to integrate literature within the various disciplines across the curriculum. Discusses the teacher role in developing independent learning strategies and literacy for life. Includes preparation of lesson plans, activities and materials as well as strategies for organizing and managing literacy instruction in the content areas. [ 3 credits ]

Provides an internship in the appropriate subject and grade level in public schools for a period of 20 weeks, variably arranged according to program (MAT-or ACT.) Gradual immersion into teaching. Builds upon and extends activities of the clinical field experiences in observing and analyzing student behaviors; learning about the school; establishing professional relationships with students, parents, staff; observing and analyzing teaching. Interns begin by planning and teaching specific skills (for example, the inquiry method) with one or more classes, analyze progress with the guidance of the supervising teacher, and gradually assume responsibility for the entire teaching schedule. Interns are expected to demonstrate skill in: long range and daily planning, uses of technology, use of teaching strategies identified in the Maryland Instructional Frameworks (critical thinking, problem solving, inductive thinking, questioning, reading and writing for meaning, constructing meaning). Supervision by master teacher and college supervisor. Student teaching portfolio. Extra fee required. [ 2-5 credits ] Note: Students preparing for dual certification enroll in designated alternative sections of appropriate internships for 3 credits each. Consult program advisor before registering. NOTE: Student Teaching Internships may start earlier than the official term start dates. Please refer to the information received at the internship orientation or contact the Education Department.

Provides an internship in the appropriate subject and grade level in public schools for a period of 20 weeks, variably arranged according to program (MAT-or ACT.) Gradual immersion into teaching. Builds upon and extends activities of the clinical field experiences in observing and analyzing student behaviors; learning about the school; establishing professional relationships with students, parents, staff; observing and analyzing teaching. Interns begin by planning and teaching specific skills (for example, the inquiry method) with one or more classes, analyze progress with the guidance of the supervising teacher, and gradually assume responsibility for the entire teaching schedule. Interns are expected to demonstrate skill in: long range and daily planning, uses of technology, use of teaching strategies identified in the Maryland Instructional Frameworks (critical thinking, problem solving, inductive thinking, questioning, reading and writing for meaning, constructing meaning). Supervision by master teacher and college supervisor. Student teaching portfolio. Extra fee required. [ variable 2-5 credits ] Prerequisite: Permission of department chair. Note: Students preparing for dual certification enroll in designated alternative sections of appropriate internships for 3 credits each. Consult program advisor before registering. NOTE: Student Teaching Internships may start earlier than the official term start dates. Please refer to the information received at the internship orientation or contact the Education Department.

Enables students to develop and apply skills, knowledge and abilities in the construction and implementation of action research plans for the improvement of classroom teaching and learning. A structured series of learning activities will be assigned to develop skills in research methodology and data analysis. Students will be provided experience in the analysis and interpretation of their endeavors and the opportunity to gauge the extent to which the application of learned skills facilitates educational problem solving. Instruction integrated with activities of the appropriate internship. Concurrent enrollment in the internship expected; exception by permission of MAT coordinator only. [ 3 credits ]

Provides an internship in the appropriate subject and grade level in public schools for a period of 20 weeks, variably arranged according to program (MAT-or ACT.) Gradual immersion into teaching. Builds upon and extends activities of the clinical field experiences in observing and analyzing student behaviors; learning about the school; establishing professional relationships with students, parents, staff; observing and analyzing teaching. Interns begin by planning and teaching specific skills (for example, the inquiry method) with one or more classes, analyze progress with the guidance of the supervising teacher, and gradually assume responsibility for the entire teaching schedule. Interns are expected to demonstrate skill in: long range and daily planning, uses of technology, use of teaching strategies identified in the Maryland Instructional Frameworks (critical thinking, problem solving, inductive thinking, questioning, reading and writing for meaning, constructing meaning). Supervision by master teacher and college supervisor. Student teaching portfolio. Extra fee required. [ 2-5 credits ] Prerequisite: Permission of department chair. Note: Students preparing for dual certification enroll in designated alternative sections of appropriate internships for 3 credits each. Consult program advisor before registering. NOTE: Student Teaching Internships may start earlier than the official term start dates. Please refer to the information received at the internship orientation or contact the Education Department.

