Last updated: March 10, 2022 @ 03:07PM
Education
Master of Education (MEd)
Dean
Michael Owen
Faculty of Education
Associate Dean, Graduate Student Services, International, and Research
Michael O'Sullivan
Faculty of Education
Graduate Faculty
Core Faculty
Professors
Denise Armstrong, Sheila M. Bennett, Fiona Blaikie, Sandra Bosacki, Lorenzo Cherubini, Darlene Ciuffetelli Parker, Susan M. Drake, Xavier Fazio, Candace Figg, Tiffany Gallagher, Debra Harwood, David Hutchison, Kamini Jaipal-Jamani, Julian Kitchen, Chunlei Lu, Michelle McGinn, Ruth McQuirter, Dolana Mogadime, Michael Owen, Lissa Paul, Nancy Taber, Susan Tilley, Mary-Louise Vanderlee, Louis Volante, Kari-Lynn Winters, Vera Woloshyn
Associate Professors
Joe Barrett, Hilary Brown, Diane Collier, Ann-Marie DiBiase, Tony Di Petta, Shelley Griffin, Catherine Hands, Doug Karrow, Xiaobin Li, Robert McGray, Francine Menashy, Joyce Mgombelo, Trevor Norris, Michael O'Sullivan, Camille Rutherford, Michael Savage, Leanne Taylor, Peter Vietgen
Assistant Professors
Mira Bajovic, Sandra Della Porta, Dane Di Cesare, Stanley Henry, Sally Hooper, Steven Khan, Anjali Khirwadkar, Rahul Kumar, Catherine Longboat, Michael Mindzak, Nicola Simmons, Monique Somma
Participating Faculty
Professors Emeriti
Sharon M. Abbey, Ralph Connelly, Coral Mitchell, John M. Novak.
Professors
Maureen Connolly (Kinesiology), John McNamara (Child and Youth Studies), Shannon Moore (Child and Youth Studies), Tim O'Connell (Recreation and Leisure Studies), Dawn Zinga (Child and Youth Studies)
Associate Professors
Gail Frost (Kinesiology)
Administrative Offices
Chair
David Hutchison
dhutchison@brocku.ca
Graduate Program Director
Michael Savage
msavage@brocku.ca
Graduate Student Academic Coordinator
Wanda Burger
905-688-5550, ext. 5496
WH114
wburger@brocku.ca
Administrative Coordinator
Betty Chambers
905-688-5550, ext. 3082
WH113
bchambers@brocku.ca
Administrative Assistant
Danielle Larmon
905-688-5550, ext. 4823
WH127
dlarmon@brocku.ca
Graduate Assistant
905-688-5550
med@brocku.ca
International Programs Manager
Susan Virtue
905-688-5550, ext. 6084
WH9D
svirtue@brocku.ca
International Student Services Coordinator
Clinton Kewley
905-688-5550, ext. 6309
WH9F
ckewley@brocku.ca
Graduate Student Support Coordinator
(Non-Academic Student Support)
Cecilia Garcia Vega
905-688-5550, ext. 3994
WH127
cgarciavega@brocku.ca
Master of Education
Program Description
The Master of Education (MEd) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical perspectives that have influenced education, and a foundational understanding of research. The program has a variety of courses that focus on specific topic areas as well as ones that are general, addressing broad educational topics (please see the course descriptions). Students in the course- and research-based pathways who wish to engage in an in-depth study of one or more topics in their program will be able to examine issues and concepts within particular areas of study, or concentrations. Students in the Internationally educated, Student Pathway (ISP) may choose to complete their program in one of two fields of specialization: Administration and Leadership in Education, and Teaching, Learning and Development. Courses are offered at the main campus in St. Catharines as well as at a satellite location and online. Both full- and part-time studies are available. The MEd program is intended to enhance the capacity of students to engage in critical reflection, scholarly inquiry, and informed educational practice. Graduates obtain credentials to pursue careers in higher education, adult education, training and / or professional development services, health related fields, or doctoral studies.
