Assessment Context: This assignment is used in the second course the M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction and Educational Leadership. The assessment measures the understanding, use, and development of learning theories in application to practice. The minimum passing score for this critical assessment is 105.5 points.
Note: This course includes this assignment as a critical assessment documenting your learning on the national standards listed below. Please see the course syllabus or further information on the critical assessment policy. It is important to review the materials below and the critical assessment rubric before you begin this assignment.
You will write a scholarly paper based on best instructional practices. Frame your paper focused on a specific context (e.g., high school biology) so you can generate ideas for application as you write your paper. For example: If you are a kindergarten teacher you will write from that perspective and your examples will be based on best practices for that age group.
Within this paper you will address the following areas (please remember to stay focused on your chosen context):
Throughout your paper, please use examples from your teaching context as well as citations from your course readings and research. You must include at least three scholarly sources cited in-text and included as part of a reference list according to APA formatting guidelines (use direct quotes sparingly in order to prevent plagiarism).
This course includes this assignment as a critical assessment documenting your learning on the national standards described below. For information on the critical assessment policy, please review the course syllabus. Be sure to review the rubric for the assignment.
Standard #1: Learner Development: The teacher understands how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.
Standard #2: Learning Differences: The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure the inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards.
Standard #3: Learning Environments: The teacher works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
Standard #8: Instructional Strategies: The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
Support your statements with evidence from the required studies and your research. Cite and reference your sources in APA style.
Click here for information on course rubrics.