Teaching, with Teacher Certifications in Elementary School Teacher in Grades K-5 and Students with Disabilities (Preschool-Grade 12) (M.A.T.) - Graduate - 2012 University Catalog

You are viewing the 2012 University Catalog. Please see the newest version of the University Catalog for the most current version of this program's requirements.

Coordinator: Dr. Nancy Lauter
Office: University Hall, Room 3187
Phone: (973) 655-4243
Email: lautern@mail.montclair.edu


The Master of Arts in Teaching Program in Elementary Education and Teacher of Students with Disabilities is a 48 credit program designed to provide graduate students with a master's degree as well as dual certification: initial certification to teach Kindergarten through fifth grade (K-5) and certification to teach students with disabilities in K-5 settings. Students who apply to this program must hold a bachelor's degree in a liberal arts field (minimum 60 liberal arts credits). In addition, applicants must provide evidence of substantial and meaningful experience with groups of children, including children with special needs. Applicants must also achieve a passing score on the Praxis II test for Elementary Education: Content Knowledge (test code 014).

Montclair State University’s Teacher Education Program is one of the most highly-regarded teacher preparation programs in the country. It has been consistently recognized both nationally and regionally for its unique features, including its structure, partnerships, and curricular emphases. The program is considered a model for other colleges and universities and has continuously been accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) since 1954.


TEACHING (ELEMENTARY & STUDENTS w/DISAB)

  1. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE CERT

    1. SPEECH

      Complete the following 1 course: (May be completed by examination)

      CMST 101 Fundamentals of Speech: Communication Requirement (3 hours lecture) 3
    2. PHYSIOLOGY & HYGIENE

      Pass the MSU Health Knowledge Test available through the COP or have UG equivalent course approved by advisor.

    3. CHILD DEVELOPMENT

      Complete 1 course from the following:

      FCST 214 Child Development I (3 hours lecture, 1 hour other) 3
      FCST 314 Child Development II: Adolescence (3 hours lecture) 3
      FCST 512 Child Development I: Theories of Child Development (3 hours lecture) 3
      FCST 515 Child Development II: Adolescence (3 hours lecture) 3
  2. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

    Complete the following 4 requirement(s):

    1. REQUIRED COURSES

      Complete 4 requirement(s) for 27 semester hours:

      1. Complete the following 7 courses for 21 semester hours:

        ECEL 501 Perspectives on Early Childhood and Elementary Education in a Diverse Society (3 hours lecture) 3
        ECSE 508 Strengthening Partnerships with Families of Children with Disabilities (3 hours lecture) 3
        ELRS 503 Methods of Research (3 hours lecture) 3
        READ 500 The Nature of Reading. Starting Summer 2012: Literacy Foundations (3 hours lecture) 3
        SPED 566 Language-Based Learning Strategies for Use in Inclusive Settings (3 hours lecture) 3
        SPED 567 Instructional Planning for Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings I (3 hours lecture) 3
        SPED 579 Special Education for Students with Disabilities (3 hours lecture) 3
      2. Complete for 2 semester hours.

        SPED 584 Assessment and Evaluation in the Inclusive Classroom 2-3
      3. Complete for 2 semester hours.

        SPED 588 Promoting Prosocial Behaviors in Inclusive Settings 2-3
      4. Complete for 2 semester hours.

        SPED 585 Technology for Inclusive Classrooms 2-3
    2. CONTENT/METHODS

      Complete 3 courses for 9 semester hours:

      ECEL 516 Social Studies and the Arts: Understanding Democracy in Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture) 3
      ECEL 517 Integrating Science and Technology in Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture) 3
      MATH 577 Mathematics Education in the Elementary School (3 hours lecture) 3
    3. PROFESSIONAL SEQUENCE

      Complete the following 2 requirements:

      1. Part A

        Complete 3 courses for 5 semester hours:

        ECEL 502 Seminar I: Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (1 hour seminar) 1
        ECEL 504 Seminar II: Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (1 hour seminar) 1
        ECEL 522 Curriculum Development and Assessment in Diverse Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture) 3
      2. Part B

        Choose 1 of the following options:

        1. Complete 2 courses for 7 semester hours:

          ECEL 510 Clinical Experience I in Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Settings 2
          ECEL 511 Clinical Experience II in Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Settings 5
        2. Complete for 4 semester hours -8 semester hours (for those in full time teaching positions)

          CURR 514 Inservice Supervised Graduate Student Teaching 4-8
    4. COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION

      Successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination.


Course Descriptions:

CMST101: Fundamentals of Speech: Communication Requirement (3 hours lecture)

This course introduces students to the theoretical and practical requirements of different types of public presentations and helps students develop an understanding and appreciation of the dynamic nature of the communication process. The course focuses on the basic elements of the communication process, listening, communicator and audience characteristics, basic research skills, and message composition and delivery. Students learn about the demands of public presentations in culturally and professionally diverse environments and develop presentation competence and flexibility. Meets Gen Ed 2002 - Communication, Communication. Previous course SPCM 101 effective through Spring 2012. 3 sh.

