Ed.D. in Special Education

This course introduces essential resources and tools available to foster academic success in advanced graduate programs. Students will identify their unique strengths and challenges and explore strategies for personal and professional growth.

This course focuses on defining and practicing reflective leadership. Students will analyze leadership characteristics, engage in reflective practice, and plan for future growth as a leader.

This course provides a foundational understanding of leadership theories, principles, and practices. Students explore a variety of leadership styles to develop their leadership identity.

This course examines basic principles in applied statistics. Topics include data types, organizing data, graphing techniques, probability concepts, measures of central tendency, normal and skewed distributions, and understanding the area that covers normal distributions. Understanding, applying, and interpreting the principles of simple hypothesis testing methods are also covered. The course is designed to provide an introduction to statistical applications that can be applied in real-world settings.

This course provides learners with the foundation and practical application of research methods and designs. Emphasis will be placed on evaluating research literature and aligning the components of qualitative and quantitative methods and designs. Students will explore theoretical frameworks for research studies and dissertations. Ethical practices in research will also be explored.

This course provides students with an introduction to different types of quantitative research methods and statistical techniques for collecting and analyzing quantitative data. Topics include the nature of research, sampling, hypothesis testing, variance (F-test), two samples t-test (independent and dependent), multiple samples test (ANOVA and repeated measures), assessment reliability and validity, threats to validity, and components of a concept paper (prospectus), proposal, and dissertation. The course concludes with a comprehensive overview, including answers students need to know and be able to explain in a proposal or dissertation defense.

Students will compare qualitative research designs and application to real-world issues. Topics include data collection and analysis, as well as ethical issues in qualitative research.

This course examines the importance of scholarly writing in your leadership practice, the foundation of how to write in a scholarly mode, and research strategies to support your doctoral writing.

Students prepare, defend, and deliver the final presentation of their dissertation. Final dissertation approval and final completion of their doctoral portfolio are also expected.

This is a workspace for Ed.D. candidates to work on dissertation chapters collaboratively with their dissertation chair and committee members.

Students develop the following components under supervision of the course faculty member: benchmark concept paper, doctoral pre-candidacy application, and doctoral pre-candidacy approval.

This course is designed for students to complete Chapter 3 of the dissertation proposal. Final approval of Chapter 3 by the course faculty member and the dissertation chair is required for successful completion.

This course is designed for students to complete Chapter 2 of the dissertation proposal. Final approval of Chapter 2 by the course faculty member and the dissertation chair is required for successful completion.

This course is designed for students to complete the Dissertation Proposal. In addition to completing Chapters 1-3, this course is designed to support students in obtaining DRR and IRB approval. Final approval of the Dissertation Proposal by both the course faculty member and dissertation chair is required for successful completion.

This course is designed for candidates to complete Chapter 4 of the doctoral dissertation in which they conduct the IRB-approved research study and collect and analyze the data. Final acceptance of Chapter 4 by the course teacher of record (TOR) and the Dissertation Committee is required for successful completion. Pre-requisite(s): RES 6541

This course is designed for candidates to complete Chapter 5 of the doctoral dissertation in which they interpret the data findings from their research study and draw conclusions based on the results. Final acceptance of Chapter 5 by the course teacher of record (TOR) and the Dissertation Committee is required for successful completion. Pre-requisite(s): RES6551

This course examines pedagogical principles of reading intervention through the synthesis and application of current research findings. Learners will investigate the diagnosis of reading disabilities, reading assessment strategies, and intervention principles. Struggling readers benefit most from intensive interventions that connect theory, research, and classroom practice. Students in this course will gain experience utilizing a data-based decision-making process and evidence-based instructional models to individualize and adapt reading instruction and provide targeted support for learners.

This course highlights how technology and classroom design can be used to differentiate instruction. Assistive technology that can assist various learners, including students with disabilities, will be examined. Learners will investigate Universal Design for Learning (UDL) foundations and principles. The unique nature of each learner will be discussed, along with the way accommodations create learning experiences that maximize each student's ability to learn and progress. Students will analyze how assistive technologies can increase educational access and improve achievement for all individuals. Students will explore types of assistive technologies and resources, including but not limited to augmentative communication systems, mobility systems, and systems of information presentation and physical spatial design.

