Degree: Master or Arts or Master of Education

Major: Curriculum and Instruction

Concentrations:

• Educational Technology (M.A. 39 hours) (M.Ed. 39 hours)
• English Education (M.Ed. only, 39 hours)
• Environmental Education (M.Ed. only, 39 hours)
• Interdisciplinary Topics (M.A. 39 hours) (M.Ed. 39 hours)

College: Education

Division: Graduate Studies

The Curriculum and Instruction program provides advanced study in education and is designed to improve the competency of teachers, to serve the career needs and goals of individuals in education-related fields, to encourage research in a student's area of concentration, and to initiate and implement programs involving the schools and the community.

The Educational Technology Concentration of the M.A. or M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to provide students with a theoretical foundation and the practical skills required for developing curriculum and instructional materials using technology. Students prepare for work in special areas of concentration and for a variety of settings, from pre-school through adult education. The program, consistent with its high technology, cutting edge content, is delivered online as well as in hybrid and face-to-face formats, all utilizing a high level of technological integration. Students are expected to have access to appropriate computing technology and often must purchase and load software or other technology materials to meet course requirements. The program's curriculum enables students to (a) provide leadership in applying information technology to a variety of educational systems and settings; (b) provide in-service education and basic technical support to teachers and instructors who wish to use technology in curriculum and instruction; (c) assist in curriculum development that integrates technology as a tool for learning; and (d) design and implement courses in computer applications, literacy, and programming. The M.Ed. program is specifically designed for those who already possess Florida teacher certification, while the M.A. program is designed for those who are neither currently seeking nor intending to seek Florida certification.

The English Education Concentration of the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to meet the needs of certified teachers who wish to gain a graduate degree in the teaching of English and Language Arts. Certification in Secondary English is required for admission. The program of study is practitioner-oriented and focuses on increasing the curriculum and instructional expertise of teachers. It provides opportunities for teachers to become teacher-leaders in English Education through association with the National Writing Project at Florida Gulf Coast University.

The Environmental Education Concentration of the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to meet the needs of certified teachers who wish to gain a graduate degree in teaching Science with an environmental focus. This concentration is practitioner-oriented and focuses on increasing the curriculum and instructional expertise of teachers.

The Interdisciplinary Topics Concentration of the M.Ed. or M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree and are seeking to focus in curriculum and instruction as applied to an interdisciplinary area drawn from other graduate specializations in the College of Education and in selected areas throughout the University. The M.Ed. program (minimum 39 credit hours) will be for those who already have teacher certification. The M.A. program (minimum of 45 credit hours) will be for those who do not have prior teacher certification or do not wish to seek certification in a state approved teacher certification program but whose work or professional interests will be enhanced by a study of curriculum and instruction.

Interdisciplinary themes are individually developed courses of study that have an acceptable rationale and coherence. All individual course prerequisites must be met. To ensure that course of study can be successfully developed, students interested in this option collaboratively develop their theme and plan of study initially with a College of Education advisor. That proposal will be reviewed and approved by their advisor as well as at least two other faculty from the two areas from which they are seeking to take the most number of credit hours. A student's advisor and area program faculty must approve themes and the student's plan of study.