Curriculum and Instruction: Elementary School Science and Mathematics Concentration
The purpose of this 36-credit hour program is to provide teachers with cutting-edge, innovative and research- supported elementary science and mathematics methods and topics. Emphasis is placed upon the understanding, development and application of constructivist, elementary Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics (STEM) curricula, materials, methods and activities that are applicable within the elementary classroom. This program does not lead to initial teaching certification. Program completion may include STEM certification.
Professional Education Core Courses
| EDUC 502 | Technology for Teaching, Learning & Leadership | 3.0 |
| EDUC 577 | Introduction to Educational Research | 3.0 |
| EDUC 581 | Research-Based Teaching, Learning & Assessment | 3.0 |
| EDUC 582 | Educational Philosophy in a Diverse Society | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12.0 |
Foundation Courses (12 credits):
In addition to the four professional education core courses for the M.S. degree, the candidate must complete four elementary school science and mathematics foundation courses (12 credits):
| EDUC 540 | Modern Science Methods | 3.0 |
| EDUC 545 | Modern Mathematics Methods | 3.0 |
| EDUC 576 | Curriculum & Methods in Inclusive Classrooms: Math and Science | 3.0 |
| EDUC 583 | Principles of Curriculum Development & Appraisal | 3.0 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12.0 |
Content Electives (9 credits):
In addition to the professional education and foundation courses, the candidate must select three courses from different content and topic areas, either from the science or mathematics disciplines with the approval of the adviser, or from the following education courses (9 credits).
| EDUC 500 | Methods for Teaching English Language Learners | 3.0 |
| EDUC 530 | K-12 Blended Learning | 3.0 |
| EDUC 539 | National Board Certification Support | 3.0 |
| EDUC 542 | Topics in Elementary Physical & Earth Science | 3.0 |
| EDUC 544 | Topics in Elementary Life Science | 3.0 |
| EDUC 546 | The Teaching of Numbers,Operations & Algebraic Thinking in Elementary & Middle School | 3.0 |
| EDUC 547 | The Teaching of Geometry & Measurement in Elementary & Middle School | 3.0 |
| EDUC 553 | Foundations of Elementary STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) Education | 3.0 |
Capstone Course (3 credits):
Candidates enrolled in the M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction degree program in the capstone course must successfully meet the following requirements:
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Maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in the capstone course: EDUC 597 Action Research.
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Complete acceptable performance activities as part of the collaborative practice component in EDUC 597.
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Successful evaluation of a yearlong action research project.
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Complete the Exit Survey, a self-assessment measure on the Institutional Outcomes.
The
EDUC 597 Capstone project is year-long. Students enroll for all 3 credits in the Fall semester and then continue as "In Progress" (IP) for the Spring semester. Withdrawals from this course must be submitted by the course withdrawal deadline during the Fall semester as outlined in the Academic Calendar. Late course withdrawals may be considered through appeal to the Graduate Council as outlined in the
Exceptions to Academic Policies section.
Program Follow Up
Program completers in the Curriculum and Instruction program will complete the following activities:
- Program Evaluation Survey at the completion of the action research course.
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Program Survey one year after program completion.