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Lasell University
Lasell University

2019 - 2020 Academic Catalog

Non-Licensure in Curriculum, Leadership and Inclusion

Non-Licensure

Lasell Master of Education also offers a non-licensure program in Curriculum, Leadership and Inclusion.  This program provides teachers and consultants with expertise in designing and developing curriculum for diverse learners.  Students are not required to pass the MTEL exams in this program, although any graduate from this program can take the MTELs should s/he so desire.  As K-8 education continues to struggle with meeting the needs of an increasingly diverse student body, leadership is needed to effect change in the way we teach and design curriculum and how we train teachers to meet students where they live.

The mission of the Lasell University Master of Education degree programs is to provide new and experienced teachers with;

  • a broad understanding of practice and theory related to curriculum and instruction.
  • familiarity with the needs of diverse learners and resources for meeting those needs.
  • engagement in professional collaboration; exploration and support of community resources.
  • and experiences as consumers and producers of research.

The M.Ed. in Curriculum, Leadership and Inclusion is a flexible degree that will provide students multiple options to work in the field of education.  And, if they so desire, graduates can take the MTELs and be prepared to teach in public schools. The goals of the program are:  

1.       Prepare teacher leaders to address the growing diversity of student needs in schools, not-for profits, and other education related contexts nationally and internationally.

2.       Prepare graduate students in a cross-disciplinary field in education that can better respond to the needs in society including: addressing cultural and linguistic diversity, academic differences and disability, marginalization and discrimination in education curriculum, and application and evaluation of inclusive models of instruction and leadership.

3.       Prepare graduate students to become consumers of the latest educational research so that they can link and close the research to practice divide and address societal issue related to activism, advocacy, and education for all students. This program is comprised of courses already offered and required within our licensure master's degree programs.

ED711 - Curriculum & Assessment Diverse Learners*

This course considers research, principles, and strategies for effective instruction and classroom organization, particularly in the context of supporting diverse learners and teaching in diverse settings. Topics include differentiated instruction, curriculum planning and resources, formal and informal assessments of student progress, modifications appropriate to meet linguistic and cultural differences, and accommodations for special needs learners. Requires classroom observations at multiple locations.

ED712 - Literacy Instruction: Elementary*

This course explores literacy learning and teaching in grades 1 – 6. Topics include the role of phonemic awareness, phonics, and word analysis in reading and writing; the relationship among vocabulary development, comprehension, and fluency; formal and informal assessments to measure literacy development and guide classroom instruction; and effective instructional strategies and materials to support elementary learners in reading and writing. Includes focus on differentiating instruction for readers and writers with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Requires a pre-practicum.

ED713 - Reading Supports for Elementary Learners*

This course examines formal and informal assessments of reading difficulties, especially those currently in use, and their analysis, interpretation, and application to classroom instruction and placement. Students explore strategies, materials, and modifications appropriate for classroom teachers, as well as specialized programs. Requires classroom observations. Prerequisite: ED 712.

ED771* - Understanding/Using Educational Research

This course explores major paradigms of educational research, including concepts, methods, and terminology related to each. Students read, analyze, and discuss both seminal and current research in relevant areas; study trends in educational research; and apply findings to their own practice by designing a classroom-based research project with CPHS approval. Prerequisite: completion of at least 21 credits in the graduate education program. Requires presenting proposal in symposium setting

ED772* - Teacher as Researcher

This course focuses on conducting, refining, completing, analyzing, reporting, and presenting the research project designed in ED 771 in research paper format and presentation. Requires presenting findings in symposium setting. Prerequisite: ED 771.

ED773 - Teacher as Leader*

This course explores various aspects of leadership and change in education, business, and other professions. Includes theories and models of leadership, organizational change and behavior, and policy analysis, as well as approaches to mentoring and coaching. Helps participants identify their own leadership styles and goals.

SPED711 - Learners with Special Needs*

This course provides information on characteristics of special needs learners, including physical, emotional, and learning disabilities, with a focus on how these needs may affect classroom organization, planning, and instruction. Introduces assessment, models of special education delivery, and multiple perspectives on educating special needs learners. Requires classroom observations.

SPED712 - Curriculum & Resources in SPED*

This course provides experience in curriculum planning and instruction that meets the needs of special education learners with specific disabilities. Requires classroom observation and teaching.

SPED721 - Inclusive Education*

This course provides knowledge and resources related to teaching special needs learners in an inclusive classroom. Topics include collaborating with other professionals to plan and deliver instruction, co-teaching, classroom management techniques, behavior interventions, assistive technology, and appropriate modifications, adaptations, and accommodations. Requires classroom observation and teaching.

SPED722 - Policy, Law, & Disability*

This course provides in-depth understanding of federal and state laws and regulations related to special education. Introduces resources for special needs learners, parents or care-takers, and teachers, including school professionals, services available in area communities, advocacy groups, professional associations, mental health care professionals, and medical professionals. Includes focus on collaboration among these various groups to support special needs learners and their families. Recommended prerequisites: SPED 711, SPED 712.