Admission Requirements
Students will normally hold a four-year Bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited university with a minimum 75% (Brock University equivalent) average over the last two years of full-time undergraduate study. Successful teaching or other professional experience is an asset. Applicants who have not completed their undergraduate degree at a university where English was the primary language of instruction will be required to provide proof of English Language Proficiency.
For full listing of accepted tests see: brocku.ca/education/programs/graduate-programs/master-of-education/#program-pathway-options, and brocku.ca/education/programs/graduate-programs/master-of-education-international/.
Degree Requirements
Students have the option of completing their MEd program following either a Course Pathway or a Research Pathway. All students must complete EDUC 5P92 Introduction to Educational Research and an exit course that corresponds to their pathway. Additionally, all students must register in EDUC 5N99 Graduate Seminar in Education, a non-credit course that runs in the fall term only.
Students in course-and research-based pathways may take any additional course offered in the program to meet their credit requirements. Students in the course-based pathway or research-based MRP option may choose to complete their coursework in one or two concentrations, or to complete a general MEd degree with no concentrations. Students in the research-based pathway who are completing the thesis option are required to complete their coursework in one concentration. Students in the Internationally educated Student Pathway (ISP) complete their course- or research-based studies in one of two fields of specialization (please see the program of study for the ISP).
Program Pathway Options
Course-based Pathway
All students in the course pathway must complete:
Nine half-credit courses including EDUC 5P92, plus the exit course EDUC 5Q97 Culminating Seminar.
Research-based Pathway
Students in the Research Pathway may elect to complete either a Major Research Paper (MRP) or a thesis. Full-time students in the Research Pathway make the decision to complete either a thesis or MRP after they have successfully completed their fall term. Part-time students decide after course work is completed. For this, students must submit an Application to Complete an MRP or an Application to Complete a Thesis, plus a 250-word Research Plan after their course work has been completed. Students in the MRP or Thesis option may register in either the EDUC 5P98 or EDUC 5P96, but not both and should take an additional research-based course.
Major Research Paper Option:
All students in the Research Pathway Major Research Paper (MRP) option must complete:
Seven half-credit courses including EDUC 5P92, plus the exit course EDUC 5D91 Major Research Paper.
Thesis Option:
All students in the Research Pathway Thesis option must complete:
Five half-credit courses including EDUC 5P92, plus the exit course EDUC 5K95 Thesis Tutorial.
Concentrations
Students apply into a general MEd program, and are able to register for any course offered in the program. Most of the program’s courses are clustered together into six concentrations that allow students to examine topics within particular areas of study. Each concentration has a core course, which provides foundational content for the concentration, and a selection of additional courses from which to choose. In addition to P courses, V courses are special topic electives that may be offered occasionally in response to student interest, and may be taken as concentration electives. Students must complete a minimum of three courses including the core course in a concentration in order to apply for a concentration designation on their transcripts.
Administration, Leadership and Policy
This concentration engages students in a critical examination of theories that influence administrative practice with the aim of understanding, creating, and sustaining ethical and humane educational institutions and developing an informed administrative identity. Students interested in completing a concentration in Administration, Leadership and Policy are required to complete the core course: EDUC 5P60 Constructions of Organization. They must also complete a minimum of two concentration electives. The concentration electives include: EDUC 5P62, 5P63, 5P64, 5P70, 5P72, 5P73, 5P74, 5P75, and 5P76. A minimum of six concentration courses will be offered each academic year; however, the offerings may change from year to year.
Adult and Postsecondary Education
This area of concentration engages students in a critical examination of theories, principles, and practices that influence learners across the lifespan of their learning. This concentration also examines key issues in post-secondary organizations. To attain credit for completing this concentration, students must successfully complete the concentration’s core course, EDUC 5P05 Foundations of Adult and Postsecondary Education, and at least two other courses of their choice in the concentration (EDUC 5P14, 5P24, 5P33, 5P34, 5P35, 5P36, 5P51, 5P52, 5P84, and 5V40). The concentration’s core course is offered every year. Four additional courses in the concentration are offered each year on a rolling basis.