In this course, students investigate differentiated instruction integration strategies grounded in research and theory. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the reasons and assumptions underlying differentiation and methods to identify key indicators in a learning environment. Procedures for analyzing and applying differentiated instruction to improve learning outcomes for exceptional learners will be examined. Students will advance their knowledge, skills, and practice for effectively implementing differentiated instruction across settings. Emphasis will be placed on response to intervention, formative assessment, and the development of strategies and interventions that target exceptional learners.

In this course, trends in policy, law, and recent legal findings that have implications on Free and Appropriate Education, Least Restrictive Environment, and procedural safeguards are examined. The legal and civil rights of students receiving special education services are discussed in the context of the Office of Special Education Programs of the U.S. Department of Education, as well as in the context of each state's monitored progress on Part B and Part C indicators of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Monitoring of special education services compliance will be discussed and current practices in state districts will be examined.

This course covers methods and materials used in assessing and evaluating students eligible for special education services. Students will examine the principals needed to understand standardized assessment and the rationale for using curriculum-based measurement (CBM) within the broad context of special education programming. Students will analyze the development and utilization of specific assessments for instructional and placement decisions. Students will evaluate components critical to writing and maintaining IEPs, individual goals and the use of accommodations and modifications. Finally, students will explore the need for and the use of transition goals in planning instruction, related services, community experiences, and the acquisition of daily living skills as well as how to conduct a functional vocational evaluation.

In this course, participants learn about issues and best practices related to partnering with families of students with disabilities. Family-systems theory and a family-centered approach will be examined. The course will explore effective programs linking schools, parents, and the community with resources before, during, and after students transition out of school. Participants use current, relevant, research-based evidence to support how special education leaders communicate and collaborate with family members and other professional stakeholders.

This course addresses the unique characteristics of students on the autism spectrum and explores the history of research and practices in this field. Participants investigate current trends, issues, and research-based strategies for teaching, managing, and promoting social skills, and proactive social interactions in autistic individuals. Various aspects of communicative behavior and the needs of learners on the autism spectrum are discussed. Participants propose evidence-based strategies for creating an inclusive classroom environment that meets the specific needs of these students.

This course assists students in developing rigorous, appropriate curriculum and instruction. Differentiated instruction and thematic, interdisciplinary unit planning are emphasized. Using a curricular framework, students plan, evaluate, reflect on, and adapt curricula experiences that build successful learning environments for all learners, including English language learners.

This course focuses on the major theories, strategies, and applications utilized in P-12 standards-driven learning environments. Participants review and apply current literature and educational research studies concerning standards-based curriculum, implementation strategies and tools.

Educational assessments provide useful information on what students know and can accomplish. This course examines the purpose of various categories of assessment and tools of assessment, given at different organizational levels. Growth in assessment literacy will be developed while investigating appropriate feedback methods based on assessment data.

In this course, students will analyze strategies crucial to the design and implementation of a school-wide or district-wide leadership initiative to support literacy development. Students will explore methods to improve a comprehensive range of literacy skills guided by research and current best practices. Specific principles and theories of reading instruction are compared and evaluated to identify the best methods to support various learning needs. Students explore the scientific research base underlying different models of reading instruction, technology, integration, and assessment.

This course promotes the concept of leaders serving as role models of professional development for their staffs to achieve higher levels of performance within the organization. To do so, leaders must utilize effective strategies, programs, and services based on data-driven decisions and the needs of stakeholders in the organizational community. Emphasis is placed on the impact of relevant, high-quality, job-embedded, differentiated, technology-integrated professional learning opportunities aligned to organizational goals. The course also prepares leaders to serve as advocates for sufficient preparation, time, and support for colleagues to work collaboratively in job-embedded professional learning.

The course focuses on the evaluation and utilization of appropriate technology integration into curriculum and instructional design to meet the educational needs of 21st century learners. Through an examination of historical trends in technology and current methods, students will evaluate and provide examples of technology that meet the definition of authentic learning. Students will engage in critical inquiry to explore issues related to responsible technology use, social media and ethical standards related to the selection and evaluation of materials and content to enhance learning.

