The Diverse Learner 6 s.h. A major outcome of the graduate reading program is to develop professional educators who can create a literate environment conducive to literacy acquisition and reinforcement for all types of learners. Underpinning theoretical models of reading is a thorough knowledge of language development, cognition, principles of learning, and components of the reading process. The program extends and expands this knowledge through required reading courses and through careful selection of program electives. The teacher understands how students differ in their approaches to learning and creates instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.
Students acquire proficiency with a variety of formal and informal assessment techniques.
Administration, analysis, and interpretation of assessment measures provides quantitative and qualitative information that can be used in planning and implementing appropriate instruction. The Diverse Learner 6 s.h. The teacher uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage student development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills. Students acquire a variety of instructional strategies for use with disabled readers and apply these instructional strategies within field experiences in READ 6421and READ 6422 and with adult learners in READ 6431 and READ 6432. The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation.