MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SPECIAL EDUCATION
Courses are offered in the evenings during the school year and either in the day or the evening in the summer. Day classes in the summer are offered primarily in intensive three-week sessions. The courses may be taken in any order, with the exception of the practicum, which may only be taken after the successful completion of all of the courses for certification (EDU 570-576) or with the approval of the program director. Following are descriptions of the master's-level course work.
EDU 502
Advanced Studies in the Foundations of Education (3) This course reviews historical, sociological, and philosophical factors as related to events and problems of present-day American education. The course will also review the research related to the foundations of the America public, private, and home school movements.
EDU 503
Applied Research in Education (3) The design of this course will enable graduate students to understand research literature, to provide written evaluations of research documents, and design and author a research project that could be carried out throughout the path of their academic career. The goals of this class are to develop critical thinking and writing skills required of graduate level study and professional practice, and to develop an understanding of the dynamic research process as it relates to professional practice.
EDU 505
Advanced Theories and Principles of Learning (3) This course covers the theories and principles of learning, surveys theory and research in learning, and examines the application of principles of learning to contemporary settings.
EDU _ _ _
Special Topics (1-3) Students may choose from the following possible options. These are just a sample of possible courses. Elective credits must total three (3).
Grant Writing
Gender in Education
Language Acquisition and Communication Disorders
Teaching English as a Second Language
Literature of Minorities
Philosophies of World Religions
EDU 570
Advanced Studies in Exceptional Children (3) This course outlines the historical development of special education. It also details special education law, state special education requirements, the identification and eligibility process, ethical issues, and other foundational issues related to the field of special education. It provides a detailed understanding of federal and state special ed legal forms, such as the IEP. Students will also have the opportunity to review and engage in research related to individuals with disabilities.
EDU 571
Assessment of Exceptional Children (3) This course prepares students to assess individuals with physical and/or mental disabilities both at the elementary and secondary level. Students will emerge from this course with a knowledge and understanding of the assessments that are given by licensed personnel to identify students with physical and mental disabilities and demonstrate the ability to administer a variety of standardized achievement and diagnostic instruments. Students will also have the opportunity to review and engage in research related to the assessment of children with disabilities.
EDU 572
Academic Skill Intervention for Exceptional Children (3) This course prepares graduate students in special education to develop and implement special education and inclusive academic programs for the physically and/or mentally disabled student. Proven methods, strategies, and techniques will be discussed along with the required planning behind the use of such methods, strategies and techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to review and engage in research related to the use of effective instructional methods and techniques for children with disabilities.
EDU 573
Behavioral Skill Intervention for Exceptional Children (3) This course prepares graduate students to develop and implement behavioral interventions with students who are behaviorally, emotionally, physically, and/or mentally disabled. Behavioral management, behavioral modification techniques, therapeutic crisis intervention, behavioral avoidance skills and other methods will be emphasized to prepare Geneva graduate students to prevent and deal with problem behaviors with skill and confidence. Students will also have the opportunity to review and engage in research related to the use of effective behavioral management methods and techniques for children with disabilities.
EDU 574
Reading Intervention for the Exceptional Child (3) This course includes both the theory and the practice needed for success in teaching reading to exceptional students. The link between literacy-related assessment and effective instructional intervention is emphasized. Students enrolled in the course will have the opportunity to engage in action research related to both reading assessmnet and reading instruction.
EDU 575
The Role and Function of the Special Education Teacher (3) This course brings together the knowledge and skills covered in previous courses to prepare prospective special educators to be effective in the day-to-day operations of directing a special education program whether serving in a resource, self-contained, itinerant, consultation, or inclusive classroom in either an elementary, middle school, or secondary environment. This course also addresses current relevant issues in special education.
EDU 576
Advanced Studies of Severe Disabilities (3) This course broadens student understanding of individuals with severe disabilities including assessment, appropriate interventions, medical issues, and placement. Students study the educational processes of individuals with severe disabilities. This course provides an understanding of curriculum development, methods, materials, and special training techniques as applied in various settings. Special emphasis is given to the vocational and self-help needs of this population.
EDU 592
Special Education Practicum (3) An independent practicum in which the student engages in supervised professional activities in selected cooperating community agencies, local education agencies, and/or intermediate units to foster the necessary professional competencies. Students will maintain a portfolio to document achievement of required PA competencies for certification. Students will complete and document 60 hours of practicum time.
Arrangements can be made for those individuals who wish to obtain Pennsylvania certification in Special Education without completing the Master of Education Program. This program would be for certification only and would not signify completion of a Master's degree. These courses, however, could be counted toward the Master of Education degree should you wish to take the remaining classes at a later date.