Curriculum Studies
This concentration focuses on critical, innovative, and contemporary approaches to curriculum. The courses promote analysis of curriculum research and practice, and application of this knowledge to diverse educational contexts. The concentration is designed to support pre-school to post-secondary practitioners and novice researchers interested or engaged in curriculum reforms in formal and informal settings. Students interested in completing this concentration are required to complete the core course: EDUC 5P44 Curriculum Design, Implementation and Evaluation. They must also complete a minimum of two concentration electives. The concentration electives include: EDUC 5P41, 5P48, 5P55, 5P56, 5P59, 5V14 and 5V57. A minimum of 5 concentration courses will be offered each academic year; however, the offerings may change from year to year.
Educational Psychology: Teaching, Learning and Wellness
The field of educational psychology applies psychological theory, research and evidence-based practice to inform teaching, learning and wellness across diverse instructional contexts. Students in this concentration critically examine and critique cognitive, affective, and behavioural aspects of learners across the life span. Consideration is given to evidence-based instructional designs and learning strategies that promote wellness for all learners. To attain credit for completing this concentration students must successfully complete the concentration’s core course, EDUC 5P50 Foundations of Educational Psychology, and at least two other courses of their choice in the concentration. The Educational Psychology elective courses include: EDUC 5P31, 5P32, 5P33, 5P37, 5P38, 5P39, 5P45, 5P46, 5P47, 5P87, 5V40. The concentration’s core course is offered every year. Four additional courses in the concentration are offered each year on a rolling basis.
Pedagogy
The way in which educators engage in their practice can be reflective major pedagogical approaches that include behaviorism, constructivism, social constructivism, and liberationism as well as myths and misunderstandings. By critically examining Western, Indigenous, and critical pedagogical approaches, educators will be able to engage mindfully in diverse research-based practices to support learners across the lifespan within various contexts. To attain credit for completing this concentration, students must successfully complete the concentration’s core course, EDUC 5P08 Foundations of Pedagogy, and at least two additional courses within the concentration. The Pedagogy concentration electives include: EDUC 5P09, 5P10, 5P11, 5P14, 5P24, 5P42, 5P43, 5P54. The concentration’s core course is offered every year. Four additional courses in the concentration are offered each year on a rolling basis.
Social Justice, Power and Politics in Education
This concentration engages students in a critical analysis of theoretical, political, historical, and sociocultural perspectives that inform socially just approaches to education and schooling. To attain credit for completing this concentration, students must successfully complete the concentration’s core course, EDUC 5P00 Introduction to Social Justice, Power and Politics in Education. They must also complete a minimum of two concentration electives. The concentration electives include: EDUC 5P01, 5P07, 5P11, 5P15, 5P17, 5P20, 5P21, 5P24, 5P25, 5P62 and 5P64. A minimum of 4 elective concentration courses will be offered each academic year; however, the offerings may change from year to year.
Note: There are some courses that are cross-listed in more than one concentration. Each cross-listed course counts as one half-credit toward the degree requirement, and students may use a cross-listed course toward the completion of one concentration of their choice, but not more than one concentration.
Internationally Educated Student Pathway (ISP) - No new applications accepted
The MEd (ISP) is situated in two fields of specialization: Administration and Leadership in Education, and Teaching, Learning and Development. It is offered as a cohort program for full-time students only. Students typically begin the program in the summer term (July start date) and follow a prescribed program of study. All students in this program are registered in the Course-based Pathway. With permission from the ISP Steering Committee and the Graduate Program Director/Department Chair, a limited number of students may transfer into the MRP Research Pathway after they have successfully completed the fall term.
Administration and Leadership in Education
Students must complete ten half-course credits as well as EDUC 5N99, a non-credit course. The structure of the ALE field of specialization is as follows:
Summer term:
EDUC 5P99 Introduction to Studies in Education
EDUC 5N99 Graduate Studies in Education
Fall term:
EDUC 5P60 Constructions of Organization
EDUC 5P73 The Challenges of Educational Leadership
EDUC 5P92 Introduction to Educational Research
EDUC 5Q96 Experiential Learning in Education
Winter term:
EDUC 5P21 Comparative and International Education
EDUC 5P62 Politics, Power and Policy in Education
EDUC5P64 Ethics in Educational Decision Making
EDUC 5P72 Effecting Change in Education
Spring term:
EDUC 5Q97 Culminating Seminar in Education
Teaching, Learning, and Development
Students must complete ten half-course credits as well as EDUC 5N99, a non-credit course. The structure of the TLD field of specialization is as follows:
Summer term:
EDUC 5P99 Introduction to Studies in Education
EDUC 5N99 Graduate Studies in Education
Fall term:
EDUC 5P30 Development, Learning and Curriculum
EDUC 5P24 Socially and Culturally Situated Learning
EDUC 5P92 Introduction to Educational Research
EDUC 5Q96 Experiential Learning in Education
Winter term:
EDUC 5P21 Comparative and International Education
EDUC 5P42 Innovative Practices in Curriculum/Assessment (K-16)
EDUC 5P72 Effecting Change in Education
EDUC 5V30-5V70 Special Topics in Teaching, Learning and Development
Spring term:
EDUC 5Q97 Culminating Seminar in Education
Under exceptional circumstances, the Department may require the substitution of other relevant courses for those usually required.
Course Descriptions
Note that not all courses are offered in every session. Refer to the applicable timetable for details.
Students must ensure that prerequisites are met. Students may be deregistered, at the request of the instructor, from any course for which prerequisites and/or restrictions have not been met.
A selection of the courses listed below will be offered each term. Students should consult the schedule of course offerings published in the online MEd registration weblink: https://brocku.ca/registrar/guides-and-timetable/graduate-students
Courses may be cancelled in the event of insufficient student registration numbers. Selection of courses is usually made with a program consultant.
EDUC 5P00
Introduction to Social Justice, Power and Politics in Education
An interdisciplinary overview of the philosophical, sociological and literary pillars of pedagogical practice.
EDUC 5P01
Developing a Critical Language
Theoretical approaches to practical educational situations using a problem-based approach.
EDUC 5P05
Foundations of Adult and Postsecondary Education
Focuses on the roles, characteristics and diversity of learners across the lifespan and the contexts in which their learning occurs. A critical examination of the theories, principles, and practice of teaching and learning in global and Canadian contexts. Understanding the structures, power dynamics, governance issues, their influence on these practices, and their relationships to learning. Emphasis on a variety of perspectives for a critical and personal analysis of current issues in the field. This is the core course for the Adult and Postsecondary Education concentration.
EDUC 5P07
Contemporary Issues in Global Education
Identification, analysis and critique of contemporary and recurring social, economic, political and environmental issues within a global educational framework. Exploration of how issues apply to elementary and secondary curriculum and instructional practices.
EDUC 5P08
Foundations of Pedagogy
Illuminating the assumptions underpinning the Western, Indigenous, and critical pedagogical approaches. This is the core course for the Pedagogy concentration.
EDUC 5P09
Theories of Literacy
Historical analysis of literacy instruction as a continuously contested site of educational discourse.
EDUC 5P10
The Body as a Site for Knowledge
Examines scholarship on embodiment to understand how the body is inscribed by political, social and cultural factors encompassing health, gender, sexuality, dis/ability, class and geography. Considers ways of knowing in and through the body in relation to curriculum theorizing and inquiry.
EDUC 5P11
Culture, Identity, and Pedagogy: Advancing a Lived Curriculum
Examines the enactment of curriculum in educational contexts in relation to teachers and students. Analysis of multicultural and antiracist frameworks, theories and pedagogies that support equitable educational experiences.
EDUC 5P14
War, Gender and Learning
Exploration of the ways in which gender, war, and militarism interact with human learning processes and the associated implications for educators concerned with social justice.
Note: Completion of this course will replace previous assigned grade and credit obtained in EDUC 5V08.
EDUC 5P15
Developing a Personal Philosophy of Educational Practice
Critical analysis of concepts, principles and ideals that underlie contemporary education. Emphasis on the connections between educational visions and practices for the development of a defensible educational philosophy.
EDUC 5P17
Theoretical Orientations in Sociology and Equity Studies in Education
Analysis of the development of sociological studies in education, which address the social, economic and political concerns of diverse groups in Canada. Exploration of how the social construction of race, class and gender intersect to produce hierarchies in our stratified society.
EDUC 5P20
History and Philosophy of Education
Critical analysis of historical and contemporary theories and educational philosophies in light of current debates about purposes of education in pluralistic societies. Explore contemporary cultural contexts using alternative educational theories.
EDUC 5P21
Comparative and International Education
Cross-disciplinary study of international and intercultural issues in social context. Exploration of the implications for curriculum and pedagogical strategies in associated areas including Multicultural, Comparative, Global and Development Education.
EDUC 5P24
Socially and Culturally Situated Learning
Examination of contemporary theoretical and methodological perspectives that emphasize the social construction of learning and knowing. How these perspectives influence the ways that we understand the content and process of learning in individual and group settings.
EDUC 5P25
The Right to Education: Historical Frameworks
Explores the ideal of state-mandated and publicly supported education for all as a core pillar of democratic societies. This course is about critiquing the historical, philosophical and systemic underpinnings of contemporary schooling.
EDUC 5P30
Development, Learning and Curriculum
Overview and application of basic educational foundational theory to the types of decisions educators make before, during and after contact with students, colleagues, administrators and community members. Emphasis on a variety of perspectives for critical and personal analysis of current issues in the field.
Restriction: This course is available to ISP students only.
EDUC 5P31
Families, School and Community Collaboration in Education
Exploration of home-school-community relations from historic to contemporary perspectives. Through an examination and analysis of research and practice, an understanding of various strategies for engaging families and community members in students' learning is developed. Emphasis is on creating models to promote collaboration for student achievement and wellbeing.
EDUC 5P32
Learning and the Mind
Exploration of cognitive factors that influence learning including long and short-term memory, attention, and metacognition. Review of principles of explicit instruction and scaffolding. Participation in experiments related to memory, learning and strategic instruction.
EDUC 5P33
Development, Life-Long Learning and Meaning-Making
Critical understandings of developmental issues in education using life-span psychology and narrative methodologies. Exploration of professional aging and development using theoretical and practical approaches and implications for teaching and learning.
EDUC 5P34
Individuals, Institutions and Lifelong Learning in Higher and Adult Education
An exploration of higher and adult education roles, rights, responsibilities and expectations of learners, educators and administrators in the design, delivery, and accountability of and for educational services. Aspects of structure, function, and valuation are considered against the backdrop of change through globalization, population diversity, and contemporary relevance.
EDUC 5P35
Adult Teaching and Learning
Examination of theoretical foundations of adult teaching and learning, characteristics of adult learners in diverse contexts, and guiding principles for practice. Exploration of current topics including women as learners, technology, self-directed learning, andragogy and transformative learning. Designing, facilitating and evaluating adult learning activities.
EDUC 5P36
Critical Perspectives on Adult Learning
A critical examination of a variety of perspectives on adult education. Understanding and analyzing the conceptual frameworks that underlie adult education practices across a variety of contexts. Critical perspectives to personal practice and topics of interest.
EDUC 5P37
Developmental and Educational Issues in Children and Adolescents
Explores issues from child and adolescent developmental psychology. Develops a personal framework for understanding past, present and future educational experiences.
