Master of Arts in Education

Transcription

1 Master of Arts in Education Special Education Mild/Moderate Disability (Grades K-12) Add-on Certification Janis Freeman, EdD 2014 Handbook Lindenwood University

2 Table of Contents Table of Contents Welcome to Lindenwood University School of Education!... 2 Overview of the Program... 4 Admission... 5 Program Planning and Completion... 7 Course Descriptions Student Learning Outcomes and Assessments... 1 Field Experience/Internship/Practicum Frequently Asked Questions Appendix

3 Welcome Welcome Welcome to Lindenwood University School of Education! Welcome! Lindenwood University is a thriving institution with a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs with locations across Missouri and Illinois, in addition to online offerings. The School of Education is one of the largest schools at this institution and in the state of Missouri. However, here at Lindenwood, we pride ourselves on our student-centered approach, advising by actual faculty members, and our open door policy so you never feel like a number. The faculty not only has the appropriate academic credentials, but also extensive experience in a wide variety of schools as teachers, counselors, principals, librarians, and leaders at all levels. The faculty is truly vested in providing the best opportunity for all students to succeed. Lindenwood University prides itself in providing a support network for students who need extra assistance in attaining their goals. Lindenwood provides assistance to students through the Student and Academic Support Services (SASS). SASS supports the Lindenwood University student community through academic engagement, problem resolution, service learning opportunities, and provision of resources. We are committed to a studentcentered environment reinforcing retention and persistence to graduation by encouraging academic and individual development, along with social responsibility. Do you already have a master s degree but still want an additional certification? That is also an option at Lindenwood University. The Master of Arts in Education programs offer opportunities for teachers and professionals to improve their practice in many different areas of study including: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Library Media Special Reading K-12 Gifted Education Certification Special Education K-12 Character Education Autism Spectrum Disorders K-12 2

4 Early Interventions in Autism and Sensory Impairments Educational Technology Mathematics Education Specialist 1-6 School Administration

5 Program Overview Program Overview The Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in special education K- 12 provides professional education courses required for the special education mild/moderate disabled (K- 12) (add- on) teaching certification in Missouri. This program design reflects the philosophy of IDEA (Individual Disability Education Act) with an emphasis on educating the whole child through inclusive practices and effective collaboration. Additionally, program evaluation and assessment is based on the subject specific competencies for Special Education set forth by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Through the years, the Education Division has continued to integrate the core education goals with the special education program. The program is designed to prepare both regular education teachers and special education teachers to work collaboratively to design and implement effective educational programs for all students. This requirement provides teachers seeking to add-on certification in special education a comprehensive understanding of the student s entire educational delivery system. Embedded within the program are opportunities for clinical experiences. Students who hold Missouri teacher certification will receive their clinical experience through practicum requirements. Upon completion of all the required courses, students will need to take and pass the required Special Education Missouri the Content Specialty and Pedagogy Assessments to be considered a highly qualified teacher in the state of Missouri. Students who current possess teacher certification are encouraged to contact DESE and request a transcript evaluation in the area of special education K 12. DESE will then identify the remaining required courses. This information will then be used for program planning. For more information on this program you can contact one of the advisors listed below: Dr. Janis Freeman Jfreeman@lindenwood.edu Roemer 05 Special Education Advisors for Undergraduate Secondary and Graduate Students Dr. Lynda Leavitt Dr. Jill Hutcheson Lleavitt@lindenwood.edu Jhutchenson@lindenwood.edu Roemer 211 Roemer 00 4

6 Program Admission Program Admission Admission Standards Lindenwood University consciously seeks a diverse student body and welcomes applicants from all socioeconomic, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. The University also values geographic diversity and welcomes international students. Admission to graduate programs is granted to students who demonstrate academic preparedness and the potential for academic excellence. Applications for admission to Lindenwood University graduate programs will reviewed by the Director of Evening Admissions and Dr. Janis Freeman. Application Procedures Apply by visiting the Office of Evening and Graduate Admissions at the Lindenwood University Welcome Center on the St. Charles campus, any of the extension centers, or online at the following address: To be considered for admission to the University, an applicant s file must include each of the following documents: Electronic or paper application, along with a non-refundable $0 application fee. Current resume. An official undergraduate transcript as well as official transcript(s) from any graduate school(s) attended if transfer credit is desired. A copy of applicant s valid teaching certificate. Model I Certification Area: Special Education This program provides add-on certification after initial certification has been earned. It is an advanced program for educators who have had experience in either elementary or secondary schools. A student may complete coursework required to be recommended and/or apply for Missouri DESE teacher certification in Special Education. In Model I, elective courses are selected from courses required for specialized certification. The program is designed to enable the educator to extend his/her knowledge, skills, and understanding of the process of teaching and learning. 5

