Master of Science in Education: Specialization in Transitional Kindergarten

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)

Teaching Transitional Kindergarten I

Candidates complete a 4 course program of study in an approved Transitional Kindergarten Certificate Program. Students complete coursework related to all aspects of Transitional Kindergarten teaching, including curriculum, children?s development in the pre-kindergarten stages, working with families, observation and assessment, as well as field experience in the Transitional Kindergarten classroom. Evidence of satisfactory completion of 4 courses from approved Transitional Kindergarten Certificate Program is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Enrollment in approved Transitional Kindergarten Certificate Program.

Teaching Transitional Kindergarten II

Candidates complete a 4 course program of study in an approved Transitional Kindergarten Certificate Program. Students complete coursework related to all aspects of Transitional Kindergarten teaching, including curriculum, children?s development in the pre-kindergarten stages, working with families, observation and assessment, as well as field experience in the Transitional Kindergarten classroom. Evidence of certificate of completion from approved Transitional Kindergarten Certificate Program is required to pass this course. Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: GRS520

School, Family, and Community Partnerships

This course will examine family, community, societal, and cultural influences on children's schooling and learning and explore ways to create partnerships to support families and children. Emphasis is on the development of strategies for integrating family members and community resources into the learning process and addressing and overcoming barriers to partnerships. (3 units)

Leadership and Supervision In Early Childhood Settings

This course will explore the early childhood administrator's role in staff development and human relations, including recruitment, hiring, retaining, training supporting and evaluation of personnel. This course will examine the importance of developing a program philosophy as well as the multi-level functions of supervision with an emphasis on understanding teacher development and reflective practice. (3 units)

Early Childhood Literacy and Language Development

This course will review significant research and theory regarding language acquisition and literacy skills in the early childhood period. Current instructional and assessment strategies for early literacy and language development in young children, including the bilingual child, will be explored. Techniques for involving and educating families will be investigated. (3 units)

Advanced Studies in Early Childhood Development

This course reviews theory and critical research relating to prenatal development through age eight. Classic theory and current literature concerning development in physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional domains will be examined. Students will analyze connections between critical theories, research, and best practices in early childhood programs. (3 units)

Early Childhood Program Development and Evaluation

The course will examine the process of program development, evaluation, and improvement in the early childhood setting with a focus on industry standards and best practice. Students will be introduced to measurement tools such as the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS), NAEYC Accreditation criteria, and the Program Administrators Scale (PAS). Students will utilize common assessments to develop action plans, and integrate their knowledge and understanding of program development and evaluation by creating a proposal for an early childhood program. (3 units)