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Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership

Course List

Curriculum Requirements

The EdD in Educational Leadership program requires concentrations in Higher Education Administration or K-12 Education and the satisfactory completion of 60 semester credit hours distributed as follows:

  • Core Requirements: 24 Credits
  • Research Requirements: 12 Credits
  • Concentration Requiremenets: 12 Credits
  • Dissertation: 12 Credits
  • 2 Residencies

All courses are 3 semester credits in length.

CORE REQUIREMENTS (24 CREDITS)

E7034 Critical Analysis of Problems and Issues in Education

Problems and issues that relate to the present and the future of public and private education are the core of the course. They are identified in a forum that brings experience and current methodology together to address problems that relate to the specific roles of the course participants. Long-range and short-range problem-solving strategies, directed toward increasing the scope of curriculum options and expanding the broad applicability of instructional resources, are addressed in terms of current situational models.

W7000 Advanced Academic Study and Writing

This foundational doctoral course provides advanced academic study and writing processes for analyzing and evaluating current research articles, literature reviews, and dissertations. Emphasis will be placed on APA style guidelines and university publication requirements. Students will develop a perspective as scholarly practitioners, focusing within their specific discipline and program. Providing students the information and skills to navigate and successfully complete their doctoral programs and dissertations is the primary goal of this course.

E7134 Comprehensive Planning and Implementation

This course focuses on concepts and strategies associated with effective planning in educational and human services organizations. A decision-oriented evaluation model is also considered. Examples demonstrate how data can be used as input for a comprehensive plan. Strategies for the coordination of curriculum and instruction delivery systems into an overall management plan are presented. Specific administrative levels of responsibility are defined. An evaluation component of comprehensive planning is outlined in both objective and subjective terminology.

E7245 Teaching and Effective Learning Strategies

The use of best practices and sound research on helping all students to learn more successfully is the core of this course. Issues related to human development theory, proven learning strategies, modern technologies; barriers to learning and concern for diversity are studied for their impact on effective teaching and learning. The development of lifelong learners is emphasized. A field experience is part of this course.

E7331 Curriculum Theory and Design

This examines the theoretical assumptions underlying curriculum design. Students clarify definitions, explore conflicting conceptions of the curriculum, and develop strategies for constructing, developing, and implementing curricula that are consistent with specific theoretical principles. Students also examine the impact of research upon curricula, various methods for implementing specific differentiated curriculum plans, and the basis for evaluating curricula in terms of design and delivery.

E7335 Advanced Supervision of Curriculum and Instruction

This seminar analyzes the relationship between current practice and research in the supervision of curriculum and instruction. Specific administrative theory related to the supervisory role are examined and used to evaluate current and recommended practices in program management and classroom instruction. Topics include the concepts and techniques necessary for establishing a research-based, comprehensive program for staff supervision; establishing performance standards; diagnosing staff needs; matching supervision with staff needs; creating the supervising climate; and using the results effectively.

E7834 Writing for Research

This course provides a solid foundation necessary for academic writing. Topics include formats, literature reviews, citations, problem statements, research proposals, research questions, hypotheses, critiques of journal articles, evaluation of dissertations and dissertation abstracts, and writing for journals. The course is completed when the student, after completing all prior assignments, submits a finished prospectus for a research study. Includes Residency II, which focuses on the successful completion of the dissertation, including the following: the completion of the plan of studies, in-depth library research, dissertation formatting and style, mind maps, committee meetings, Institution Research Board, and Dissertation Guides. Students will also have an opportunity to observe dissertation defenses and hear presentations from advanced doctoral students.

RESEARCH REQUIREMENTS (12 CREDITS)

There are 12 credit hours in research courses needed for the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership Program.

R7001 Introduction to Research Methods

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R7031 Methods and Analysis of Quantitative Research

This seminar focuses on the structure and process of descriptive research across the disciplines of business, education, and behavioral science. It presents the concepts of relationships, correlations, and descriptive paradigms. Upon completion of the seminar, the student will be able to design a descriptive research study. The student will be able to utilize correct descriptive sampling techniques, collect and organize data systematically, adhere to acceptable reliability and validity standards in measurement, apply appropriate descriptive methodology, perform descriptive statistical analysis including mean, mode, median, correlations, chi square and t-tests with matched groups, and fully present findings. The student will also master the language of descriptive research, distinguish between various methodologies, conduct literature surveys that provide the foundation of investigation, critique descriptive research, review the dissertation research process, and construct effective descriptive research proposals. Computer applications, logistical issues, and ethical considerations are examined.

R7035 Methods and Analysis of Qualitative Research

This course introduces the assumptions, theories, and processes of qualitative inquiry. The purpose of this course is to provide advanced graduate students with the theoretical foundations necessary to understand qualitative inquiry, and to enhance their abilities to conduct qualitative research and evaluation.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Satisfactory completion of all requirements in the program of study developed in consultation with the advisor
  • Satisfactory completion of 60 credit hours beyond the master's degree, including 48 credit hours of coursework, 12 credit hours of dissertation, field experiences, appropriate certification examinations, and Internship requirements.
  • A minimum grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0), and a grade of "B-" or better in all required courses
  • Satisfactory performance on the Comprehensive Examination
  • Completion of these requirements within seven years of matriculation into the program
  • A completed Petition to Graduate submitted to campus administration

HIGHER EDUCATION CONCENTRATION

Students are required to choose one of the following:

E7136 Higher Education in the United States

Theories and models of institutional arrangement, as well as governance and management processes, are considered in this course. Planning and assessment methods are also examined.

E7336 The Adult Learner

This course considers the instructional theories and motivational techniques that may be employed to enhance education for adult students. The role of the teacher as a diagnostician, planner, and facilitator is also considered.

E7345 College Teaching

This seminar aims to develop in students the essential concepts and skills for successful college teaching. Beginning with an exploration of today's higher education environment and a problem-solving skill framework for college teaching and learning, students then work toward practical solutions to learning, proactive planning, self-awareness, and self-assessment, the course guides students to formulate a teaching style that capitalizes on their individual personality and talents.

E7233 Organizational Communication Systems and Internship Seminar

This course focuses on effective communication in organizations. This course will include relevant theories, technologies, leadership, teamwork, diversity, global organizations, and ethics. In addition to learning about issues embedded in organizational communication systems, students will complete a 7-week internship. (60 hour internship required)

K-12 EDUCATION CONCENTRATION

Students are required to choose one of the following:

E7233 Organization Comm. Systems and Internship Seminar

This course focuses on effective communication in organizations. This course will include relevant theories, technologies, leadership, teamwork, diversity, global organizations, and ethics. In addition to learning about issues embedded in organizational communication systems, students will complete a 7-week internship. (60 hour internship required)

E7233 Organizational Communication Systems and Internship Seminar

This course focuses on effective communication in organizations. This course will include relevant theories, technologies, leadership, teamwork, diversity, global organizations, and ethics. In addition to learning about issues embedded in organizational communication systems, students will complete a 7-week internship.

NOTE: All internship projects, activities, and assignments may be completed through the student's current place of employment, or an equivalent accessible workplace environment.

E7337 Special Topics in Curriculum and Instruction

This seminar provides an opportunity for advanced graduate students to explore selected topics, issues, and problems in curriculum and instruction with the guidance of a faculty member.

E7340 Curriculum Design (K-12)

This course focuses on the systematic design, implementation, and evaluation of instruction for grades K-12, examining both the knowledge and product approaches to systematic curriculum design and instruction. The course considers curriculum and instructional design models and evaluation methods and their practical application to primary and secondary education.

