Concentration in Digital Learning and Teaching

Program Summary

The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Digital Learning and Teaching is designed to help educators gain new ways of thinking about technology, student learning, classroom structure, and teacher and student roles. The program is built to teach how to design learning environments supported by technology, integrate technology into curriculum to maximize student learning, and evaluate new technologies for personal and professional productivity.

DL5013 The Digital Learner

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.

DL5023 The Digital Educator

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

DL5103 Instructional Models for Digital Learning

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.

DL5203 Digital Content for Learning

This course addresses development of instructional and learning materials utilizing computer- and web-based technology. In this applications course, educators survey and utilize technology tools for design and creation of learning objects with focus on cost effectiveness.

Department of Digital Learning and Teaching Chair

Catherine Dutton, Ph.D.
Texas Woman's University

Dr. Dutton taught high school in Dallas and Lewisville, Texas, and was the Manager of Instructional Technology at Texas Woman's University prior to joining ACE. She holds the degrees of Master of Arts in Teaching and Ph.D. in Family Studies. Dr. Dutton has taught at both the undergraduate and graduate level at Texas Woman’s University, Collin College and at American College of Education.

Her research interests include the use of virtual worlds and Web 2.0 technologies in classroom. She is an active presenter in the national online education community, contributing to Sloan-C, EDUCAUSE, and Blackboard World. She is recognized for innovative online course design and curriculum development.

Digital Learning and Teaching Faculty

Jason Caudill, Ph.D.

Jason Caudill holds a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology as well as an MBA and a B.S in Business Administration.  His research interests include online education and technology integration.  He has received multiple research awards and is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, an honor society promoting academic excellence in all disciplines of higher education. Jason enjoys outdoor activities, working with his hands, and serving in the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Judy Donovan, Ph.D.

Judy Donovan has taught PK-12 courses (math, English, Social Studies) in both face-to-face and online settings. She has been a school librarian and holds a doctorate in Instructional Technology from Nova Southeastern University. She has published textbook chapters, journal articles and other works on online learning, educational technology; she was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to the Ukraine. Dr. Donovan teaches educational technology and school library media classes. Her interests include reading and poker. She lives on the river bordering Canada near Detroit and loves watching the freighters go by.

Rebekah McPherson, Ph.D.

Rebekah McPherson holds a Ph.D. from The University of North Texas in Curriculum and Instruction with a minor in Educational Computing, an M.S. in Computer Education and Cognitive Systems with an emphasis in Instructional Systems Technology. She earned a BFA in graphic design from Baylor University. She is a Texas certified Master Technology Teacher, and also holds standard Texas teaching certificates in technology applications and technology education, along with an endorsement for English as a Second Language. Dr. McPherson has six years of teaching experience at the middle school and high school levels and two years of university experience.

Applicable fees

• Application fee: $50
• Technology fee: $7 per credit hour (for a total of $259)
• Program conferral fee: $100

2013 total program cost: $8,364. For more information, visit the tuition section.

Digital Learning and Teaching concentration courses within the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction