Master of Arts in Education
Master of Arts in Education

Demonstrate your commitment to a career in education with your Master of Arts in Education earned online from Ashford University. Make an impact on our nation's schools with the expertise that derives from an advanced degree.
Degree Focus
The Master of Arts in Education at Ashford University is designed to present a foundational perspective and increased specialization for educational leaders. Your core courses define the foundation of knowledge and skills for you to provide instruction to diverse populations. You will study in depth those areas that most influence educational institutions, including instructional methods, curriculum design, assessment strategies, advanced pedagogical theory, and principles of leadership. Your specialization options are composed of courses that you can select for yourself, based on your personal interests and expertise.
Career Opportunities
You will benefit from opportunities to advance your career with a degree in education at the Master's level. While teaching positions may only require state certification, most school districts require candidates to hold a Master of Arts in Education before advancing to senior management positions. Among the many education careers available to graduates are:
- School leader
- District office administrator
- Program director
- Dean of students
- School board member
- Curriculum developer
- Educational consultant
- Education policy analyst
Certification / Licensure Terms and Conditions
Successful completion of the Master of Arts in Education program does not lead to certification or licensure. Completing the Master of Arts in Education by itself will not qualify a student for certification or licensure in any state. It is the student's responsibility to determine individual state licensure requirements for teacher certification or licensure. Please refer to the Education Resource Organizations Directory (EROD) page for individual state requirements for teacher certification or licensure. Please be advised that states change their policies from time to time and students are advised to check with their state regulatory agencies' policies and procedures relating to licensure in that state on a regular basis. Further, a criminal record may prevent an applicant from obtaining licensure, certification or employment in this field of study. For additional information, please refer to your state licensing board or agency.
Specializations
Sharpen the focus of your degree when you select your specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree. Set your course to reach the pinnacle of your education career. Choose from the following specializations:
- Assessment & Measurement
- Child Development
- Culturally Responsive Education
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Distance Learning
- Early Childhood Education
- Education & Public Policy
- Educational Technology Leadership
- English Language Learners
- Family & Community Services
- Higher Education
- Library & Media
- Mathematics Instruction
- Reading Literacy
- Special Education
- Teacher Leader
Assessment & Measurement (12 credits)
Tailor your education degree for success. Choose the Assessment and Measurement specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to build your competence in making decisions based on research data.
The Assessment and Measurement specialization prepares you to design, develop, and implement performance-based assessments. You will learn task analysis and design, scoring schema, and assessment delivery.
Child Development (12 credits)
Tailor your teaching to children at all levels. Choose the Child Development specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to build awareness and understanding of the natural milestones in child development.
The Child Development specialization allows you to examine developmentally appropriate methods for teaching young children. You will learn to establish partnerships with families and communities, customize instruction for specific learners, and identify developmental levels in education.
Culturally Responsive Education (12 credits)
Support learning for all students. Select the Culturally Responsive Education specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to become aware and respectful of the impact of culture on interactions with others.
The Culturally Responsive Education specialization allows you to respond to students' and families' fundamental cultural differences as you provide equitable learning. You will learn to establish partnerships with families and communities, plan instruction for diverse learners, and identify cultural impacts on education.
Curriculum & Instruction (15 credits)
Be an agent for change. Focus your Master of Arts in Education degree with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction to build the skills to develop both an engaging curriculum and a caring and responsive learning environment.
The Curriculum and Instruction specialization covers such diverse topics as systems thinking, metacognition, and differentiated instruction. You will learn to introduce change in education by designing instructional models for increased achievement.
Distance Learning (12 credits)
Place yourself at the cutting edge of the 21st century classroom. Choose the Distance Learning specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to gain the skills you need to use technology to deliver effective instruction.
The Distance Learning specialization explores powerful innovations that redefine teaching and learning. You will learn needs assessment, content sequencing, and how to write requests for proposals for technology training — all so that you can inform, motivate, and prepare learners.
Early Childhood Education (12 credits)
Launch your career as an expert in child development when you select the Early Childhood Education specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree. Strengthen your skills as an educator for young people.
The Early Childhood Education specialization covers language acquisition, classroom management, and the impact of families and communities on schools. You will learn to design primary-school curricula, deliver differentiated instruction to children, and collaborate with parents and communities.