7 Program Admission Model I allows the graduate student, in accord with a faculty advisor, to design a portion of the program according to individual needs and career goals. Students admitted to Model I must hold a valid teaching certificate and be presently involved in an educational setting or have worked within one in the last three years. The program includes the four core courses required of all graduate students in Education. The remaining credit hours will be selected by the student in consultation with the advisor from existing graduate courses to meet state certification standards for application to the selected program. 6

8 Program Planning Program Planning and Completion Teaching and Leading as an Art and a Science Lindenwood University School of Education Program Planning Worksheet MASTER OF ARTS in EDUCATION MODEL I CERTIFICATION AREA: Special Education Certificate K-12 (Only valid with an Elementary or Secondary Education Degree (BA) from Lindenwood University) Name Date Advised Advisor Signature To complete the Master of Arts in Education Program all students must: 1. Possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of.0 on a 4.0 scale. 2. Complete application procedures for admission to the university, pay required fees, and be approved by the Dean.. Applicants must hold a valid teaching certificate. 4. Complete semester hours of graduate course work required to earn the Master of Arts in Education. 5. Maintain a GPA of.0 or higher. 6. Education of the Exceptional Child is a prerequisite. 7. Select the Master of Arts Project (EDU 60000) OR Curriculum Analysis and Design (EDU 52000) to fulfill final degree requirements. 8. Complete the degree requirements within five calendar years from the first day of the first term in which program commenced. 9. Continue to register for the thesis/master of Arts Project each subsequent term until completed. Failure to continue to register will result in termination from the candidacy for the degree. 10. Graduation application submitted by application deadline! Degree will be posted on the graduation month that you select. If the month of graduation changes, you must resubmit a graduation application in order for the degree to be posted in the newly selected month. 11. Student Teaching hours cannot apply to this master s degree. Additionally: 1. The following advising sheet is based upon attainment of BA in secondary certification from Lindenwood and may differ if you received your certificate from another university. 2. The Special Education K-12 certificate is awarded from DESE, not Lindenwood. This advising sheet should be considered a guideline only. Plan your program by following the list of deficiencies from your DESE file evaluation. Deficiencies may be different depending upon the university you attended. When DESE deficiency coursework is completed, you are responsible for sending in your complete transcript to DESE for them to award you the certificate.. Core classes required for every MA student. When you complete 21 hours of electives and the 4 core classes, you are eligible for your MA in Ed degree. DESE may require you to take more than 21 hours of coursework just for the Special Education certificate. 4. Currently, DESE is awarding SPED add-on certificated (you must already hold a valid MO Elementary or Secondary Certificate) for those passing PRAXIS II in Missouri. The PRAXIS II 7

9 Program Planning required in Missouri for SPED in Cross Categorical are the Child Exceptionalities Core Knowledge 205 and Mild to Moderate The PRAXIS tests are not necessary if the students complete all of the coursework. * Transfer and Workshop Credit: No more than 9 semester hours from other accredited institutions approved by the Dean and Registrar. All transfer credits must carry a letter grade of B or higher from official transcript. No Pass/Fail or Credit courses accepted. All transfer credit must be relevant to proposed program and completed within last 7 years. Once admitted, prior permission from Dean and Registrar must be obtained to apply credit from other college or university towards degree. Up to 6 credit hours may be accepted from approved workshops. Core Courses Hour Semester Completed EDU Analysis of Teaching & Learning EDU Conceptualization of Education EDU Educational Research Transferred* Grade Notes EDU Curriculum Analysis and Design or EDU Master of Arts Project Certification/Emphasis Specialty 1 Special Education Add On Certificate EDS 5000 Intro/Methods Tch Chd w/ Dis CC Hour Sem. Offered (usually) Semester Completed Transfer* Grade Notes 4 F/SP All courses below have PreReq of EDU 4100/54100 EDU Assessment of Intellectual Skills EDU50200* Psychology of Teaching & Learn F/SU Only for students who have not had a Child Psychology or Human 8