EDUC 5P38
Assessing Learners' Academic Difficulties
Participation in a supervised experiential learning opportunity with a client experiencing academic difficulties. Using formal assessments to determine client's areas of strength and potential improvement. Engaging in intake, report writing and debriefing.
EDUC 5P39
Understanding the Reading Process and Reading Difficulties
Exploration of the reading process and associated theories of reading ability. Examining factors that influence students' reading abilities and evidence-based practices that support the development/enhancement of these skills. Exploring topics of related interest.
EDUC 5P41
Early Childhood Education
Exploration of the research on the effectiveness of past and present program models of child development with the intent of designing curriculum for young children that encourages optimal growth.
EDUC 5P42
Innovative Practices in Curriculum/Assessment (K-16)
Examination of contemporary practices that bridge accountability and relevance based on learning/teaching principles. Exploration of curriculum alignment with an emphasis on assessment into instructional strategies.
EDUC 5P43
Invitational and Holistic Approaches to Education
Creative application of invitational and holistic theory to teaching, learning, and curriculum practices. Connecting theory to multiple intelligences, emotional intelligence and self-concept, interpersonal skills, integrated studies, collaborative learning and creative problem solving, and organizational strategies and democratic practice.
EDUC 5P44
Curriculum Design, Implementation and Evaluation
Examination of past and current curriculum design, implementation and assessment models from the perspective of students, teachers and administrators. Exploration of future directions in program design, implementation and evaluation. This is the core course for the Curriculum Studies concentration.
EDUC 5P45
Learning Difficulties in the Classroom: Diagnosis and Programming
Examination of major theories, research and instructional strategies developed for students with exceptionalities. Critical analysis of current perspectives and controversies on identification, intervention and causative factors. Exploration of effective intervention strategies through case study.
EDUC 5P46
Behavioural Disorders in the Classroom
Analysis of the behavioural disturbances of children and adolescents. Examination of biological, psychological, behavioural and cognitive models regarding etiology, diagnosis and interventions. Topics include oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, hyperactivity anxiety and depression. Case study analysis to connect theory to practice.
EDUC 5P47
Emotional Lives in the Classroom
Investigation of students' emotional experiences and self-knowledge through psycho-educational research, inclusive philosophies and educational practices.
EDUC 5P48
Science in the Curriculum
Analysis of K-16 science curriculum including current approaches. Emphasis on the use of learning technologies and instructional activities.
EDUC 5P50
Foundations of Educational Psychology
Explores issues of teaching, learning and wellness across diverse educational settings. This is the core course for the Educational Psychology: Teaching, Learning and Wellness concentration.
EDUC 5P51
Teaching and Learning in Higher Education
Critical examination of the theoretical foundations and processes, principles, and practice of teaching and learning in higher education. Exploration of topics including educational development; Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL); designing, facilitating, and evaluating teaching and learning in higher education; online and blended learning; reflective practice; and additional topics of interest.
EDUC 5P52
Contemporary Issues in Higher Education
Exploration of expectations, roles and stakeholder functions in relation to changing educational and professional environments in higher education. Topics include information and communication technology, distance learning, public accountability and performance indicators.
EDUC 5P54
Designing Curriculum to Develop Thinking Abilities
Analysis and application of past and current conceptions and theories on how to develop critical and reflective thinking skills across the curriculum.
EDUC 5P55
Mathematics in the Curriculum
Analysis of elementary and secondary mathematics curriculum including current approaches. Emphasis on major issues and trends.
EDUC 5P56
Technology in the Curriculum
Analysis of the impact of computer technology and the information age on society and schools. Examination of the integration of new technology (including microcomputers) and information-age skills into the curriculum.
EDUC 5P59
The Arts in the Curriculum
Examination of the contributions of educating through art, drama, music, dance and writing for meaningful learning. The cognitive, social, kinesthetic and problem-solving strategies used by creative persons.