CURR514: Inservice Supervised Graduate Student Teaching

Open only to post-baccalaureate and graduate students; this course replaces supervised student teaching for those already employed in teaching situations without standard certification. Joint supervision by the school district and University personnel. Student must obtain permission of department chairperson and the school district. Certain qualifications required. 4 - 8 sh.

Prerequisites: Departmental approval.

ECEL501: Perspectives on Early Childhood and Elementary Education in a Diverse Society (3 hours lecture)

Examines the historical, social, political, and philosophical trends and ideologies that impact the care and education of children. Emphasis will be placed on how models have changed over time to respond to the evolving needs and dispositions of our society with regard to brain research, inclusive practices and culturally responsive teaching and learning. 10 hours field work required. Starting Summer 2012: This course examines the education of children during their early and elementary school years from historical, political, social, and cultural perspectives. Students critically analyze issues influencing our current public education system to determine their impact on schools, teachers, children, families, and society. They examine ways our education system reflect and respond to the changing needs, knowledge, and dispositions of our democratic society with particular emphasis on inclusive education, culturally responsive teaching, and democratic practice. Required field work component. 3 sh.

ECEL502: Seminar I: Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (1 hour seminar)

Accompanies ECEL 510, Clinical Experience I in Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Settings, and offers students a forum for discussion, reflection, and critical thinking with regard to clinical work in inclusive elementary classrooms. 1 sh.

Prerequisites: Admission to M.A.T. in Early Childhood or Elementary Education or Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Early Childhood or Elementary Education.

ECEL504: Seminar II: Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (1 hour seminar)

Provides students with a forum to discuss the role of the teacher as teacher candidates take on full-time classroom responsibilities. Discussions focus on identifying and involving oneself in the professional field of early childhood/elementary/middle school education, upholding and advocating for ethical standards, engaging in continuous and collaborative learning, and taking a critical stabnce to inform practice. Teacher candidates demonstrate that they can make and justify decisions based on their knowledge of central issues such as developmentally appropriate practice, culturally responsive learning and teaching, and the context of children's lives. Starting Summer 2012: This course provides students with a forum to discuss the role of the teacher as teacher candidates take on full-time classroom responsibilities. Discussions focus on identifying and involving oneself in the professional field of early childhood/elementary/middle school education, upholding and advocating for ethical standards, engaging in continuous and collaborative learning, and taking a critical stance to inform practice. Teacher candidates demonstrate that they can make and justify decisions based on their knowledge of central issues such as developmentally appropriate practice, culturally responsive learning and teaching, and the context of children's lives. 1 sh.

ECEL510: Clinical Experience I in Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Settings

Provides clinical experiences in an early childhood or elementary setting to foster the skills and dispositions necessary to become effective and nurturing teachers. Students provide learning opportunities that support children's intellectual, social, and emotional development; design environments that support culturally responsive teaching; and plan and assess high quality curriculum. Students develop skills as reflective and questioning practitioners, promote democratic values and communication in the classroom, and build relationships with school colleagues, families, and agencies in the larger community. 2 sh.

Prerequisites: Admission to M.A.T. in Early Childhood or Elementary Education or Post-Baccalaureate Program in Early Childhood or Elementary Education.

ECEL511: Clinical Experience II in Inclusive Early Childhood and Elementary Settings

Students demonstrate their knowledge of child development and the significant role of families and communities with regard to children's learning by planning and implementing developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive curriculum in an inclusive early childhood/elementary classroom. Focusing on the diverse needs of individual children, students develop, implement, and assess an integrated curriculum unit that incorporates the Core Curriculum Content Standards and emphasizes literacy across the curriculum. As reflective practitioners, students utilize multiple strategies to assess children's learning, classroom climate, and effective classroom management. Students are responsible for the full range of teacher activities in the classroom and are expected to seek out the resources of parents, administrators, and school colleagues. Students are to demonstrate their strengths as a teacher. 5 sh.

Prerequisites: ECEL 510.

ECEL516: Social Studies and the Arts: Understanding Democracy in Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture)

Starting Summer 2012: By integrating the arts-dance, theater, music, and the visual arts-students consider the knowledge, skills and perspectives necessary to help learners become active and informed citizens able to think critically about local, national and global contexts in the 21st Century. Working independently and in groups, students use technology to enter real and virtual spaces to plan, implement, and evaluate teaching and learning. Course activities enable students to discover methods that position learners to understand the myths and truths of the past and present with the capacity to imagine future realities. Students learn how four strands frame social studies in New Jersey-(A) Civics, Government, Human Right; (B) Geography, People, and the Environment; (C) Economics Innovation, and Technology; and (D) History, Culture, and Perspectives. 3 sh.