Education & Public Policy (12 credits)
Take action on behalf of our schools. Choose the Education and Public Policy specialization to develop the knowledge you need to participate and lead policy initiatives.
The Education and Public Policy specialization prepares you for challenging positions in government, non-profits, and schools. You will learn the politics of policy development and implementation so as to make a difference in education.
Educational Technology Leadership (12 credits)
Be a leader in teaching with technology. Focus your Master of Arts in Education degree with a specialization in Educational Technology Leadership to build the knowledge you need to be a change agent in both educational and corporate environments.
The Educational Technology Leadership specialization focuses on supporting teachers in embracing technology to support student learning. You will take courses in educational technology, instructional design and delivery, systems thinking, and leadership.
English Language Learner (12 credits)
Teach the whole world when you choose the English Language Learner specialization in conjunction with your Master of Arts in Education degree. Gain an understanding of the implications of diverse languages for student learning and achievement, as well as techniques for teaching English.
The English Language Learner specialization focuses on addressing the needs of those for whom English is not the first language. You will study integrative strategies and methods, in addition to English syntax, grammar, and pronunciation.
Family & Community Services (12 credits)
Take a stand for families. Choose the Family & Community Services specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to build parent and community involvement.
The Family & Community Services specialization trains you to work in community service positions, including: child welfare, social work, mental health, family counseling, and community outreach.
Higher Education (12 credits)
If you aspire to teach in a college or university, these courses are for you. Choose the Higher Education specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to understand the relationships between planning and adult learning at the course, program, and institutional levels.
The Higher Education specialization explores factors that affect adult learning, and the organizational cultures that promote or inhibit learning. You will examine curriculum, assessment, and student development in the post-secondary environment.
Library & Media (12 credits)
Discover your passion. Choose the Library & Media specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to understand the role of school librarians and media specialists.
The Library & Media specialization trains you to use information technology and other library resources. You will learn about information literacy, young adult literature, and instructional leadership.
Mathematics Instruction (12 credits)
Augment your education. Add the Mathematics Instruction specialization to your Master of Arts in Education degree to teach math and algebra.
The Mathematics Instruction specialization enhances your instructional skills as a teacher at multiple grade levels, from pre-kindergarten through middle school.
Reading Literacy (12 credits)
Open new worlds when you choose the Reading Literacy specialization in conjunction with your Master of Arts in Education degree. Gain an understanding of the necessary skills for instruction in reading and writing.
The Reading Literacy specialization includes intervention strategies for struggling readers. You will study reading comprehension, young adult literature, and reading skills assessment.
Special Education (12 credits)
Open up education to all students. Select the Special Education specialization for your Master of Arts in Education degree to support the needs of exceptional students in school programs.
The Special Education specialization allows you to respond to students' diverse abilities and styles as you provide equitable learning. You will learn classroom management, as well as how to identify disabilities and special abilities.
Teacher Leader (12 credits)
Be a leader in education! With your specialization in Teacher Leader added to your Master of Arts in Education degree from Ashford University, you will develop the skills you need to bring about change and meet the needs of all students.
The Teacher Leader specialization looks at educational institutions in their socio-political contexts, from a systems-thinking perspective. You will learn to monitor and evaluate curriculum and instruction, and to lead the change process for improved achievement.
The online courses in this graduate curriculum are taught by advanced-degree faculty with real-world experience in the subjects they teach.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Master of Arts in Education
Program Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the Master of Arts in Education degree program will be able to:
- Analyze basic and educational needs of diverse learners within the context of a community;
- Identify and apply components of differentiated instruction within the classroom in delivering core content to multiple learning needs;
- Analyze and implement assessment strategies for the educational setting and program improvement;
- Implement research principles in the design and delivery of instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners;
- Demonstrate knowledge of designing effective curriculum and instructional processes within the educational setting;
- Apply leadership principles in advancing classroom practices for diverse learning needs within the profession; and
- Demonstrate reflective and critical analyses of curriculum and instructional delivery models in meeting the needs of diverse learners.
Program Requirements
To be awarded the Master of Arts in Education degree, all students must complete 36 credits, with a 3.00 minimum grade point average. Students enrolled in the Curriculum and Instruction specialization are required to complete 39 total program credits.
