Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction – concentration in Reading

Program Overview

The M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction - Reading program at EMU enhances educators' understanding of curriculum and instruction, with a focus on reading methods and addressing diverse learner needs. Delivered online, the program equips participants with research-based knowledge, culturally responsive practices, and 21st-century strategies to create engaging and effective learning environments. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in curriculum development, literacy instruction, and educational administration.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction - Reading is designed to enhance an individual's capacity to become a transformational educational leader with a deepened understanding of curriculum and instruction that effectively addresses the diverse needs of learners. The program's focus encompasses designing and evaluating leading-edge, inquiry-based, and culturally relevant curricula. It explores current theories and issues and their impact on curriculum and instruction. The Reading concentration emphasizes reading methods in content areas and addressing the needs of struggling readers. Objectives of the Program:

• Enhance participants' knowledge of reading pedagogy.
• Cultivate the ability to apply research-based knowledge to improve students' fluency and comprehension skills.
• Equip individuals with the knowledge of educational policies and instructional approaches essential for fostering literacy.
• Provide the understanding of how to create culturally responsive classrooms where all students feel supported, empowered, and nurtured.
• Enhance the understanding of the integration of technology and the application of effective, 21st-century strategies to create engaging student-centered learning environments.
Program Description: The M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction - Reading is a comprehensive program comprising ten courses spanning over 30 credit hours. Delivered entirely online, the program provides accessibility and convenience to its participants. Students benefit from personalized support from experienced faculty, connecting with fellow educators and administrators through EMU's expansive alumni network, and engaging in practical field experiences, ensuring a real-world application of the learned concepts.

Outline:

Required Courses (10 courses, 30 credit hours):

CURR 656: Curriculum Design, Implementation, and Evaluation (3 credit hours)

• Develops skills in creating, executing, and assessing curriculum plans and programs.

EDPS 667: Principles of Educational Research (3 credit hours)

• Provides a foundation in quantitative and qualitative research methods, fostering critical analysis and evaluation skills.

LTEC 602: Technology and Student-Centered Learning (3 credit hours)

• Explores technology integration in education, incorporating theoretical and practical aspects, including the implementation of student-centered learning strategies.

SFCE 655: Education for Justice: Toward a Diverse, Democratic, & Sustainable Society (3 credit hours)

• Examines the relationship between schools and society, addressing concepts of cultural diversity, social justice, and environmental sustainability.

CURR 665: Differentiation in the Classroom (3 credit hours)

• Focuses on customizing instruction to meet the unique needs of learners, fostering inclusive and effective teaching practices.

CURR 670: Curriculum & Teaching Strategies for the 21st Century (3 credit hours)

• Explores contemporary approaches to curriculum development and instruction, addressing 21st-century skills and innovative methodologies.

CURR 674: Creating Culturally Responsive Classrooms (3 credit hours)

• Emphasizes strategies for building inclusive and empowering learning environments that value and celebrate diversity.

CURR 650: Improving Instruction through Inquiry (3 credit hours)

• Examines motivation theories and the development of instructional strategies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

RDNG 657: Comprehension and the Content Areas (3 credit hours)

• Analyzes reading comprehension theories and explores techniques for supporting reading comprehension across various content areas.

RDNG 630: Literacy Instruction in a Multilingual Society (3 credit hours)

• Focuses on effective literacy instruction for English language learners, addressing research-based practices and policy frameworks.

Assessment:

Evaluation methods in the program encompass:

• Coursework and assignments, including written reports, presentations, and online discussions.
• Participation in class activities, group projects, and online forums.
• Field experience, involving practical application of theoretical concepts.
• Comprehensive final project, showcasing knowledge acquisition and skills development.

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced EMU faculty who are experts in their respective fields. The program incorporates a blended approach of asynchronous and synchronous learning, catering to diverse learning styles and schedules. Asynchronous online sessions provide flexibility, while synchronous live sessions foster real-time engagement and interaction.

Careers:

Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to pursue various career opportunities, including:

• Curriculum Coordinator
• Curriculum Leader in Literacy Instruction
• Literacy Coach
• Education Consultant
• Reading Specialist
• School Administrator