ECEL517: Integrating Science and Technology in Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture)

Starting Summer 2012: Inquiry based science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) experiences for elementary instruction serve as a framework for this course. In this course, students examine the process of discovery through individual and group activities in STEM grounded in critical thinking and problem solving activities, effective pedagogical strategies that engage children in the wonder of STEM, a survey of dominant STEM curricula, and analysis of the impact policy documents have on the work of elementary educators. Opportunities for fieldwork. 3 sh.

ECEL522: Curriculum Development and Assessment in Diverse Elementary Classrooms (3 hours lecture)

Provides students with the opportunities to explore and experience research-based learning theories, teaching practices, curriculum, classroom management models, instructional strategies, and assessment used in upper elementary/middle level classrooms. Critical reviews of research, case study methods, planning and implementation of an integrated curriculum unit, and reflection on one's teaching beliefs will be investigated through journal writing, classroom observations, curricular development, assessment techniques, and group discussion. Starting Summer 2012: This course introduces students to reflective curriculum planning. Students plan a long-term integrated unit that integrates state standards, differentiated instructional strategies, and appropriate adaptations for students with diverse learning styles and interests, students with disabilities, and English Language Learners. They critically examine the issues related to their teaching and learning experiences focusing on inclusion practices, assessment, classroom management, equity and culturally responsive teaching. Students critically examine their teaching beliefs, ethics and teacher professionalism in the field of elementary education. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: ECEL 501.

ECSE508: Strengthening Partnerships with Families of Children with Disabilities (3 hours lecture)

Addresses family-professional partnerships in early childhood special education. Students gain knowledge, skills and dispositions to work collaboratively with diverse families to support the development and education of young children with special needs. Various models including family-focused practice and family systems theory are discussed. Starting Summer 2012: This course is designed to enhance students' understanding of the importance of meaningful family-professional partnerships. Students gain knowledge, skills, and dispositions to work collaboratively with diverse families to support the education of children with disabilities. The influence of historical, social, cultural, and community influences are deeply embedded in course content. Various approaches including family-focused practice and family systems theory are explored. Students draw from course readings, presentations by guest speakers, and personal and professional experiences to participate in class discussions, complete assignments and expand their understanding of issues vital to families of children with disabilities. 3 sh.

ELRS503: Methods of Research (3 hours lecture)

The course offers an overview of key methodological principles and approaches to quantitative and qualitative research. Research literacy and developing the ability to access, read, and critique professional research literature in education is a central focus of the course. The course also provides an opportunity for students to evaluate current research relevant to their professional interests. Starting Summer 2012: This course offers an overview of key methodological principles and approaches to quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. Research literacy and developing the ability to access, read, and critique professional research literature in education, counseling, and related fields is a central focus on the course. The course also provides an opportunity for students to evaluate current research relevant to their professional interests. 3 sh.

FCST214: Child Development I (3 hours lecture, 1 hour other)

This course takes a developmental approach to the study of young children from conception to age 10. For each developmental stage, physical, socio-emotional, cognitive, and language domains are discussed. Developmental theories are woven into each part of the course. Observational and research methodologies are emphasized. Out-of-class observations/interviews required. Starting Summer 2012: This course takes a developmental approach to the study of young children from conception to age 10. For each developmental stage, students explore physical, socio-emotional, cognitive, and language domains. Developmental theories are woven into each part of the course and an emphasis is placed upon observational and research methodologies. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: PSYC 101.

FCST314: Child Development II: Adolescence (3 hours lecture)

This course uses a developmental approach to study adolescents (11-18 years). Physical, cognitive and social development throughout this age period are studied. Family, peer, race, ethnicity, socio-cultural, and environmental influences on adolescents are examined. Starting Summer 2012: In this course students utilize a developmental approach to study adolescents (11-18 years) focusing on physical, cognitive and social development throughout this age period. Students examine the impact of family, peers, race, ethnicity, socio-cultural, and environmental influences on adolescents. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: FCST 214 and PSYC 101. Out-of-class interviews and/or observations are required.

FCST512: Child Development I: Theories of Child Development (3 hours lecture)

This course both examines and critiques the standard theories of so-called "normative" child development along with newer contextual models that consider the role of oppressive structures in the lives of children. Starting Summer 2012: In this course students examine and critique the standard theories of so-called "normative" child development along with newer contextual models that consider the role of oppressive structures in the lives of children. 3 sh.