Program Disclosures
Federal regulations published in October, 2010 require institutions to report certain information about students who enrolled in Title IV eligible educational programs that lead to gainful employment in a recognized occupation (GE programs). These required disclosures include a program’s 1) program costs; 2) on-time completion rates; 3) median loan debt; 4) links to O*NET SOC descriptions; and 5) placement rates. Please find all of the required information at this link: Program Disclosures.
Admission Requirements
- Must have a regionally or approved nationally accredited Bachelor's degree with minimum 2.0 GPA.
- English Language Requirement
Technology Requirements
Competencies
Students must possess the following online competencies:
- Ability to access course and program material on the Internet;
- Ability to correspond with University staff, students, and faculty using email and the Internet; and
- Ability to use appropriate antivirus utilities so that files transmitted and received are virus free.
System requirements
The following minimum system configuration and software are required:
- Platforms: Mac OS X 10.2 or higher or Windows XP or higher;
- Hardware: 256 Mb RAM, CD-ROM, and 1 Gb free disk space;
- Productivity Software: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2003 or higher; Adobe Reader 8.0 or higher; Adobe Flash 10 or higher (Constellation users);
- Web Browser: Firefox 3.0 or higher, Internet Explorer 8.0 or higher, Safari 4.0 or higher, or Chrome;
- Networking: 56k dialup modem, DSL, or Cable modem;
- Email: Outlook, Outlook Express, Mac Mail, Eudora, Entourage, or Yahoo/Hotmail/Gmail.
Recommended for optimal performance
- Productivity Software: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2007 or higher;
- Networking: Broadband Internet connection (DSL, cable, or other);
- Constellation users: Windows Media Player 7 or higher, sound card and speakers.
Transferability
Transfer up to 9 semester credits from a regionally or approved nationally accredited college or university.* Call now for more information at 866.711.1700.
* The transferability of credits is subject to Ashford University transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. The official transcripts will be evaluated to determine the credits that will officially apply toward an Ashford University degree program.
Online Format
You will take your courses one at a time for 6 weeks each, accelerating your path to graduation. Your course content is delivered in a high-tech format, and you can complete your weekly assignments when and where it's convenient for you thanks to the asynchronous online environment.
Cost*
Your tuition rates are among the lowest available online at $510 per credit. You will also be responsible for fees to enroll. View complete cost of attendance. Call today to learn more at 866.711.1700.
* Tuition costs subject to change without notice.
Payment Options
- Cash Plan – 100% of tuition and fees paid on or before each course start date.
- Tuition Reimbursement – If your employer offers a tuition reimbursement plan, we'll work with you to apply this great benefit toward your education.
- Financial Aid – You may be eligible for financial aid. Talk to an Admissions Counselor to find out if you meet the requirements to qualify.
- Direct (Employer) Billing – If you work for a company approved for direct billing, you may qualify for this payment option.
- Military Tuition Assistance – Includes active-duty service and Veterans Affairs benefits, such as GI Bill and Vocational Rehab, if you qualify. Learn more about military benefits.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Master of Arts in Education
Benefit from opportunities to advance your career with your Master of Arts in Education. Your degree program consists of 8 core courses, worth 24 credits, plus an additional specialization worth 12 credits. Students enrolled in the Curriculum and Instruction specialization are required to complete 15 credits beyond the 24 credit core.
In addition to course readings, you will be required to view selected video resources from Educational Impact. You will view different video segments, depending on the specific course. All video materials are available for your review and learning at any time. All students are required to purchase this resource at a single subscription price of $125.00, which gives you access for the duration of your online degree program at Ashford University. There will be no additional subscription fees for this service during your program. For more information on these video resources, please see http://www.educationalimpact.com/.
Course Requirements
Specializations
- Assessment & Measurement
- Child Development
- Culturally Responsive Education
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Distance Learning
- Early Childhood Education
- Education & Public Policy
- Educational Technology Leadership
- English Language Learners
- Family & Community Services
- Higher Education
- Library & Media
- Mathematics Instruction
- Reading Literacy
- Special Education
- Teacher Leader
Course Requirements
(24 credit hours. All courses are worth 3 credits unless otherwise noted. Courses are listed in their recommended sequence.)
EDU 623 Introduction to Teaching & Learning
This course is designed to introduce the student to the Master of Arts in Education Program. Students will engage in self-assessment and reflection focused on the philosophy of serving the needs of all students within the context of the community.
EDU 645 Learning & Assessment for the 21st Century
Students will learn important terminology defining the basic concepts for both formative and summative assessment. Exploration of different types of assessment tools and their use to inform instruction in the classroom will be included in this course. Equivalent to EDU 618. Offered online and on-campus.
EDU 620 Meeting Individual Student Needs with Technology
This course fosters awareness of individual learner characteristics which impede successful achievement. Milder forms of learning disabilities, emotional disorders, and dysfunctional social conditions that are prevalent in typical instructional situations will be discussed. Alternative pedagogies utilizing computer technology applications and online instruction to alleviate such barriers will be explored.
EDU 626 Research Design & Methodology
In this course the student accesses sources of educational information, evaluates research evidence, studies various types of educational resources, and applies research to the instructional setting. The focus of this course is research on issues in educational technology and the use of technology tools for making data-driven decisions using both quantitative and qualitative methods.
EDU 639 Human Relationships & Learning in the Multicultural Environment
Students will explore and experience the impact of interpersonal communication concepts and skills upon the creation and maintenance of positive human relationships. The student will develop a knowledge base of selected cultural groups to acquire the competency to identify basic cultural modalities that have an effect upon the teaching and learning processes. Students will demonstrate the integration of the course content to their own personal values and teaching styles. The student will also demonstrate application of human relationship skills to the educational setting and the community.
EDU 673 Instructional Strategies for Differentiated Teaching & Learning
Students focus on learning about current methods of differentiated teaching at the level in their chosen content area. The course is organized around four components of the teaching cycle: (1) Assessing student learning needs, (2) Planning for instruction, (3) Implementing strategies, aids, media and resources for effective differentiated instruction, and (4) Conducting assessment and continuing professional development.
EDU 675 Change Leadership for the Differentiated Educational Environment
This course focuses on leadership in the educational environment to bring about change needed to meet learning needs of all students. Students will evaluate and reflect on their personal leadership in their educational environment. Leadership tools to provide increased learning opportunities will be used to design learning experiences and evaluate results.
EDU 695 Master of Arts in Education Capstone
The Capstone is a course in which students will demonstrate their attainment of the program outcomes through application of a research topic related to an educational setting need or interest. This capstone experience is designed to extensively explore a topic within the student's area of specialization and will be taken upon successful completion of all specialization courses.
Specializations
You must choose one of the following specializations to add to your degree program (12-15 credits):
Assessment & Measurement (12 credits)
EDU 660 Tests & Measurements
This course will explore the selection and use of tests and measurements for individuals planning career in school and non-school settings. Technical skills will be examined for selecting and properly employing tests and measurements (reliability, validity, norming, test scores) and major types of tests such as ability, intelligence, achievement, personality, family, and behavioral.
EDU 661 Data Analyses & Decision-Making
This course is designed to focus on technology for the administration and scoring of assessment. The strengths and limitations of technology applications to assessment will be examined.
EDU 663 Assessment & Public Policy
This course provides the foundations and history of program assessment, accountability, and quality assurance to the governance, funding, and purposes of assessment and measurements. Implementation and reporting of assessment data to multiple audiences will be explored. The course will examine the roles of program evaluators in improving performance and achievement.
EDU 665 Performance Assessments
This course is designed to examine the design, development, and implementation of performance-based assessment. Task analysis and design, scoring schema, and assessment delivery are covered through critique and practice.
Child Development (12 credits)
ECE 630 Language, Physical & Social Development in Young Children
This course provides an introduction to the developmental stages of language acquisition, physical and social development in young children from birth to age six. The focus of the course is on the specific developmental milestones in young children.
ECE 653 Cognitive Development of Infants & Young Children
This course deals with theories regarding cognitive development in children from birth to eight years of age including knowledge resulting from brain research. The relationship between the rate of cognitive development and overall development will be explored throughout the course. Students will apply this knowledge to design programs to meet the needs of children with varying needs and abilities.
ECE 654 Assessment & Intervention in Early Childhood
This course explores the issues around early assessment and intervention with young children. Specific developmental concerns will be identified and intervention programs will be examined.
ECE 605 Children & Families in a Diverse Society
This course will provide a clear and practical introduction to multicultural and anti-bias issues and will aid students in developing culturally relevant methods in working with children and families in early childhood settings.
Culturally Responsive Education (12 credits)
EDU 627 Culturally Responsive Learning Environments
This course will explore how cultural influences affect learning. Research-based teaching strategies for diverse populations will be examined. The challenges impacting the teaching and learning within diverse environments will be explored. A learning plan will be developed reflective of considerations to diverse cultural needs.
EDU 647 Families, Communities & Diversity
This course will focus on establishing relationships and partnerships within families and community of diverse cultures. Specific strategies in developing programs promoting cultural competence within families and communities will be explored. Students will analyze available family and community resources within their community in promoting and supporting cultural diversity.
EDU 637 Planning, Implementing & Assessing Instruction for Diverse Learners
This course is designed to develop and assess appropriate instruction and programs for diverse learners. Students will explore the relationships between first and second language proficiency in identifying the cultural influences on learning. Effective instruction and program development will be explored in assessing culturally responsive education.
EDU 638 Intercultural Communications & Global Learning
This course explores communication styles within a culturally diverse environment. Students will examine the effects of oral and nonverbal communication styles. Personal and social barriers within diverse settings will be explored. Students will develop and evaluate a plan to lead efforts in promoting cultural awareness within a work setting. An optional international visit will be offered based upon availability.
Curriculum & Instruction (15 credits)
EDU 674 Foundations & Trends in Curriculum & Instruction
The course will provide an overview of the foundational pieces necessary for effective design and delivery of curriculum and instruction. Current trends will be compared and contrasted with brain-based research from the field. Emphasis will be placed on processes and procedures for developing both an engaging curriculum and a caring and responsive learning environment.
EDU 615 Leading the Change Process in Curriculum & Instruction
The course will explore the role of the change agent in the identification, planning, implementation, and assessment of change initiatives for improved achievement. The impact of change on the individual, course, program, and system level will be studied. Research-based standards for successful leadership will be identified and applied as students examine the impact of administration and management on teaching and learning.
EDU 676 Curriculum & Instruction Design for Increased Achievement
The course will teach a backward design model for curriculum and instruction that emphasizes clear targets and goals for increased achievement. Curriculum integration and mapping techniques will be examined and implemented as students model the power of collaborative planning and individual reflection. A variety of delivery models will be explored.
EDU 677 Monitoring & Evaluating Curriculum & Instruction through Systems Thinking
The course will define and apply the concepts of differentiated instruction and systems thinking in the development of curriculum and instruction. Processes and procedures for monitoring and evaluating programs will lead to an understanding of the complexity of an effective change process for increased achievement.
EDU 678 Seminar in Curriculum & Instruction for Diverse Needs
The course will simulate the real-world role of the change agent in successful implementation of curriculum and instruction for improved teaching and learning. Students will identify a need, develop an action plan, implement the steps of the plan, and evaluate both individual and organizational achievement that results. Prerequisite: completion of the previous four Curriculum & Instruction courses or instructor approval.
Distance Learning (12 credits)
EDU 648 Teaching & Learning with Technology
This first course is an overview of the field of educational technology including instructional design, influence of learning theory on technology application as well as the various technologies available and their application to learning.
EDU 652 Instructional Design & Delivery
This course covers various elements of the instructional design process including needs assessment, instructional problems, learner characteristics, instructional objectives, content sequencing, instructional strategies, and evaluation instruments. Students are expected to learn how to plan, develop, evaluate, and manage the design of effective instructional materials.
EDU 655 Trends & Issues in Instructional Design & Technology for Online Learning
Students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to design effective instructional materials for use in an on-line learning environment. Powerful innovations that may redefine teaching and learning practices will be explored throughout the course.
EDU 656 Technology Solutions for Just in Time Training & Learning
This course will allow students to develop an understanding of the planning for and application of technology for training that meets institutional and organizational needs. Students will utilize technology to effectively develop a request for proposal plan for training utilizing technology to inform, motivate, and prepare learners.
