Courses

This course explores how individuals, cultures, and societies perceive and interpret the world around them. Drawing on philosophical, religious, cultural, and ideological perspectives, candidates will examine various contemporary educational issues. Candidates will engage with diverse perspectives to cultivate empathy and understanding for viewpoints different from their own. Finally, this course provides a platform for candidates to engage in pivotal inquiry and respectful dialogue surrounding contemporary educational issues. (3 Units)

This course introduces students to ethical theories and principles that inform their everyday values-formation, decision-making, and civic participation. Students will practice critical thinking and civil dialogue related to complex ethical conversations and dilemmas that are prevalent in our communities (ex., Poverty, immigration, access to healthcare, gender and sexual identity, etc.). Students will consider each issue with attention to a biblical worldview and framework of shalom (human flourishing). Through lecture, readings, and discussion, the course aims to educate students about the various positions, ethical approaches, and moral arguments for each issue; the complexities that often surround moral choices; and consider policy implications at the personal, professional, national, and international levels. (3 Units)

This course will equip candidates to appraise the relationship between the theories and practices of human development and teaching/learning methods. Specifically, candidates will examine the manner in which world view perspectives of developmental forces impact classroom policies and procedures. The role of assessment in determining student needs and designing appropriate pedagogical strategies will also be emphasized. This course will solidify understanding of the strengths-based approach to making the pedagogical decisions required in the TPA process. Four (4) hours of fieldwork is required. (3 Units)

An introduction to research methods in education. Provides opportunity to develop skill in interpreting research literature; to become acquainted with sources of research literature; to develop an understanding of the methodology of educational research; and to become a critical reader of research reports. An emphasis on the teacher as researcher will provide a basis for assignments. (3 Units)

This course examines K-12 educational systems in the global society. Students will compare schooling in various societies and examine the history of their respective educational systems and how the systems were organized to meet the political, social and economic agenda of the 21st century. By examining different approaches to common problems, students will have a broad foundation upon which they can analyze and evaluate different strategies for problem solving educational issues. Students will develop their personal worldview of international education based on a Judeo-Christian worldview. Students may only earn credit for EDUC5340 or 5340G. (3 Units)