The field of educational psychology has gained form from a variety of learning and developmental theories. In this course, multiple theories of development, motivation, behavior, and learning will be examined in depth. The question, “how do humans learn?” is at the heart of these theories, and students are invited to construct, deconstruct, and reconstruct their personal theories of learning throughout the course. Students will also consider what constitutes learning. A variety of topics including the effectiveness of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators; student engagement; the nature of intelligence and creativity; the relationships between teaching and learning; differences in learning among diverse groups; and issues of testing, assessment, and accountability will be considered. In considering all such topics, a common theme continues to emerge. How do psychological principles illuminate processes of learning and teaching? In this course, we consider how theory, research, and practice inform each other in order to improve the efforts of educators. The activities and assignments for this course will be tailored to fit the program in which the student is enrolled.

This course will focus on methods used to conduct research in education. Topics covered will include: organizing, analyzing, and interpreting data, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, qualitative research in education, and ethical issues related to educational research. An emphasis is placed on interpreting existing research for application purposes as a classroom teacher.

This course will focus on developing a complete research proposal that includes an introduction to the research problem, a comprehensive literature review, and a methodology section. The required proposal will detail a research design utilizing either quantitative or qualitative methods suitable for implementation as a classroom teacher and representing graduate level work. Prerequisite: EDUC 5331

This course is designed to develop and improve the students’ knowledge and understanding of the basic legal parameters that impact organization and control of the Texas and American school systems.

This course examines theories of second language acquisition and practical application of theories to second language teaching and learning. Students will be able to recognize the processes through which languages are acquired in both formal and informal contexts. This course will also consist of an interdisciplinary survey of theory and practice, paying close attention to how the application of all aspects of language acquisition relate to institutional learning.

This course examines how to manage human resources effectively in the dynamic legal, social, and economic environment currently impacting educational institutions. This course also examines the concepts and theories that form the foundation of public school finance in America. Special consideration will be given to the following topics: formulation and implementation of human resource strategy; job analysis; methods of recruitment and selection: techniques for training and development; performance appraisal; compensation and benefits; and the evaluation of the effectiveness of human resource management frameworks and practices; taxation, revenue sources, legislative issues,risk management; school bonds; salaries; and indebtedness.

This course focuses on how skills and abilities in leadership and management can be developed and applied by individuals in order to make a difference in organizations, communities, or societies. The course will also present concepts and specific techniques in school-community relations involving the development and maintenance of purposeful programs of communication and collaboration between school personnel and the community.

This course surveys current trends and issues in various sports and exercise settings. Emphases will be placed upon analyzing modern research and contemporary issues related to the preferred occupations of the students enrolled in the course. Discussing assigned topics, organizing and giving topical presentations, examining principles related to sports and exercise fields, and applying those principles to program planning, administration, and supervision will be emphasized.

This course will offer insight into the role of sports in the marketing world’s ongoing effort to connect with consumers. Students will be introduced to and become familiar with the terms and tools relevant to leadership in the sports industry, including an examination of the difference between the use of sports for marketing and the use of marketing in sports. The course will focus on five basic marketing concepts and their innovative application in the business of sports. In addition, the course will cover basic management techniques for a variety of leadership positions within Kinesiology careers.

This course examines various aspects of sports preparation and coaching behavior. Emphases will be placed upon analyzing various coaching behaviors and styles, examining and discussing the ideal styles to use in diverse settings, and preparing workouts, practices, and game plans dependent upon those styles. The role of the sports or exercise coach as a leader and role model will also be heavily emphasized. Discussing assigned topics, organizing and giving topical presentations, examining principles related to sports and exercise fields, and applying those principles to program planning will be emphasized.

This course examines leadership in a variety of sport and exercise settings. Emphases will be placed upon specific settings based upon those enrolled in the course. Exploring the various factors in applied leadership and the discussion of ethical implications are among the most-important objectives. Discussing assigned topics, organizing and giving topical presentations, examining principles related to sports and exercise fields, and applying those principles to program planning will be emphasized.