Early Childhood Education (12 credits)
ECE 601 Introduction to Early Childhood Education
This course provides an overview of the field of early childhood education including history, philosophy, advocacy, public policy, issues, trends, and careers.
ECE 611 Early Childhood Curriculum & Methods
This course focuses on curriculum development in early childhood and teaching strategies with a developmentally appropriate approach. Students will prepare curriculum and practice teaching strategies which illustrate the characteristics of play and creativity. The guidance of young children to include behavior management and creating positive learning environments will also be emphasized.
ECE 612 Administration of Early Childhood Education
This course focuses on the development and implementation of early childhood programs for a variety of age groups and purposes. Specifically, curriculum development, materials, teaching strategies, evaluation, budgets, hiring procedures and state guidelines/regulations are addressed as are the skills and competencies to implement the above.
ECE 623 Collaboration with Parents & Community
Factors that promote effective communication and collaboration with parents of babies and preschool-aged children, families and community resources are considered in this course.
Education & Public Policy (12 credits)
EDU 633 Educational Policy Formation
This course is designed to focus on theories and models of policy-making process, including pluralism, elitism, systems analysis, structuralism, and state autonomy models. The course examines how different theories view the roles of political leadership, institutions, interest groups, academics experts, and external influences in the policy-making process. The course examines how different factors influence policy outcomes and processes at various stages of the development process. The course provides students with analytical tools to understand variations in the policy-making process and the opportunity to develop their own applications.
EDU 631 Politics, Policy-Making, & Political Action in Education
This course is designed to use political knowledge to analyze and act in educational institutions. The course focuses on contemporary and historical cases to develop students' understanding, analytical skills, and capacity for effective action in the political sphere. Special attention will be directed toward student application of policy-making in understanding and analyzing a special topic of interest.
EDU 663 Assessment & Public Policy
This course provides the foundations and history of program assessment, accountability, and quality assurance to the governance, funding, and purposes of assessment and measurements. Implementation and reporting of assessment data to multiple audiences will be explored. The course will examine the roles of program evaluators in improving performance and achievement.
OMM 625 Learning Organizations & Effectiveness
This course presents the principles and elements of the learning organization and uses key principles as a framework for defining the organization's management practices and measuring its effectiveness.
Educational Technology Leadership (12 credits)
EDU 649 Technologies for Teaching & Learning
This course focuses on identifying appropriate technologies for teaching and learning. Special attention will be directed in analyzing teaching and learning styles. Identifying and evaluating technologies to meet individual needs will be explored in both educational and corporate environments.
EDU 652 Instructional Design & Delivery
This course covers various elements of the instructional design process including needs assessment, instructional problems, learner characteristics, instructional objectives, content sequencing, instructional strategies, and evaluation instruments. Students are expected to learn how to plan, develop, evaluate, and manage the design of effective instructional materials.
EDU 658 Instructional Leadership
This course focuses on leadership in the educational or corporate environment to bring about change required to meet learning and training needs. Students will evaluate their personal leadership in their professional environment. Leadership tools to provide increased learning opportunities will be used to design learning experiences and evaluate results.
EDU 677 Monitoring & Evaluating Curriculum & Instruction through Systems Thinking
The course will define and apply the concepts of differentiated instruction and systems thinking in the development of curriculum and instruction. Processes and procedures for monitoring and evaluating programs will lead to an understanding of the complexity of an effective change process for increased achievement.
English Language Learner (12 credits)
EDU 629 Linguistically & Culturally Diverse Learners
This course explores strategies and techniques to support the success of language and culturally diverse students. The values, customs, and communication styles of cultural groups and their implication for teaching are considered. Research-based instructional approaches to developing English learner literacy will be examined.
EDU 642 Understanding & Teaching English Language
In this course students will study the structure of the English language in order to better understand the difficulties that arise in learning a second language. English phonology, syntax, analysis, and application of linguistic theory will be studied.
EDU 643 Methods, Materials & Technology for Learning a Second Language
Strategies for English Language Learners in the content areas while maintaining a language development focus will be illustrated. Specific strategies, materials, technology, and learning activities will be examined to support learning.
EDU 659 Testing & Assessment for English Language Learners
Various tools and methodologies for assessing English proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing for both ELL children and adults will be critiqued. Formative and summative assessments will be explored with an emphasis on the application and appropriateness of their use for instructional design.
