Technology has taken student learning far beyond the four walls of the classroom, and today’s digital learners think and process information differently than previous generations. Because technology has changed how students learn, it has also changed how teachers need to teach and communicate with students. Simply applying yesterday’s instructional platform will cause students to “power down” in the classroom.
American College of Education helps educators use technology to captivate students' interest and build on their curiosity, regardless of the subject. Through the research-based Concentration in Digital Learning and Teaching, educators will gain new ways of thinking about technology, student learning, classroom structure, and teacher and student roles.
The four-course sequence helps educators:
The concentration courses may be taken in conjunction with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction or individually for graduate credit.
The Digital Learning and Teaching courses may be taken as a three-course concentration or individually for graduate credit.
This course examines the impact of technology on learning as well as how today's student navigates a media-rich world. Topics include the human-computer interface, technology and the brain, diffusion of innovations, and connectivity through social media. The course considers trends and issues in educational technologies as well as research into the effects of technology on society.
This course uses a project-based approach in studying technology in education, best practices for classroom teachers, and strategies for professional development in light of emerging technologies. The course addresses 21st century standards for education, educators’ digital presence, cloud computing, and digital ethics.
This course draws from multiple disciplines to explore design and strategies for computer- and web-based learning. Special attention is paid to collaborative learning, interactivity, assessment, and best use of technology tools.
This course addresses development of instructional and learning materials utilizing computer- and web-based technology. In this applications course, students survey and utilize technology tools for design and creation of learning objects with focus on cost effectiveness, intellectual property, and evaluation techniques.
When the Concentration in Digital Learning and Teaching is taken in conjunction with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, the following courses round out the degree program.
Through classroom application of course content, this course provides students with substantial practical experience as they master and implement preventive and positive classroom management strategies. In addition, students acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge about the relationships between school-wide systems and behavioral development, learning and achievement among students with diverse needs. View Course Intro Video
This course develops competencies in utilizing formative and summative assessment practices and data to inform and guide curriculum development and instruction. Classroom and school-based assessment tools provide teachers with the knowledge and skills required to meet the needs of diverse learners. Embracing assessment is the first step towards "data-based" decision-making in education. View Course Intro Video
This course enables students to become informed consumers of educational research and to develop skills that prepare them to carry out action research in their schools and classrooms. An emphasis is placed on providing students with knowledge that they can apply in determining whether particular research findings are relevant to their leadership and instructional practices and to distinguish between trustworthy and non-trustworthy research. Throughout the course, students identify the elements that scientifically-based research and action research share. Emphasis is placed on how research can become a vital and relevant tool for teachers and school leaders. View Course Intro Video
This course prepares students to implement a school-wide leadership initiative to improve a comprehensive range of literacy skills. Specific principles and theories of reading instruction are evaluated in relation to currently employed practice so teachers can immediately strengthen instruction. Students examine the scientific research base underlying different models of reading instruction. Special attention is given to curriculum mapping, alignment, and the development of an implementation plan to strengthen literacy. View Course Intro Video
This course explores the critical roles teachers play in decision-making through the perspective of multiple stakeholders. Learners engage in leadership interactions to develop problem-solving skills and the ability to become change agents for continuous school improvement. View Course Intro Video
This course focuses on the major theories, strategies, and applications utilized in P-12 standards-driven learning environments. Participants review and apply current literature and educational research studies concerning standards-based curriculum, implementation strategies and tools. View Course Intro Video
This course prepares teachers to establish high expectations for all students and to effectively evaluate and implement theories of motivation and cognitive engagement in classroom learning. Emphasis will be placed on different theories of motivation and how classroom, school, work, and social environments shape and influence student motivation. View Course Intro Video
This course assists students in developing rigorous, appropriate curriculum and instruction. Multiculturalism, culturally relevant pedagogy, differentiated instruction, and thematic, interdisciplinary unit planning are emphasized. Using a curricular framework, students plan, evaluate, reflect on, and adapt curricula experiences that build successful learning environments for all learners including English language learners. View Course Intro Video
The Capstone Experience is designed for candidates to demonstrate and document the impact of their knowledge and competencies gained throughout and as a result of the Curriculum and Instruction program.