By exploring current trends in early childhood education, students examine public policy, research, professional development relevant to classroom practices, and program management. Students will apply guiding research practices currently utilized in the field. The connection between theory and emerging information will help to maintain relevance for the profession.

This course examines classic and modern theories of child development and applications to real world settings. Students relate the theoretical foundations which guide key elements of early childhood educational practices to curriculum design, play, attachment and guidance.

Through the formation of collaborative partnerships, roles across multiple early childhood settings are investigated. Theories and practices which guide relationships with families, community organization and advocacy organizations will highlight the leadership skills necessary to establish and maintain connections relevant to supporting the field of early childhood education.

Focused on early childhood developmental issues, this course includes formal and informal approaches to assessing young children while diagnosing potential concerns which lead to informed instructional and intervention choices. Choices in curricula are aligned to needs to enhance student achievement.

This course focuses on the role of advocacy and leadership for early childhood practitioners. Students gain knowledge on different levels of advocacy and how this supports students and families in the field. This course prepares students to take on leadership roles related to advocacy and professional development opportunities relevant to current issues in early childhood education.

This course will examine current research focused on language and literacy development in early childhood. Concepts in the course will address developmental stages, instructional strategies, and factors that contribute to foundational language and literacy skills. The course will also address how to support emergent language and literacy skills with children from various backgrounds and strengthen the home-school partnership.

This course is tailored towards analyzing the impact of statutory and regulatory compliance on institutions, with a focus on enhancing analytical skills to grasp the complexities affecting higher education in today's globalized world. Students will explore the interplay between law and policy through the use of case studies, partnerships, and community relationships to provide a framework for managing an organization's governance.

The course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to manage resources effectively in order to promote institutional success. The course covers three main areas of resource management: human resources, financial management, and data utilization. Students will learn to manage human resources effectively by building strong working relationships with stakeholders, developing effective leadership strategies, and creating a positive institutional culture.

This course examines how student perspectives impact their college experience and how these insights can be utilized to drive positive changes. Student affairs significantly shape the relationship between adult learning and instructional outcomes, depending on the function and service provided. Through the lens of various leadership theories, students will delve into personnel issues, student support, success and retention, and assessment methods that inform decision-making.

This course delves into critical issues, concerns, and emerging roles and functions that are redefining the landscape of higher education. Through this course, students will explore societal shifts and their relevance to higher education. Moreover, we will examine the trends in technology and instructional delivery that are shaping the future of higher education, providing a framework for forecasting possible developments in the field.

This course explores higher education administrators' essential roles and responsibilities. The curriculum investigates critical functions, societal shifts, and technological trends transforming higher education. Through in-depth analysis, students will gain insight into how emerging roles reshape higher education's foundations. Additionally, the course covers functions and decision-making processes in operations, financial management, human resources, marketing, and enrollment. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education administrators in today's rapidly evolving landscape.

This course examines systems and processes for planning the development of programs, evaluating existing programs, and ensuring accountability for program success. Students will learn how to implement program and process plans through development and evaluation practices that establish accountability measures for organizational leaders.

This course is about evidence-based learning and teaching practices that will elevate the quality of instruction. Students will incorporate principles of educational equity, culturally responsive pedagogy, and meaningful opportunities to engage in collaboration with learners to sustain long-term success and promote high expectations.

This course connects the realities of every day instructional leadership to empower teams through cycles of collaboration, innovation, and transformation. Students explore the power of instructional leadership within their current professional setting and recognize the characteristics and skill sets essential to the success of a school and/or district.

This course focuses on strategies to empower teams through customized and creative professional learning experiences. Students will explore principles of collaboration, empowerment, authentic engagement, and use creative skills to conceptualize meaningful interactive learning experiences to help team members shift current practices and attain successful outcomes. Additional learning exercises focus on using data to identify training needs, developing customized professional learning programs, implementing progress monitoring skills and techniques to accelerate learning in a wide range of content areas and accountability measures.

This course emphasizes how instructional leaders can build and sustain cultures of achievement and accountability to facilitate transformational reform and continuous improvement cycles. Students develop an understanding of accountability standards focused on equitable, data-informed strategies to effectively promote higher levels of achievement and performance in educational and organizational settings.

