M.Ed. Program Objectives

The Master of Education in Secondary Education program is designed for a dynamic environment, both on class and out. The program integrates theory and practice, and upon completition the teacher candidate will:

Demonstrate knowledge of his or her content area and the ability to plan and deliver developmentally appropriate instruction for diverse learners.

Understand how children learn and develop and provide learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social, and personal development.
Understand how students differ in their approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.
Use knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and technological communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom.
Understand the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students.
Understand and use a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students' development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills.

Demonstrate appropriate planning and assessment strategies, reflect on the effectiveness of instruction, and make the necessary adjustments to meet learner needs.

Use an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a collaborative learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
Use knowledge of the subject matter, learner needs, principles of effective teaching and learning, assessment strategies, and curricular goals to plan and implement student-centered learning experiences.
Use formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate individual progress toward achieving performance standards and modify instructional approaches accordingly.

Demonstrate a commitment to the education profession by engaging in and supporting appropriate professional practices.

Actively seek out opportunities to grow professionally by participating in professional development activities, providing service to the teaching profession and the community, and engaging in collaborative inquiry with colleagues and other professionals.
Engage reflective practices by continually evaluating the effects of his or her choices and actions on others (students, parents, and other professionals in the learning community).
Embody professional and ethical behavior.
Stay abreast of current issues and trends in education and in the discipline and apply knowledge of social, historical, and philosophical foundations of education.

Collaborate with colleagues, families, and community members in school renewal.

Establish respectful and productive relationships with parents and guardians from diverse homes and communities and seek to develop cooperative partnerships in support of students' learning and well being.
Develop effective strategies to engage families and communities in school activities.
Communicate effectively with parents.
Use community resources to enhance student learning.