EDUC 5P60
Constructions of Organization
Analysis of organizational theories as they relate to educational institutions. Emphasis on how people shape and are shaped by organizations and how reciprocal processes affect administrative and professional practice.
EDUC 5P62
Politics, Power, and Policy in Education
Examination of policymaking as a political process. Focus on the actors who negotiate educational policy and their conflicting and shared interests.
Prerequisite(s): For ISP students: EDUC 5P60
EDUC 5P63
Accountability and Education
Critical and historical examination of accountability. Influence of ideology and governance on educational practice.
EDUC 5P64
Ethics in Educational Decision Making
Exploration of the consequential nature of decision making. Analysis of the impacts of discretionary power, ethical frameworks and decision-making models on administrative practice.
EDUC 5P70
The Social Context of Administration
Examination of the role of educational administrators in perpetuating and/or disturbing social order. Focus on educational administrators' obligations and entry points into social justice policies, practices, and discourses.
EDUC 5P72
Effecting Change in Education
Analysis of mandated and emergent change in educational institutions. Focus on developing informed responses that balance stability and change for sustainable improvement.
EDUC 5P73
Challenges of Educational Leadership
Exploration of purposes and assumptions of leadership in educational contexts. Examining tensions and connections between leadership and management in administrative and professional practice.
EDUC 5P74
Life in Educational Organizations
Examination of interpersonal tensions and dynamics in educational settings. Focus on shared and contested norms and assumptions that affect growth, development, and practice of all organizational members.
EDUC 5P75
Financing Education
Examination of political economies of education through theories and practices of resource acquisition and distribution. Analyzing linkages among interests, resources, decisions, outcomes and political motives.
EDUC 5P76
Living with(in) the Law
Examination of issues, interests and judgments in education case law. Analyzing how legal decisions influence administrative and professional practice.
Special Topics
EDUC 5V01-5V18
Special Topics in Social and Cultural Contexts in Education
Seminar for students wishing to study a specific problem area in Social and Cultural Contexts in Education.
EDUC 5V14
Understanding 21st Century Literacy Education: New, Digital, and Design Literacies
Past, new and emerging strands of literacy education in the classroom, policy, and within pedagogy. An examination of critical literacy, new literacy studies, family literacy, multimodality to multiliteracies, digital literacies, and design literacies.
EDUC 5V30-5V70
Special Topics in Teaching, Learning, and Development
Seminar for students wishing to study a specific problem area Teaching, Learning, and Development.
EDUC 5V40
Theory of Mind and Learning Across the Lifespan
Engaging with critical theory and cutting edge research to explore how sociocommunicative routines in the classroom, and language development enable new modes of cognition and emotion that in turn support complex school-based social interactions.
EDUC 5V57
Foundations of Environmental and Sustainability Education
The history and conceptual foundations of environmental and sustainability education from Canadian and international educational contexts. Focus on key concepts, critical thinking, and dispositions important to an environmentally sustainable future.
EDUC 5V80-5V89
Special Topics in Administration and Leadership in Education
Seminar for students wishing to study a specific problem area in Administration and Leadership in Education.
Educational and Academic Foundations
EDUC 5N99
Graduate Seminar in Education
A non-credit graduate seminar that focuses on issues for graduate students may encounter while developing their programs of study.
Note: This course is required for all students.
EDUC 5P99
Introduction to Studies in Education
Education as a field of study and multiple ways of knowing. Review of current educational theories, trends, and issues. Provides a foundation for research literacy.
EDUC 5V93
Education, Democracy and the Public Good
Examination of current and historical perspectives on the relationship between democracy, education, and the public good. Issues include populism, authoritarianism, political ideology, radicalism, political apathy, academic freedom, teacher freedom of speech, teacher neutrality, indoctrination, and the extent to which education is a public good - and what that might mean.
Research
EDUC 5P82
Quantitative Methods in Educational Research
Examination of quantitative approaches used in educational research including experimental designs, correlational studies, and surveys. Review of statistical procedures and skills for analyzing and interpreting data.