This course examines how leaders create and sustain cultures in which strategic and transparent decision making lead to impactful organizational change and explores a variety of philosophical dispositions and techniques to engage in strategic decision making aligned to an organization's goals and values. Students evaluate the implications of decisions and actions and obtain insights from stakeholders leading to positive change and increasingly effective outcomes.

This course introduces policy analysis and governance, from theoretical and practical perspectives, including how individuals organize for common purposes and design, implement, analyze, and evaluate policy. Students will examine how policy decisions emerge and how the values of public, nonprofit, and private sector leaders and institutions affect decisions and implementation.

Students will compare theories of teaching and learning with applications to online instruction. Content includes emerging technology and use of Open Educational Resources.

Students will critique research on social presence and best practices for connecting online with students or colleagues, as well as best practices for social media use within education organizations.

Students will implement and assess the concepts of Universal Design for accessible online courses and compare models of instructional design.

This course examines the various types of online assessments and evaluations of courses, instructors, and programs. Using digital tools, students will develop assessments and evaluations for online learning environments.

Hardware and software use in an educational environment. Students will research various hardware and software that is available for Instructional Technology. They will see how it can impact their lessons. They will then use these opportunities to differentiate instruction including accessibility for all.

Students will explore the various realms of social media, streaming, virtual reality, handheld devices, and apps that help the field of Instructional Technology.

In this course, students will explore prominent trends and issues in literacy practices. Foundational theories and historical trajectories in literacy best practices will be examined and compared to current trends in the literacy field. Students will investigate complex issues that affect learners, as well as construct research topics to promote best practices in literacy. Students will critique policies, standards, and guidelines in literacy education. Students will design a final research-based project to address a current need in the literacy field.

In this course, students will connect technology and literacy skills to meet the needs of 21st-century learners. Students will examine various forms of technology resources and collaborative tools to assess the effectiveness in improving literacy skills. They will analyze literacy development, writing, comprehension, critical thinking, and engagement in learners who are typical and atypical. Students will design a project to demonstrate the effectiveness of various forms of technology in the promotion of literacy. They will also critique the strengths and limitations of literacy methodologies and technological tools. Upon conclusion of the project, students will provide suggestions to inform curricula within organizations and in their current or future roles as educational leaders.

In this course, students will evaluate the role of integrated curriculum to promote literacy development. This course analyzes current methods used to prepare learners to understand and engage with ideas that cut across multiple disciplines. Students will investigate four pedagogical approaches to addressing the issue of teaching students to read and write in the academic content areas: 1) cognitive, 2) sociocultural, 3) linguistic, and 4) critical thinking. The strengths and limitations of each approach will be assessed to construct a broadened, integrated perspective of literacy. Students will create integrated literacy unit and analyze the connection to best practices in the field.

In this course, students will examine research-based assessment tools, intervention strategies, and protocols centered on literacy development. Utilizing research on systematic instructional practices, students will develop supports and identify essential skills, strategies, and concepts that promote differentiated instructional practices in the classroom. Students will learn how to choose and create appropriate literacy assessments, as well as analyze best practices for integrating assessment and intervention in response to outcomes in order to combat challenges in reading development.

This course prepares students to be leaders that create and implement sustainable literacy programs that benefit all students. Literacy leaders will investigate evidence-based programs and strategies relative to the big ideas of literacy- phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and reading comprehension- for student achievement and school improvement. Additionally, students will develop skills necessary for making effective decisions regarding learners' literacy growth, teachers' professional development, and stakeholders' shared vision of a comprehensive and inclusive literacy program. Students will learn critical components to assemble a comprehensive literacy program committee that will evaluate the developed program's efficiency and effectiveness with raising literacy skills and comprehension.

The course engages learners in analyzing district- and school-wide approaches to enhancing fluency and vocabulary instruction. Through the lens of evidence-based leadership, students will explore policy, coaching strategies, and curriculum evaluation to support large-scale literacy improvement efforts.

This course examines key theoretical frameworks related to culture, social norms, beliefs, values, and ideologies that shape health-related decision-making. Students will explore sociological influences on health behaviors and how these decisions impact other aspects of life. Through research and critical analysis, students will study factors such as perception, attitudes, awareness, social cognition, and interpersonal dynamics. The course offers a foundation for understanding and responding to complex health behavior patterns.

