Academically Rigorous Curriculum
Coursework is divided into four broad categories that provide students with theoretical foundations, teaching strategies and the practical experiences necessary to make a difference in English language classrooms.
| Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Foundations | Provide in-depth knowledge in linguistic, sociological and psychological theories and their application in the language classroom. Foundations classes also introduce students to the latest strategies for infusing technology into instruction. |
| Teaching Methods | Lay the foundation for providing language instruction to linguistically and ethnically diverse students in urban schools around the world. Courses introduce students to planning, implementing, and assessing instruction across all content areas. |
| Language and Literacy | Ground students in the theories of language and literacy for both primary and second language learners and the application of these concepts across a range of education settings both nationally and globally. |
| Field Experience and Capstone Portfolio | Anchor learning in concrete field-based experiences throughout the entire program. Students observe and practice the applications of theories and instructional methods in the classroom of host teachers from the very first term. To demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout the program, students complete in their final two terms either the teaching practicum (beginning teachers) or a capstone project (experienced teachers). |
Program Length
The program is comprised of a minimum of 30 units. The program can be completed in 15 to 20 months (over the course of 4 15-week terms) on a full-time basis or up to three years on a part-time basis.
Capstone Or Practicum Experience
During the final two terms, you will complete a culminating experience to demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout the program. If you are an experienced teacher, you will complete the “capstone,” an action-research project that challenges you to examine an area of your teaching capabilities that you would like to improve. Individually guided by faculty members you will spend time reviewing existing academic research in those areas and planning how to put your new learnings into practice. You will then implement these changes in your own classroom. Novice and pre-service teachers will complete a “practicum” that involves teaching observations and practice teaching in an actual classroom under a guiding teacher. For both the capstone and practicum, you will record your performance with a digital video camera and upload your experiences for evaluation by your instructors and peers as part of the final review process.
Click here to learn more about the program or to speak with an Admissions Counselor call 1.888.628.1872.