FCST515: Child Development II: Adolescence (3 hours lecture)

This course uses a developmental and ecological approach to study adolescents (11-18 years). Physical, cognitive, and social development throughout this age period are studied in terms of change within and differences between individuals. Family, peer, neighborhood, sociocultural, and political influences on adolescents are examined. The roles of race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconimic status in adolescent development are like wise examined. Out-of-class observations and/or interview projects as well as an APA style research literature review or proposal paper are required. Starting Summer 2012: Students utilize developmental and ecological approaches to study physical, cognitive, and social development of adolescents (11-18 years) in terms of change within and differences between individuals. Students also examine how family, peer, neighborhood, sociocultural factors, and politics can have an influence on adolescents. The roles of race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status in adolescent development are likewise examined. Students also engage in out-of-class observations and/or interview projects as well as develop an APA style research literature review or proposal paper. 3 sh.

MATH577: Mathematics Education in the Elementary School (3 hours lecture)

The contemporary mathematics curriculum of the elementary and middle school. The role of behavioral objectives and learning theory in curriculum development/teacher training. Related research findings. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: Permission of graduate program coordinator.

READ500: The Nature of Reading. Starting Summer 2012: Literacy Foundations (3 hours lecture)

Examines the foundations of reading: the nature of the reading process, readiness, beginning instruction, current practices in the teaching of reading in early childhood and elementary education, a reappraisal of the role of reading in a technological society. Starting Summer 2012: Students examine the theoretical and pedagogical foundations of literacy and literacy teaching. This involves learning about reading development, early years and elementary literacy instruction, assessment processes and policies, and practical strategies for ensuring literacy success for all school students. 3 sh.

SPED566: Language-Based Learning Strategies for Use in Inclusive Settings (3 hours lecture)

This course presents an overall view of language development and language disorders as the basis for implementing instruction that attends to language-based learning difficulties. A major focus will be the development of instructional strategies that can be employed in inclusive classroom settings to promote learning across the curriculum. The use of metalinguistic and metacognitive strategies will be stressed. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: SPED 579. Students must be enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Instructional Teaching Certificate (CRI), Educational Services Certificate (CRE) or Master of Education (MED).

SPED567: Instructional Planning for Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings I (3 hours lecture)

This course is designed to provide educators with the skills necessary to meet the needs of students with disabilities in K-5 inclusive classrooms. Educators will learn how to use developmentally appropriate practice and universal design curriculum to enhance the learning of students who display competencies across a wide range. The major focus will be on practical techniques and strategies that can be used to provide quality instruction in inclusive settings. 3 sh.

Prerequisites: SPED 579. Students must be enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Instructional Teaching Certificate (CRI), Educational Services Certificate (CRE) or Master of Education (MED).

SPED579: Special Education for Students with Disabilities (3 hours lecture)

An overview of instruction for students with special needs; characteristics of special populations, federal and state legislation, educational implications of disabling conditions, principles for instruction and planning for inclusion are presented; community resources and special issues related to the education of students with disabilities are discussed. 3 sh.

SPED584: Assessment and Evaluation in the Inclusive Classroom

This course is designed to be an introduction for pre-service teachers in the field of Special Education assessment and accountability. The course will introduce students to elements of traditional assessment, including record keeping, grading, objective and essay testing, theories of validity as well as authentic, performance, and portfolio assessment. The keeping of anecdotal records, inclusion, heterogeneous groups, and accommodations will also be components of this course. 2 - 3 sh.

Prerequisites: SPED 579. Students must be enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Instructional Teaching Certificate (CRI), Educational Services Certificate (CRE) or Master of Education (MED).

SPED585: Technology for Inclusive Classrooms

The course is designed to provide educators with an understanding of how to use technology as a seamless part of the teaching and learning experience for students with disabilities in inclusive settings. Two main purposes for students with disabilities will be emphasized. Teachers will learn how to provide access to the curriculum for students with disabilities by using the principles of Universal Design for Learning as a framework for curriculum design. They will learn how to utilize technology to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities in order for them to attain maximum independence and participation in all environments. 2 - 3 sh.

Prerequisites: SPED 579. Students must be enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Instructional Teaching Certificate (CRI), Educational Services Certificate (CRE) or Master of Education (MED).

SPED588: Promoting Prosocial Behaviors in Inclusive Settings

This course is designed to provide future teachers with theory and practice related to the development of appropriate prosocial behaviors within inclusive classroom settings for students with disabilities. This course will focus on behavior and the developmental and environmental factors that influence its expression. Emphasis will be placed on functional analysis of behavior, how to promote appropriate behavior, and how to develop a classroom setting that fosters prosocial behaviors. Principles of social/emotional learning, social skills development as well as data collection, schedules of reinforcement monitoring progress, social problem solving, and promotion of positive behavior plans will be explored. 2 - 3 sh.

Prerequisites: SPED 579. Students must be enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Instructional Teaching Certificate (CRI), Educational Services Certificate (CRE) or Master of Education (MED).

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