Prerequisite(s): EDUC 5P92 or permission of the instructor.
EDUC 5P92
An Introduction to Educational Research
Interdisciplinary analysis of research methods used in education with an emphasis on basic research concepts and their application.
Note: This is a required course for all students; failure to obtain a minimum grade of 70% in this course could result in required withdrawal from the program.
EDUC 5P95
Qualitative Methods in Educational Research
An examination of research approaches using a variety of qualitative methods including case studies, interview strategies, action research approaches, biography, ethnography and historical methods. Combined designs will be discussed as ways of gaining novel insights into educational events.
Prerequisite(s): EDUC 5P92 or permission of the instructor.
Skill-Building and Professional Development
EDUC 5P84
Exploring Approaches to Professional Development
Exploration of theoretical and experiential approaches to professional development. Personal set of "living" standards of practice, appreciative inquiry, ongoing study groups, and narrative approaches. Analyzing the role of professional development for teacher development, learning organizations, and educational reform.
EDUC 5P87
Evaluating Teaching Effectiveness
Examination of methods for evaluating teaching at all levels of education. Issues related to student ratings and teacher performance appraisal as determinants of teaching quality, and relationship between teaching effectiveness and student achievement.
EDUC 5P94
Advanced Writing Seminar
An interdisciplinary approach to scholarly writing and publishing in higher education. Exploration of the stages of the writing and publishing cycle in relation to personal interests, and a sense of self as writer. Recommended for students preparing to write their theses, MRPs, or culminating papers.
Individualized and Experiential Learning Courses
EDUC 5P96
Educational Internship
A one-term field experience in which students are supervised by a faculty member and apprentice with a field mentor to achieve specific learning goals.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of Graduate Program Director on the basis of a written application.
Note: Students are required to find a faculty member and a field mentor and submit a proposal form for approval. Students completing the five half-credit research-based thesis route are restricted to completing one of either EDUC 5P98 (Independent Study) or EDUC 5P96 (Educational Internship) as either a concentration or general elective course.
EDUC 5P98
Independent Study in Education
Specialized study on an individual basis under the direction of a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of Graduate Program Director on the basis of a written application.
Note: Only one independent study course may count towards the MEd degree. Students completing the five half-credit research-based thesis route are restricted to completing one of either EDUC 5P98 (Independent Study) or EDUC 5P96 (Educational Internship) as either a concentration or general elective course.
EDUC 5Q96
Experiential Learning in Education
Students learn, apply, and reflect on educational work and learning in a Canadian context. Students connect theory to practice and contribute to wider learning communities in an experiential setting.
Restriction: Only available to ISP students
Final Project Courses
EDUC 5D91
Major Research Paper in Educational Studies
Individual investigation or analysis of an issue/area in contemporary educational practice. Topics must be approved by a faculty advisor who will also supervise and guide the student during the preparation of the document.
Prerequisite(s): All required core courses and electives, including EDUC 5P92 or permission of the Graduate Program Director.
Note: The major research paper proposal application form must be submitted and approved by the MEd Program prior to registration in EDUC 5D91. Completion of this course will replace previously assigned grade and credit in EDUC 5Q91.
EDUC 5K95
Thesis in Educational Studies
The preparation and public defence of a thesis which will demonstrate candidate capacity for independent research, integration of knowledge, and depth of understanding.
Prerequisite(s): All required core courses and electives, including EDUC 5P92 or permission of the Graduate Program Director.
Note: The thesis proposal application form must be submitted and approved by the MEd Program prior to registration in EDUC 5K95. Completion of this course will replace previously assigned grade and credit in EDUC 5F95.
EDUC 5Q97
Culminating Seminar in Educational Studies
Culminating seminar integrating theory, practice and accumulated knowledge. Final project can be presented in multi-modal ways.
Restriction: Registration restricted to students completing degree requirements and enrolled in the course-based route.
Prerequisite(s): All required core courses and electives, including EDUC 5P92.