The MSEd Reading program is a 33 sh program, including a minimum of 24 sh of reading courses. This orientation also suggests that learning is supported in an environment that encourages risk taking and the personal and social construction of knowledge. Within this orientation, teachers are expected to provide instruction guided by observations of students using language processes in a variety of situations. In order to develop in teachers the abilities and skills required to provide instruction that reflects this philosophy, the MSEd Reading program combines elements of traditional course organization and collaborative learning experiences. In addition, a required component of the program is a practicum experience in which the graduate student provides individualized instruction for a student who experience special problems in reading.
Emphasis is placed upon instructional decision-making.
Graduate students are expected to be reflective about their teaching, their students' learning, and about the literacy processes in which they are involving their students. The sequence of the courses RED 501, RED 525, RED 505, RED 506, is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop a broad theoretical base, to have personal experiences with the literacy process, and to develop insights into appropriate ways to facilitate the development of literacy in their students. RED 510 Reading Practicum further expands the graduate students' competency in providing appropriate instruction to those students for whom literacy learning is a problem. Options exist for the completion of the program. Electives offer alternatives to students who may choose from courses offered in the Reading program or other departments in either the School of Education of College of Arts and Sciences.