Online Master’s in Teaching and Learning

This course focuses on the examination of learning theories and models of instruction. A variety of theoretical constructs are studied to address diverse learning needs and conceptual frameworks for engaging learners. Students will explore theoretical perspectives on learning, cognition, and cognitive development. By examining a range of principles, perspectives and tools, students will gain an understanding of learning and teaching in a variety of contexts. Students will use problem solving, application, and evaluation skills to analyze the theories and practices of educational organizations.

Credits: 3

This course provides educators with an overview of the legal, ethical, and social issues that are unique in the 21st century learning environment. Topics such as learner privacy online, the appropriate uses of newer technologies, copyright, and intellectual property on the Internet will be presented. Students will also examine privacy law and contemporary legal issues of the 21st century classrooms.

Credits: 3

This course delves into the foundational elements of instructional design, focusing on the integration of learning theories and the application of the Backward Design framework. Participants will master the principles of Backward Design, ensuring that instruction is purposefully structured around desired learning outcomes. Emphasis will be placed on the identification and application of research-based strategies to promote inclusivity in instructional design, ensuring diverse learners' needs are met. Throughout the course, students will engage in the comprehensive instructional design process, culminating in the development of effective instructional materials.

Credits: 3

This course offers an in-depth exploration into the intricacies of assessment frameworks and their role in the learning process. Students will critically evaluate various assessment frameworks, pinpointing the essential components that make an assessment tool effective and reliable. The course emphasizes the importance of feedback, providing strategies to enhance learning outcomes through timely and constructive critiques. Using real-world learner data, participants will hone their skills in data analysis, ensuring instruction is responsive and tailored to learners' needs. Lastly, students will delve into the best methods to visually represent assessment data, enabling clear communication of results to diverse stakeholders.

Credits: 3

This course examines how present and emerging technologies are transforming society and schools and the implications these changes have for teaching and learning. Strategies for building students' critical thinking habits, innovation, and creativity with respect to new technologies and media will be developed in the context of 21st century literacies (information, visual, etc.). Students will explore the practical context for the use of technology and will develop skills that identify and address the challenge of using technology creatively in teaching and learning situations today.

Credits: 3

This course offers a comprehensive look into the learning theories and models that cater to culturally and linguistically diverse learners. Students will critically examine how socio-emotional factors, including cultural background and language barriers, can deeply influence the learning trajectory. Participants will learn to seamlessly integrate strategies into their teaching, ensuring that diverse learner needs are met effectively. The course culminates in a synthesis of various learning theories and models, empowering students to pinpoint and apply strategies that bolster cultural responsiveness in educational settings.

Credits: 3

This capstone course brings together the knowledge and skills needed to define and research an educational problem or professional practice. Students utilize data, strategy, research skills, analytical tools, theoretical models, and decision sciences in this research project that can be of strategic benefit to a professional or educational organization.

Credits: 3

This research-based course is an opportunity for students to integrate and synthesize their learning across the program curriculum and demonstrate the skills needed to be an effective educator in today's global community. The culminating professional project will be framed around nationally recognized educator effectiveness knowledge, skills, and standards that can be of strategic benefit to a professional or educational organization. Prerequisite: All core and specialization courses. 

Credits: 3