Master of Science in Education: Specialization in Special Education

Leadership, Worldviews, and Contemporary Issues

Students will evaluate a range of contemporary issues related to education from different leadership and worldview perspectives and develop a worldview and leadership philosophy. Students are equipped with a foundational understanding of worldviews and leadership so as to be informed catalysts for change in education environments. (3 units)

Theories of Learning and Teaching

Examination of principles of teaching that can be derived from psychological theories and research, including behavioral, cognitive, and social theories. (3 units)

Curriculum Theory and Development

This course is an overview of curriculum from the societal level to the classroom level and the experiences of the learner. Provides opportunity to explore development of the school curricula, K-12; to examine philosophical bases for curriculum development; and to investigate procedures for organizing the curriculum for effective learning. (3 units)

Survey of Educational Research

An introduction to research methods in education. Provides opportunity to develop skill in interpreting research literature; to become acquainted with sources of research literature; to develop an understanding of the methodology of educational research; and to become a critical reader of research reports. An emphasis on the teacher as researcher will provide a basis for assignments. (3 units)

International and Comparative Education

This course examines K-12 educational systems in the global society. Students will compare schooling in various societies and examine the history of their respective educational systems and how the systems were organized to meet the political, social and economic agenda of the 21st century. By examining different approaches to common problems, students will have a broad foundation upon which they can analyze and evaluate different strategies for problem solving educational issues. Students will develop their personal worldview of international education based on a Judeo-Christian worldview. (3 units)

Induction and Reflective Coaching and Teaching in Special Education I

Candidates complete supervised field study of first year of approved Teaching Induction Program in special education, practicum and directed teaching with students. They complete advanced field-based experiences of research, and application of learning/teaching principles with students in an approved special education classroom setting as well as supervised teaching experiences that are assigned as appropriate. Evidence of satisfactory completion of first year induction program requirements in special education is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Enrollment in Commission approved teacher induction program in special education.

Induction and Reflective Coaching and Teaching in Special Education II

Candidates complete supervised field study requirements for the second year in approved Teaching Induction Program in special education, and practicum and directed teaching with students. They also complete advanced field-based experiences of research, and application of learning/teaching principles with students in an approved special education classroom setting. Evidence of eligibility to apply for the Clear Credential is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Enrollment in second year of Commission approved teacher induction program in special education.

Internship and Reflective Coaching and Teaching in Special Education I

Candidates complete supervised field study of first year of approved Teaching Intern Program in special education, practicum and directed teaching with students. They complete advanced field-based experiences of research, and application of learning/teaching principles with students in an approved special education classroom setting as well as supervised teaching experiences that are assigned as appropriate. Evidence of satisfactory completion of first year intern program requirements in special education is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Enrollment in Commission approved teacher intern program in special education. (6 units)

Courses will be available in a future semester.

Internship and Reflective Coaching and Teaching in Special Education II

Candidates complete supervised field study of second year of approved Teaching Intern Program in special education, practicum and directed teaching with students. They complete advanced field-based experiences of research, and application of learning/teaching principles with students in an approved special education classroom setting as well as supervised teaching experiences that are assigned as appropriate. Evidence of satisfactory completion of second year intern program requirements in special education is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Enrollment in second year of Commission approved teacher intern program in special education. (6 units)

Courses will be available in a future semester.

Critical Issues in Special Education

This course engages education leaders in an in-depth analysis of controversial issues in special and general education. It encourages active debate in three broad areas: 1) special education and society, social policy, and practice; 2) inclusion, philosophies, and epistemologies; and 3) issues about exceptionality and critical considerations about specific issues in the field. (3 units)