EDUC 871 Investigations in Curriculum Change

Review and evaluation of theories, models, and strategies for change; recognition and use of this knowledge as a practical guide to problem solving.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Course Guide

View this course’s outcomes, policies, schedule, and more.*

*The information contained in our Course Guides is provided as a sample. Specific course curriculum and requirements for each course are provided by individual instructors each semester. Students should not use Course Guides to find and complete assignments, class prerequisites, or order books.


Research in specific areas of academic interest is necessary for professional growth. For this course, these specific areas of research will focus on curricular and leadership-related issues at either the K–12 or college and university level. Emphasis will be placed on how these issues impact the realm of educational leadership. The course will also address the question of how leadership applies to teaching and learning as related to constructs in the realm of curriculum.


Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (4)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the candidate is required to create a thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. The candidate will then substantially reply to at least 2 other classmates’ threads. Discussions will be graded on the quality of the content and the length of the thread and the replies. The thread must be between 450–500 words and the replies must be between 100–150 words. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E)

Learn Assessment Assignments (4)

The candidate will write 4 Learn Assessments throughout the course. The candidate will provide critical analysis, assessments, critiques, and applications to various chapter readings, articles, and website sources. Each assignment will be between 2–3 pages written in current APA format. The assignment must include a title page and reference page (no abstract is required and paper length does not include the title page or reference page). (CLO: A, B, C, D, E, F)

Leadership and Scripture Assessment Assignments (2)

Leadership traits and practices will be examined in light of scriptural insight and understanding. The candidate will review appropriate instructor notes and assigned Scripture readings. The candidate will demonstrate understanding of leadership principles and scriptural insight along with practical application to current or future leadership roles. Both assignments must be between 1–2 pages, not counting the cover or reference pages, and written in current APA format. (CLO: G, J)

Annotated Bibliography Assignment

The candidate will select a topic of study for the Literature Review Assignment and locate 10 scholarly sources surrounding the topic. The candidate will write an annotated bibliography of the 10 sources, providing a critical analysis and thoughtful reflection of each source. (CLO:  H)

Synthesis Paper Assignment

The candidate will complete a paper regarding the assigned textbook readings. The synthesis will provide thoughtful analysis, insight, understanding, and application of topics reviewed, written in current APA format. The Synthesis Paper must be between 4–5 pages, not counting the cover or reference pages. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E, F, G)

Synthesis Presentation Assignment

The candidate will create a PowerPoint presentation regarding the assigned textbook readings. The synthesis will provide thoughtful analysis, insight, understanding, and application of topics reviewed. The end result should be a 30–45 minute presentation. The written portion and reference page must follow current APA format. 

Literature Review Assignment

The candidate will write a review of literature focusing on curriculum and/or curriculum leadership issues. This paper must be between 13–15 content pages, not including cover page, abstract page, and reference page – all of which are required. This paper must include a minimum of 10 scholarly sources. This assignment must be written in current APA format and must incorporate headings and subheadings as much as possible. (CLO: J)


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