TECHNOLOGY CONCENTRATION

Students are required to choose one of the following:

E7801 Instructional Technology Planning and Management

This course provides participants with a basic understanding of the instructional applications of modern technology. Participants will gain an understanding of the philosophy and purposes behind instructional technology as well as strategies for its integration into the classroom. Major topics include the synthesis of concepts, knowledge and skills of the instructional technologist and distance educator, future trends in the field, strategic planning for the professional, refining roles, and responsibilities of the leader in the field.

E7802 Integrating Technology into the Classroom

Practical integration of technology into the curriculum, with emphasis on content-appropriate planning, teaching, assessment, and management strategies, evaluation of educational technology tools, and the design of technology-enhanced environments for new teaching and learning roles. This course will be applicable for both K-12 and higher education environments. Learners will apply constructivist learning theory to planning of technology-integrated lessons. Students will apply databases, spreadsheets, the internet, web design, robotics, and programming software to a variety of academic settings.

E7803 Instructional Design

This course provides students with an in-depth exploration of the instructional design process, from analysis through evaluation and implementation, and includes practice in all phases. The course focuses on design issues including course planning, selection of instructional strategies, assessment of instruction, and course revision evaluation and revision. Students practice the design of effective instruction based on principles from instructional design theory. This course will be applicable for both K-12 and higher education environments.

E7805 Distance Learning Technologies and Teaching Methodologies

This course examines the concepts, technologies and issues related to the development and delivery of distance education. The learner will explore the theory and history of distance education, current technologies in distance learning, components beyond the course website of a distance education system, course design and development, technology and media, instruction and interaction, and policy and administration in distance education.

RESEARCH ELECTIVE

Students must choose one of the following:

R7037 Survey Techniques

This course provides students with skills necessary for the survey research process. This includes familiarity with questionnaire design, including framing the question, sample size, reliability and validity in survey construction, and the strengths and limitations of the numerous methods used in survey research.

R7038 Action Research Methods

The course advances the proposition that the action research approach is a useful paradigm in the field and worthwhile model for dissertation work. Historical, philosophical and theoretical foundations will be discussed, but practical application will be the primary focus simultaneously with learning. This is consistent with an action research approach. Collaboration and group work is also a hallmark of action research so students will demonstrate their abilities to design, diagnose, plan, implement, observe, and reflect in cooperation with classmates. The various roles and skills necessary to be an effective action researcher will be discussed, as well as important issues related to empowerment, contextualization, ethical considerations, and validity.

R7036 Program Evaluation Methods

This course emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge and skills in program evaluation methodology. Six alternative evaluation approaches are surveyed, with a focus on developing a management/ decision-oriented evaluation plan. This course also serves as a practicum for the conceptualization and development of a doctoral research study that employs a program evaluation model.

DISSERTATION

There are 12 credit hours in Dissertation needed for the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Instructional Leadership Program.

E7935 Dissertation — Education

The dissertation is offered in four, 3-semester-credit blocks, each lasting one semester.

Block I
  • Preparation of Chapters 1 and 2, Introduction and the Review of Literature
  • Includes Residency II, which focuses on the successful completion of the dissertation, including the following: the completion of the plan of studies, in-depth library research, dissertation formatting and style, mind maps, committee meetings, Institution Research Board, and Dissertation Guides. Students will also have an opportunity to observe dissertation defenses and hear presentations from advanced doctoral students.
  • Final formation of dissertation committee and approval of prospectus
Block II
  • Preparation of Chapter 3, Methodology
  • Proposal defense
  • Application to the campus Institutional Review Board
Block III
  • Preparation for Chapter 4: Results of Data-gathering and Analysis
Block IV
  • Preparation of Chapter 5, Discussion, Conclusions, and Recommendations
  • Completion of final dissertation document, including appendices, reference list, acknowledgements, dedication, and table of contents
  • Submission of document to Turnitin®
  • Approval of the final dissertation document.
  • Final oral defense of the dissertation (open to faculty, student, public).
  • Completion of final copy editing for binding and placement in the Library.

NOTE: Students who do not complete in four semesters must apply for a dissertation extension.