Differentiated Instruction provides teachers and administrators keys to unlock the potential in each and every student. Learn how to create standards-based curriculum, design differentiated lessons, assess for maximum results, use high impact strategies for struggling learners, and to integrate technology into curricula development. This CAGS opportunity is aligned to the Curriculum and Teaching Specialization.

CT5007 — The Classroom: Managing and Organizing for Student Achievement

This course provides Learners working in professional settings opportunities to investigate, synthesize, and apply research-based best practices in classroom management and organization to maximize student achievement. Learners will analyze major philosophical positions and theoretical models and their influences on classroom management practices. Learners will integrate principles of curriculum development and models of instruction, management, and discipline to effect optimum student learning. Emphasis is placed on establishing a classroom management plan that is proactive in nature, effective in controlling student behavior, useful in a variety of contexts, adaptable to diverse student populations, and easily integrated into daily teaching practices.

CT5006 — Multiple Intelligences and Ways of Learning

The purpose of this course is to examine the theoretical framework and practical applications of the theory of multiple intelligences, developed by Dr. Howard Gardner. Learners will explore the characteristics of each intelligence area with emphasis on understanding both the Learner’s own particular multiple intelligences profile and how it impacts teaching style, as well as students’ ways of learning as determined by their unique combinations of multiple intelligences. Learners will explore ways to incorporate the intelligences into the development of curriculum and into the daily classroom environment. Emphasis is placed on the Learner gaining a clear understanding of the theory of multiple intelligences and its value in curriculum development and delivery as well as gaining practical tools to positively impact the learning and lives of their students.

IL5000 — Instructional Leader as Creator of Learning Culture

Being an instructional leader essentially means being the leader of leaders; to create a culture of learning means mastering the art and science of effective leadership. The contemporary role and responsibility of the instructional leader demands a style of leadership that focuses on teacher development that promotes and enhances student learning. Successful instructional leaders encourage and inspire their faculty and staff to create a learning culture wherein effective teaching practices are embedded. In this course, Learners explore the knowledge, skill sets and behaviors that enable instructional leaders to establish and sustain these professional learning cultures. Learners pursuing IL as a specialization are required to take this as their first specialization course. Furthermore, in this course, education practitioners who may or may not have any practical experiences in K-12 education will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base per curriculum and its function(s) in educational settings. Learners pursuing a specialization in IL will take this as their first course.

ED5029 — Measurement and Assessment in Education

This course is designed to facilitate graduate students in acquiring the fundamental concepts, principles, theories, and techniques of educational measurement and classroom assessment. The underlying premise for the value of such knowledge for educators is that it is necessary for sound educational decision-making. Moreover, graduate students will acquire competence in the planning and development of informal classroom assessments and the evaluation of standardized tests.

ED5036 — Innovation and Change

To be an effective leader demands an understanding of the basic principles and practices underlying innovation and change processes in organizations. Learners will explore various change theories, and best practices for successful implementation in the workplace. Issues of visioning, coalition building, creating and promoting change agenda, and building capacity for change are examined by the Learners. Opportunity to investigate one’s personal reaction and response to change is highlighted.

LTM5005 — The Connected Classroom: Curriculum Development and Technology

This course examines the role of technology in the curriculum and its impact on school change. Research on the design of computer aided instruction and computer utilization whether it is in the corporate training environment, and/or the K-12 or post-secondary classroom will be explored. Methods of educational software evaluation, selection, and acquisition are introduced. Students will apply the modern technologies and principles of curriculum development in producing programs of instruction.