Students will research and explore interactions between health factors as they influence lifestyle choices including social, political, economic, and personal. With the focus on practical application, students will research and examine potential interventions and strategies for overcoming barriers and the ethical implications for professionals practicing in health education. They will research theoretical concepts, practices, and principles of health education.

As students study leadership in health education, they will utilize foundational approaches to guiding and educating individuals within the school and community settings. They will research and use data for decision making in their school and community. Relational skills are also evaluated as an example of how specific settings impact options and how a professional stance is established through ethical application of the laws governing healthcare practices.

As technology is an integral part of the public health care system, students will research ways to deliver, analyze, and interpret data, including informatics/ bioinformatics, clinical research, consumer and public health statistics. They will then learn how to teach and train the staff to use the different technology, helping to develop protocols to be established within the organization. These protocols will relate to compliance issues as well as inform stakeholders of their importance. Through research and discussion, the students will be guided to provide the appropriate selection of technology with the targeted population in mind.

This course examines the role of finance and budgeting in public and private organizations and their impact on public health education programs. Students will explore topics such as sources of revenue, fundraising, and fiscal allocation techniques. The implications of public and private financial policies on public health education programs will be examined.

This course examines community health assessment and planning using evidence-based analysis to inform strategy and decision making. Local, state, and national policy as well as the impact of health organizations on community health will be explored. Students will learn how to identify health assets and needs in a community using a variety of community health models.

This course provides a holistic overview of historical and current issues and trends impacting science education in today's global society. Emphasis is placed on examining viewpoints and approaches to integrated science education to examine research-based integrative models and strategies for improving student learning. Participants will examine current STEM education initiatives related to policy, method, and engagement. Critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and writing skills are emphasized. While using an integrated approach, this course spotlights content-rich components dedicated to biology, chemistry, and physics.

The course will examine didactic strategies of pedagogy, andragogy, multiple intelligence theory, social learning theory, and exchange theory to foster the innovative engagement of learners. Emphasis will be placed on strategies related to the differentiation of instruction.

This course will examine integrating digital resources into the integrated science learning environment. Participants will explore digital resources and develop strategies for effectively integrating technology with didactic strategies to address the needs of learners and enhance learning.

This course examines best practice in developing curriculum to foster student learning in the field of mathematics and science. Emphasis is placed on curriculum theory, curriculum design, development of instructional manipulatives, and the implementation and evaluation of curriculum for didactic improvement.

Building scientific understanding in students is essential to the STEM field. This course is designed to help students develop a deeper understanding of skills, including the role of critical questions and essential concepts. Students break down common misconceptions in STEM as well as build on existing skills of observation, analysis of communication, assessments informing instruction, and understanding the role society plays in fostering scientific literacy and knowledge.

The Capstone Experience is designed for candidates to demonstrate and document the impact of their knowledge and competencies gained throughout and as a result of the doctoral focus of study STEM Leadership. Students create a professional portfolio based on work created during their program to highlight mastery of specific academic outcomes and demonstrate the impact of the focus on study on the professional field.

This course provides an understanding of the historical, political, social, cultural, and instructional concepts and issues that affect learners from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds in a variety of settings. Students will research and review local, state, and federal policies regarding entitlement and appropriate services for second language learners. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of language development and acquisition and design research-based support and instruction for second language learners. U.S. and international program models are analyzed and current theories of Second Language Acquisition (SLA), bilingualism, and socio-cultural theories are explored for their pedagogical implications. Students will develop assessment instruments, select materials, and learn how to monitor learning outcomes to support and enhance the development of second language learners.

Students in this course examine assessment approaches for second language learners within the larger framework of historical, social, cultural, and political contexts. Students will evaluate assessment tools and research historical theories to analyze the best practices in assessment of second language learners. Utilizing a variety of theoretical models related to second language acquisition and academic achievement, students 1) analyze the ways that second language students are diverse, 2) discuss assessment practices, and 3) evaluate existing instruments for second language learners. Students examine and review relevant state or national standards for content matter learning and language proficiency and examine how those are assessed in mandated, large-scale assessment and in professional assessments (traditional and alternative). Students in non-traditional settings will examine how to align assessment methods with current professional standards for the field. Students will learn how to target certain learning outcomes by using critically evaluated materials.