10 Program Planning EDS Behavior Management EDU 5000 Elementary Reading Methods EDU Analysis & Corr of Rdg Dis EDU Analysis & Corr of Rdg Dis Pract. EDS 500 Speech & Lang of the Ex Child EDS 5700 Special Ed. Counseling **EDU 12/512 Methods of Teaching Math prereq for EDS 557 EDS Remed in Elementary Math* EDS Career Development EDS Cross Categorical Practicum EDU EDU Special Ed Pract. F/SP Growth and Development course, which is the study of the individual birth through adolescence ( not birth through death). F/SP Pre Req for EDU 50900/52200 F/SP/SU EDU should be 2 F/SP/SU SP F/SP taken concurrently with EDU F/SP/SU *PreReq is Methods of Teaching Math (EDU 1200/51200) F/SP F/SP F/SP Students with 2 years of SPED experience are required to only take a hour practicum Updated

11 Course Descriptions Course Descriptions and Recommended Sequence EDS 5000 Introduction and Methods of Teaching Children with Disabilities in Cross- Categorical Settings: This course is designed for special education teachers who already have certification in behavior disorders, mental retardation, or learning disabilities and want to add on cross-categorical certification or regular education teachers who are considering adding special education certification. This course allows the student to examine the theories, classification system, characteristics, historical data, and related resources affecting students placed in crosscategorical settings. Methods and materials needed in teaching learners with special needs in general and special education programs are studied. Both commercial and teacher developed materials are examined. EDU Assessment of Intellectual Skills: This course teaches students about the use of non-projective, educationally relevant tests, including theories of measurement, test construction, test administration, and ethical use. Students will attain competence in administration of one of the more commonly used methods of assessment, either Binet or Wechsler. EDS Behavior Management: This course is designed to increase student s knowledge and repertoire of ethical effective and efficient behavioral management techniques and programs that can be used with children and youth in general and special education, home, and community settings. Conceptual models have made and continue to make significant contributions to our knowledge and learning and behavior are reviewed and analyzed through an integrative framework. Observation and application of behavior management strategies are part of this course. EDU 5000 Elementary Reading Methods: In this course, the student will participate in a comprehensive study of the skills required for reading development, such as word attack, perception, vocabulary, and comprehension. A variety of reading methodologies, materials, and evaluation items are presented and used with readers in the school system. EDU Analysis and Correction of Reading Disabilities: This course is designed to teach the diagnostic/prescriptive process necessary to deal with readers at various levels in the classroom. Students learn to use and analyze a variety of informal and standardized diagnostic reading tests appropriate for individual and group diagnosis. Students also learn to use commercial and teacher-made materials in conjunction with basal readers to provide appropriate instruction. Students are expected to work with a problem reader during the course. This course is to be taken concurrently with EDU for students working towards early childhood, early childhood special education, and elementary education certification. 10

12 Course Descriptions EDU Practicum: Diagnosis of Reading Difficulties: This practicum course was designed for MAT students who are working on their initial teaching certificate. This course provides the student with clinical experiences in the use of various diagnostic instruments and procedure for identifying types of reading difficulties. The student will complete his/her practicum in an after school tutoring or summer reading camp programs taught and supervised by a Lindenwood professor and will be required to either have previously taken or be enrolled in the same semester with EDU Analysis and Correction of Reading Difficulties. The student will be expected to administer, score, and interpret basic tests and to write case study reports. Note: only one practicum course may be taken in a semester. EDS 500 Speech and Language Development for the Exceptional Learner: This course is designed to increase the student s knowledge of the characteristics of human language and how much knowledge facilitates a clearer understanding of the young special education learner. Theoretical schemes of language acquisition, the child s stages in acquisition of morphology and syntax, sound, and semantics are an integral part of the course. EDS 5700 Special Education Counseling: This course combines the traditional psychology of counseling in all its variety with special consideration of the problems experienced by exceptional children, their families, and their teachers. EDS Remediation in Elementary Math: This course focuses on 1) the teacher s knowledge of mathematical principles and remedial techniques fundamental to arithmetic and the psychological aspects of arithmetic learning; 2) the teacher s competency in the use of concrete materials embodying mathematical principles and structure; and ) the teacher s sensitivity and willingness to adapt instruction to experiential needs of students. Graduate students are expected to examine research literature. Prerequisite: EDU 12/512 EDS Career Development: This course emphasizes current theories and vocational development. Interest testing and aptitude testing significantly related to vocational development and their application to occupational training are included. Graduate students are required to do in depth research and/or project development in vocational training. EDU Psychology of Teaching and Learning: This course encourages students to examine current areas of interest in the study of learning theories and application of those theories to education. Concepts, methods, and issues of research in developmental and educational psychology are also investigated. Prerequisite Courses EDU 4100 or Education of the Exceptional Child Special Education K-12 Curriculum 11