Addresses the rights of special needs students, legal foundations, the attitudes and needs of parents and the responsibilities of educators. Explores characteristics of exceptionalities. Designed for the classroom teacher, this course stresses strategies for inclusion and adaptations for the regular classroom. Includes discussions with professionals. [ 3 credits ]

Introduces the diagnostic processes used in special education for students from birth to adulthood. Includes informal and formal assessment methods as well as analysis, interpretation and presentation of test results. Course content covers federally mandated assessment regulations. The course includes prescriptive techniques and instructional planning for special needs students at the secondary level. [ 3 credits ]

Introduces the diagnostic processes used in special education. Includes student conducted informal and formal assessments as well as analysis, interpretation and presentation of test results. Covers prescriptive techniques and instructional planning. Note: Students with prior experience in special needs testing should enroll in SPE-545. [ 3 credits ]

Provides the student with methods to facilitate the teaching of students with significant learning and behavioral differences. The course content addresses cognitive processing, classroom management and behavioral support strategies. Models of instructional delivery, adaptation of instructional materials, strategy instruction and means of assessing students' progress are explored. Current trends, issues, and legislation updates are included as well. [ 3 credits ]

Explores a broad spectrum of classroom and
behavior management strategies as well as generic
and subject specific study, organizational and
self-regulatory skills. Course will focus on
research support as well as systematic, effective
implementation. (Expansion of the strategies
component of SPE-527 Teaching Special Needs
Students in Inclusive Settings, a course offered
in the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program).
This course will provide participants with the
knowledge and skills necessary to design learning
environments that facilitate understanding,
foster responsibility for learning, encourage
peer interaction, create opportunities for
collaborative learning and support inclusion for
elementary with disabilities. Instructional
approaches, researched based practices and
program models for diverse learners will be
presented. Participants will develop individual
education plans with goals and accommodations
that align to state standards, promote student
access to general education curriculum and meet
legal requirements.[ 3 credits ]

Develops the knowledge and skills to assist individuals with disabilities in transitioning from school to postsecondary life. Transition planning will be defined and related disability legislation explored. The family's role in transition will be discussed as well as empowering student selfdetermination and involvement. Person-centered practices to individualize the transition process will be explored. Community transition planning will be emphasized, including interagency agreement. Teaching for transition, finding vocational placements for students, pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities and independent living supports will be examined. Students will learn to design and implement individual transition plans for youth with mild to significant disabilities. [ 3 credits ]

Focuses on effective leadership and communication
skills for school-based personnel, with a
particular focus on Special Education
teacher-leaders. We will explore leadership,
communication, group dynamics, and address issues
related to effective, collaborative team
coordination in various programs providing
services to school age children. "Teaming" for
academic and social/emotional concerns, effective
preventive interventions, resolving conflict,
utilization of school and community resources,
and effective communication with parents or
primary caretakers, and support or monitoring
agencies will be included. [ 3 credits ]

Provides an internship in the appropriate subject and grade level in public schools for a period of 20 weeks, variably arranged according to program (MAT-or ACT.) Gradual immersion into teaching. Builds upon and extends activities of the clinical field experiences in observing and analyzing student behaviors; learning about the school; establishing professional relationships with students, parents, staff; observing and analyzing teaching. Interns begin by planning and teaching specific skills (for example, the inquiry method) with one or more classes, analyze progress with the guidance of the supervising teacher, and gradually assume responsibility for the entire teaching schedule. Interns are expected to demonstrate skill in: long range and daily planning, uses of technology, use of teaching strategies identified in the Maryland Instructional Frameworks (critical thinking, problem solving, inductive thinking, questioning, reading and writing for meaning, constructing meaning). Supervision by master teacher and college supervisor. Student teaching portfolio. Extra fee required. [ 2-5 credits ] Prerequisite: Permission of department chair. Note: Students preparing for dual certification enroll in designated alternative sections of appropriate internships for 3 credits each. Consult program advisor before registering. NOTE: Student Teaching Internships may start earlier than the official term start dates. Please refer to the information received at the internship orientation or contact the Education Department.