Instructional Technology Classes Online

In this course, students will explore theories regarding innovation and the challenges associated with innovating in an educational culture. Students will examine aspects of an innovator’s mindset, as well as behaviors and practices conducive to the effecting and sustaining of innovations.

This course is designed to provide an overview of education from historical, philosophical, and sociological perspectives. Students will expand on their understanding of contemporary education through an investigation of the changing role of educators in current social, political, and economic times using current peer reviewed articles and other open educational resources (OER).

This course is designed to engage practitioners in the collection, evaluation, and interpretation of educational research for use in a variety of educational practices. The student will investigate the basis of educational research, along with pertinent methods of data collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative research results. Emphasis will be placed on research problems, designs, and findings in the student’s selected area of concentration. Students will be expected to demonstrate their ability to narrow a research topic, complete accepted scholarly search strategies, identify and synthesize research articles, and correctly format a literature review using established APA guidelines.

This course will enable participants to develop an understanding of educational technology and how it can be used to create authentic learning, engage learners and increase rigor in their curriculum. Participants will review and discuss literature and research conclusions about educational technology theory and develop a repertoire of effective techniques and strategies that have reliable evidence of substantial success in instructional settings. Topics such as technology standards, pedagogy, learning strategies, creating a community of learners, assessment of technology products, questioning techniques, and classroom management strategies will be examined.

This course is designed to enhance and extend the technology skills of practicing individuals, apply those skills in innovative ways, and create an environment that supports collaborative, project-based learning. Participants will study basic and advanced features of software (operating system, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, Internet, concept mapping) and hardware (interactive white boards, projectors, wireless technology, projectors, cameras) and integrating technology.

This course will enable participants to develop advanced computer skills and apply them in the classroom. Participants will use digital tools to create and manipulate video, audio, the web, text, or animated multimedia.

This course will enable participants to use digital communication tools to effectively communicate in different media, be it websites, video, audio, text, or animated multimedia. Participants will select the right medium for the message and create different forms of communication for students, parents and peers. Course participants will be able to describe digital literacy, what it is, and its importance as a skill for this generation of learners. Topics and software such as podcast, discussion boards, websites, video, information literacy, acceptable use, privacy and security policies, digital etiquette and responsible social interactions will be covered.

This course will provide a foundation in major theories of adult learning (andragogy), digital etiquette, responsible social interaction, and online education. Participants will focus on developing an online course for adult learners by designing and developing an instructional product in digital format.

This course will introduce students to contemporary educational technology issues in local, state, national, and international education contexts. The course is designed to evaluate contemporary issues in educational technology at the elementary, secondary, administrative and business levels. This course provides an opportunity for students to re-evaluate their conceptualizations and beliefs regarding those contemporary issues identified for discussion. Students will review and discuss literature related to topics such as information literacy, ethics, learn/work skills-set, gaming, interactive web applications, leadership, teacher leadership, past and current legislation, professional development, standards-based education, decision-making, copyright.

This project is designed for field practitioners. The project will be conceptualized at the beginning of the student’s program, approved by their advisor, updated, and refined as the student completes class work during their course of study. The final project will form a coherent package integrating the students’ Educational Technology educational experiences and their anticipated or ongoing professional responsibilities.

In this course, students will explore various theories and models of leadership and the unique challenges associated with leading in an educational setting. By means of group and individual exercises, students will examine their own skill sets and personality traits in order to develop a personal philosophy of leadership.