13 Course Descriptions EDS 5000 Intro & Methods of Teaching Children with 4 Disabilities in Cross Categorical Settings EDU Assessment of Intellectual Skills EDS Behavior Management EDU 5000 Elementary Reading Methods EDU EDU EDS 500 EDS 5700 EDS EDS EDU 50200* EDU EDU ** Analysis and Correction of Reading Disabilities Practicum: Diagnosis of Reading Difficulties Speech and Language Development for the Exceptional Learner Special Education Counseling Remediation in Elementary Math Career Development Psychology of Teaching and Learning Cross Categorical Practicum Special Education Practicum 2 Note: *Required only for students who have not had a Child Psychology or Human Growth and Development course, which is the study of the individual birth through adolescence (not birth through death). ** Students should only enroll in one practicum per semester. 12

14 SLOs Student Learning Outcomes and Assessments The Special Education Program goals are as follows: 1. The student will consider personal philosophy; special education philosophy as outlined by IDEA, and an understanding of student learning needs to nurture and develop each student s educational philosophy throughout all parts of the program. 2. The student will develop an understanding of the laws, policies, and procedures that frame the educational special education delivery system within the school.. Each student will further their understanding of the special education delivery system within the regular education and special education setting to facilitate student programming and inclusive practices. 4. Each student will demonstrate a thorough knowledge in childhood development and individual learning styles. 5. Each student will develop and understanding of the individual needs and cognitive processing of students with various disabilities. 6. Students will demonstrate an ability to plan and implement effective educational programs that build on a student s strengths. 7. Each student will develop an understanding and appreciation of effective teaching practices to meet the needs of students with special needs. 8. The student will demonstrate proficiency in the use of methods of planning, teaching, and evaluating special education instruction. 9. Students will build upon personal mastery of the skills obtained in the special education program to become an effective practicing educator. 1

15 Field Experience Field Experience/Internship/Practicum Embedded within the program are opportunities for clinical experiences. Students who hold Missouri teacher certification will receive their clinical experience through practicum requirements. Master of Arts in Education students who wish to earn the emphasis in Special Education, and who also have earned an initial teacher certificate may fulfill the practicum requirement through EDS Practicum: Cross Categorical and EDS Practicum: Cross Categorical. Students in the Master of Arts in Education with two years of special education experience, who wish to add-on the special education certification may only be required to complete three credit hours of special education practicum coursework. Students are encouraged to contact DESE prior to program planning and request a transcript evaluation in the area of special education K 12. DESE will then identify the remaining required courses including practicum requirements. This information will then be used for program planning. 14

16 FAQs Frequently Asked Questions 1. Where do I find the application of admission to the master s degree program? 2. How do I get an advisor? After you have completed the application process, please contact the education office at (66) or the Assistant Dean at (66) to be assigned to an advisor.. Where will I park and do I need a parking sticker? There are several parking lots on campus along with on street parking. It is wise to get a parking sticker. The cost is minimal. See the web address below for more information How much will tuition cost? Current educators receive an educator grant deduction of $60.00 per credit hour. Just make sure that the admissions advisor designates you as an educator. The cost of tuition varies by year so it is best to check with the business office or on the Lindenwood website for the latest tuition fees. 5. Who will evaluate my transcript? DESE will evaluate your transcript and indicate which classes you will need to be certified. You will need to apply to add the certification by completing the DESE form located on the DESE website. Additionally you will need to request a transcript from Lindenwood University. You should furnish Academic Services with a copy of your form so that they can send it directly to DESE. 6. How is the job market and do districts only hire from within? Districts look for the most qualified candidates to hire. No one can predict that there will always be job openings but you can rest assured that literacy will always be at the forefront of the educational system. 15