Family & Community Services (12 credits)
EDU 617 School, Family & Community Partnerships
Parent and community involvement is a crucial element to school success. Promoting the social, emotional and academic skills necessary for student success in the 21st century requires a team effort of collaboration with schools, families and the community. Students in this course will explore strategies and research for engaging partners in the ongoing education of children in the community.
EDU 635 Community & Youth Development
This course will support teachers and others with the development of practical strategies and tools to support community-wide efforts to strengthen and support youth today. Advocacy for youth development as well as strategies to support youth from a wide range of backgrounds will be addressed.
EDU 644 Child & Family Welfare
This course will examine public policies in place to support children and families in at-risk situations. A focus on the services and programs offered to support families and children as well as the development of protective factors in families will be offered in this course.
EDU 647 Families, Communities, & Diversity
This course will focus on establishing relationships and partnerships within families and communities of diverse cultures. Specific strategies in developing programs promoting cultural competence within families and communities will be explored. Students will analyze available family and community resources within their community in promoting and supporting cultural diversity.
Higher Education (12 credits)
EDU 657 History & Philosophy of American Higher Education
The course will provide and overview of the historical development and cultural backgrounds of higher education in America. Emphasis will be placed on the major themes and developments in American higher education including the ideologies, people, cultures, and movements that have particularly influenced those developments. Current issues and trends in higher education will be explored.
EDU 662 Curriculum & Assessment in Higher Education
The course will study the relationships between planning and student learning at course, program, and institutional levels. Modes of curriculum design, development and change in higher education will be presented. Emphasis will be placed on examining curricular leadership and assessment strategies.
EDU 653 Teaching in Higher Education
The course will examine education theories, methods, and strategies for the improvement of instruction in higher education. Emphasis will be placed on the unique challenges of teaching in a changing environment in higher education. Students will explore factors that affect adult learning and the organizational cultures that promote or inhibit learning.
EDU 654 Student Development in Higher Education
The course will examine student development theories from a socio-cultural and psychological developmental perspective. Factors affecting the teaching and learning related to the college environment will be analyzed. Theories of student development and their applications in student affair programs, services, and activities will be reviewed.
Library & Media (12 credits)
EDU 605 School Media Center
Technology has changed the ways in which information is accessed today dramatically impacting the traditional role of the school library media center. This course will review the historic role of library instruction and the changes that need to take place to prepare students with the information acquisition skills necessary today.
EDU 607 Information Literacy in the 21st Century
This course will support teachers and others in thinking critically about information and media resources prevalent today. Skills will be taught that can be readily utilized with students to teach them to be critical reviewers of all materials and reference sources.
EDU 608 Children's & Young Adult Literature
Students will explore contemporary literature for children and young adults at the early childhood, elementary, middle and high school levels. The ability to select and evaluate quality literature for children and youth, and the skills necessary to plan and integrate literature into a k-12 program will be addressed.
EDU 658 Instructional Leadership
This course focuses on leadership in the educational or corporate environment to bring about change required to meet learning and training needs. Students will evaluate their personal leadership in their professional environment. Leadership tools to provide increased learning opportunities will be used to design learning experiences and evaluate results.
Mathematics Instruction (12 credits)
EDU 603 Mathematical Thinking for Teachers
This course focuses on the thought processes involved in learning mathematical concepts as a base for student-centered mathematics instruction. Students will gain a strong theoretical perspective of how children learn mathematics and gain ideas and strategies for how to teach math.
EDU 619 Technology for Mathematics Education
Students will investigate and evaluate technology that supports user interactivity and mastery of mathematical concepts in grades Pre-K through middle school in this course. Alignment to mathematical standards and recommendations from The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) will be explored as a part of the evaluation of materials. Assessment and differentiation of instruction and student learning will also be addressed.
EDU 646 Algebra Instruction for Elementary & Middle School Teachers
Today's teachers must be prepared to teach students more than memorization of rules and procedures to solve equations. This course will prepare teachers to teach the process standards of problem solving, communication, reasoning and proof, connections and representations as outlined by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).