This course focuses on the methodology for teaching language and content to second language learners. Participants research and critically examine historical and current ESL and bilingual education program models, theories of ESL and bilingual instruction and literacy, first and second language acquisition, and transfer of skills and content knowledge between first and second language. Relevant federal, state, and local learning and assessment standards are researched, reviewed and applied to their instructional settings. Participants research and use various methods, approaches, and techniques, as well as discuss the selection, use, and evaluation of books, multimedia, and other materials in the first and subsequent languages to support second language learners across multiple professional settings.

This course addresses growth opportunities for leaders as they increase their awareness of the need for advocates in the area of second language instruction in a variety of settings. Students will research policy and laws at the local, state, and national levels and reflect upon how they impact the second language learners in their current professional setting. Emphasis is placed on building the knowledge and skills required to share information on policies and trends with colleagues; to work collaboratively with others to advocate for second language learners and instructor rights, needs, and resources, and to represent and advocate for second language learners both within and beyond their current instructional settings.

This course covers the following essential dimensions of linguistics and the acquisition of language: language and the brain, first and second language acquisition, major components of linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics), cognition and learning, and communicative competence. The course examines second language learners and their proficiency in oral, reading, and writing skills in English as well as the importance of the home languages as a foundation for learning a second language. Students get an overview of socio-cultural, psychological, and political variables that play a part in second language acquisition, which will translate to greater understanding of second language learners as they navigate the community and professional settings.

Students will evaluate the impact of culture on society and the educational system, as well as its role in addressing the needs of students from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. This course will explore the dynamic processes of acculturation and cultural conflict in learning a second language. Students will examine the role of culture in an educational system and how ethnolinguistic groups contribute to the dynamics of the classroom. Students will analyze behavioral expectations and learning styles of students from different backgrounds and how classroom dynamics and teacher expectations shape perceptual judgments of learners. Students will create culturally relevant instruction to further second language development and the academic success of various groups and create ways to foster collaborative and dynamic learning environments.

The concept of multiple perspectives and practices has transformed the environment and atmosphere across many organizations in different industries. These principles have been integrated into organizational strategies, leading to a competitive advantage. This course explores advanced principles of engagement, participation initiatives, and greater effectiveness across organizational planning. At the end of the course, students will gain tools and expertise to support these principles within their professional practices.

Leaders are responsible for transforming organizations under conditions of uncertainty, competing stakeholder demands, and rapid environmental change. This course examines theory-grounded approaches to organizational transformation, integrating change frameworks, environmental analysis, and stakeholder strategy into executive leadership work. Through applied research and a sustained organizational case, students will investigate the dynamics of resistance, readiness, and misperception that shape transformation efforts, evaluate the conditions that enable or stall sustainable change, and formulate evidence-based strategies that align stakeholders and produce lasting enterprise impact.

This course explores the application process for competitive and noncompetitive grants and alternative funding sources, such as foundation grants and local, state, and federal grants. Students apply strategies to manage the grant-writing process, assess the qualities of effective grant proposals, research the best funding opportunities, and identify and complete a grant application suitable for their organization.

Leading and managing public and nonprofit organizations is based on transforming good intentions into an actionable plan based on data-informed decision making. Students form conclusions on how organizations achieve goals and formulate strategies to achieve positive outcomes. This course is also designed to assess major issues and challenges leaders face in the public and nonprofit fields.

This course investigates the roles of stakeholders in various public and nonprofit organizational structures and how the type of organization may impact collaboration and collective action. Students explore the stakeholder's role in building and sustaining organizational effectiveness for the purpose of serving others.

Board and volunteer development provide lifelines for most public and nonprofit organizations. Board members are a special type of volunteer, helping to guide the direction of public and nonprofit entities, promoting the organizations in the community, and ensuring the mission of service to others is fulfilled. Learning how best to work with the board and other volunteers is a critical aspect of public and nonprofit leadership. This course covers the fundamentals of board and volunteer recruitment and development.