17 FAQs 7. Can I get a provisional certificate? DESE will indicate on your evaluation whether or not you are eligible for a provisional certificate. 8. How long will it take for me to complete the program? A student can usually complete the degree program in two years. This will vary with the number of classes taken per semester. Those students seeking certification only will complete the certification classes much faster depending on how many classes they need according to the DESE evaluation. 9. What do I have access to as a student? As a student at Lindenwood University you have access to many amenities such as a Fitness center, Butler Library with printing capabilities, computer labs on Lindenwood University s campus and at extension centers, a writing center, online tutoring services that are available 24 hours a day, a Lionmail account, career development, the Student Counseling and Resource Center, and more. Students who are campus residents have access to the Student Health Center in the Spellmann Center. Fitness Center is open to students only. You must present your I.D. upon arrival. The hours of operation are: Monday Friday 6 a.m. 1 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. 1 a.m. Writing Center is located in the lower level of the library. You can receive help with the writing process of your research assignments. For more information: (66) Butler Library allows you to have access to Mobius, Worldcat, E books, audiobooks, writing center, wireless services, and laptops. For library hours, staff, reference services, and other information, go to Career Development assists undergraduates and graduate students with searching and applying for jobs and interviewing. The career center has plenty of written handouts that will assist students with preparation for an interview and career searches. For more information, please contact Dana Wehrli, Director of Career Development, at (66) or Brandi Goforth, Assistant Director of Career Development, at (66)

18 FAQs FAQs 10. What kind of housing is available to undergrad and grad students? There are graduate housing opportunities located minutes from the campus. Lindenwood University owns an apartment community and several homes in a nearby neighborhood. For further inquiries please call: Michelle Giessman at (66) , located on the third floor of Spellmann Center. 11. What are the main buildings on campus, where are they, and what schools are housed or what subjects do they house, typically. On the Heritage campus: Roemer - located inside Roemer are the following offices: accounting Business Office student refunds payroll/human resources accounts payable LCIE/GRAD business offices the executive offices In the lower level of Roemer are Financial Aid and Academic Services Academic Services has the following services: Academic Appeal Letter Requirements AP Exam Credits - LU Transfer Equivalencies Application for Degree Degree Verification National Student Clearinghouse 1454 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 00 Herndon, VA degreeverify@studentclearinghouse.org Phone: (70) Fax: (70)

19 Diploma Reprint Request Enrollment Verifications and Loan Deferments Petition for Policy Exemption Request for VA Certification Transcript Requests Transfer student evaluations Academic Services can be reached at: (66) How do students apply to be a graduate assistant? Any student interested in becoming a graduate assistant should contact Samantha Shadrach (66)

20 Appendix Appendix Table 1a. SLO Components Alignment with MA Programs Courses SLO 1: Content knowledge, including varied perspectives, aligned with appropriate instruction 2: Understanding and encouraging student, learning growth and development : Implementing the curriculum 4: Teaching for critical thinking 5: Creating a positive classroom environment for learning 6: Utilizing effective communication 7: Use of student assessment data to analyze and modify instruction 8: Professional practice 9: Professional collaboration 10: Reflection on research and theory EDS 5000 EDU EDS EDU 5000 EDU EDU EDS

21 Appendix Table 1b. SLO Components Alignment with MA Programs Courses Continued SLO EDS 5700 EDS EDS EDU EDU EDU EDU : Content knowledge, including varied perspectives, aligned with appropriate instruction 2: Understanding and encouraging student, learning growth and development : Implementing the curriculum 4: Teaching for critical thinking 5: Creating a positive classroom environment for learning 6: Utilizing effective communication 20

22 7: Use of student assessment data to analyze and modify Appendix instruction 8: Professional practice 9: Professional collaboration 10: Reflection on research and theory Table 2. Semesters Courses are Generally Offered but subject to certified staff availability Special Education K- 12 Fall 2014 Spring 2015 Summer 2015 Fall 2015 Spring 2016 EDS 5000 x x x x EDU x x x x EDS x x x x EDU 5000 x x x x EDU x x x x x x EDU x x x x x x EDS 500 x x EDS 5700 x x x x EDS x x x x x x EDS x x x x EDU x x x x EDS x x x x EDU x x x x Summer