Investigations in Curriculum Change – EDUC 871

Course Description

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.

Rationale

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 with specific emphasis on how these impact the realm of educational leadership. Specifically the question of how leadership is related to teaching and learning as related to constructs in the realm of curriculum will be addressed.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes

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)

Discussion are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, throughout the course the candidate will answer the instructor’s prompt for 4 different Discussions in a thread. The candidate will then substantially reply to at least 2 other classmates’ threads. Discussions will be graded upon the quality of the content and the length of the thread and the response posts. The thread must be between 450–500 words and the reply posts must be between 100–150 words. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E)

Learn Assessments (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 Assessments (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)

Evaluation of a Literature Review

The candidate will locate a dissertation of interest and provide an evaluation of the dissertation’s literature review. Specific guidelines as to the various elements that a good literature review should contain and be evaluated upon will be provided. This assignment is intended to familiarize the candidate with the various elements of an effectively written literature review. (CLO:  H)

Synthesis Paper

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)

Literature Review

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

Synthesis Presentation

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.