EDU 664 Teaching Mathematics & Science through Literature
Teachers today are being called upon to integrate the various content areas across the curriculum to allow for real-life connections and application of various skills. This course will explore research supporting curriculum integration with a specific focus on the integration of literature for teaching math and science concepts. Students will explore units of study that address content standards in math and science utilizing children's literature.
Reading Literacy (12 credits)
EDU 667 Reading Instruction & Early Intervention
Reviews of various research based reading programs will be examined critically. Evaluation will be based on cost, alignment to standards, and research in regard to program effectiveness. Intervention programs for struggling readers and their role in a traditional school setting will be explored.
EDU 668 Reading Comprehension Across the Curriculum
This course will support teachers and others in working with students to improve reading comprehension across all areas of the curriculum. Research investigations into the brain activity required for reading comprehension will be reviewed. Specific strategies for addressing reading comprehension difficulty will be explored.
EDU 608 Children's & Young Adult Literature
Students will explore contemporary literature for children and young adults at the early childhood, elementary, middle and high school levels. The ability to select and evaluate quality literature for children and youth, and the skills necessary to plan and integrate literature into a k-12 program will be addressed.
EDU 669 The Reading, Writing Connection
This course will emphasize the connection of reading and writing with a focus on the content areas. Students will be exposed to a variety of approaches including vocabulary techniques, comprehension strategies, and study techniques to use with learners. Issues of assessment, motivation, and cultural as well as linguistic diversity will also be addressed.
Special Education (12 credits)
ESE 631 Survey of the Exceptional Child
This course provides an introduction to the education of students with diverse learning abilities and styles, including children with mental retardation, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, those identified as gifted and talented, and those diagnosed as having attention deficit disorder. These and other disabilities and special abilities are explored with a focus on the identification of individual differences in development and learning, and risk factors associated with exceptionalities. Developmental variations and patterns of these exceptionalities are examined along with the educational support strategies, the effects on the family and the rights of children.
ESE 695 Characteristics of Students with Mild & Moderate Disabilities
This course provides a theoretical frame of reference within which to view challenges faced by students with mild/moderate disabilities. A functional definition of mild/moderate disabilities, possible causes, characteristics of students, typical academic deficits experienced by students and methods that have been effective in addressing the needs of students will be examined.
ESE 691 Behavior Management in the Classroom
This course provides strategies for changing inappropriate behaviors and prompting the acquisition of adaptive behaviors through positive management procedures. Designed to provide the teacher practical "how to" skills in classroom management, modification of behavior, and other management skills directed toward establishing an environment of learning.
ESE 633 Collaborative Relationships & Transition
This course emphasizes developing effective communication techniques to use with personnel in educational settings and transitions, including parents of individuals with disabilities and ancillary personnel. Emphasis will be placed on interaction with students, parents, paraprofessionals, professionals, and volunteers.
Teacher Leader (12 credits)
EDU 686 Educational Policy & Administration
This course focuses on the societal and political contexts in educational settings. Students will examine various issues that are likely to have an impact on teaching and learning in a diverse educational setting. Education policy areas considered include governance, curriculum, accountability, personnel development, and school finance.
ESE 633 Collaborative Relationships & Transition
This course emphasizes developing effective communication techniques to use with personnel in educational settings, including parents of individuals with disabilities and ancillary personnel. The development of skills necessary to serve in a consulting capacity to the regular classroom teacher working with individuals with disabilities will be covered. The special educator will take on many roles thus another purpose of this course is to examine the different roles and functions of the special educator and how this person will work with others. Emphasis will be placed on interaction with students, parents, paraprofessionals, professionals, and volunteers.
EDU 615 Leading the Change Process in Curriculum & Instruction
The course will explore the role of the change agent in the identification, planning, implementation, and assessment of change initiatives for improved achievement. The impact of change on the individual, course, program, and system level will be studied. Research-based standards for successful leadership will be identified and applied as students examine the impact of administration and management on teaching and learning.
EDU 677 Monitoring & Evaluating Curriculum & Instruction through Systems Thinking
The course will define and apply the concepts of differentiated instruction and systems thinking in the development of curriculum and instruction. Processes and procedures for monitoring and evaluating programs will lead to an understanding of the complexity of an effective change process for increased achievement.
If this program fits your personal and professional goals, contact Ashford University at 866.711.1700 to learn more, or request additional information.
Ashford University Program Disclosures
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