English Education, Secondary

Learner Development and the Science of Learning provides WGU students with a deep understanding of the science behind learning processes. This course covers a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to the science of learning, including cognitive development, learning theories, neuroscience in education, and the impact of developmental milestones on learning. Students will explore how these concepts apply to learning environments and educational levels, from early childhood through adolescence. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and the practical application of learning science principles, equipping students with strategies to enhance learning outcomes and learner engagement. This course aims to empower educators to create more effective, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences for all learners. Candidates will evaluate science learning theories in classrooms.

The Education Professional prepares WGU students to excel in the exciting and impactful profession of being an educator. Additionally, the course addresses the importance of continuous professional development and ethical considerations in teaching through the School of Education (SOE) Professional Dispositions and Ethics. Upon completion of the course, WGU students will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to continue their professional journey of becoming effective, inspiring, and adaptive educators, capable of making a significant impact in the lives of their students and the broader educational community. Students will also start a research-based professional portfolio. (This is not a transferable course.)

Practices for Inclusive Classrooms empowers educators to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. This course focuses on the principles and strategies of personalized learning, emphasizing the need to value and support the unique needs, interests, and abilities of each learner. The course provides a foundation for learner characteristics of learners with exceptionalities and other unique learning needs. This course helps candidates develop skills for partnering with parents and families, to advocate for all learners with exceptionalities, including those impacted by provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Multitiered systems of support are addressed to prepare candidates for their future classrooms as they seek to select appropriate instructional practices and interventions to best serve their learners. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments.

Establishing Positive and Engaging Learning Environments teaches educators how to foster supportive and productive classroom climates. This course delves into the key elements that contribute to creating and maintaining a positive learning atmosphere, such as effective communication, classroom norms and routines, and positive behavior supports. Emphasizing the importance of a safe and inclusive environment, the course explores methods to promote student engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect among learners. It also addresses the role of mental well-being in learning, exploring trauma-informed and restorative practices. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications including case studies, Establishing Positive and Engaging Learning Environments teaches learners how to develop and sustain environments that not only enhance academic performance but also support the holistic development of students. Candidates will apply theoretical concepts to analyze a classroom environment.

Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for Meaningful Learning is a dynamic course designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of instructional planning and the execution of educational strategies that foster meaningful learning experiences. This course provides candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging and standards-aligned lessons that meet the needs of all learners. This course also covers a range of high-leverage instructional practices to increase student learning, engagement, and achievement. Participants will learn to utilize assessments to inform instruction, adapt teaching to accommodate all learners, and incorporate technology to enhance learning. Candidates will reflect on research-based instructional practices.

Monitoring Student Learning Through Assessment enhances students’ skills in evaluating learner progress and educational outcomes. This course provides an in-depth exploration of various assessment techniques, including formative and summative assessments, standardized tests, benchmark assessments, progress monitoring, and alternative assessment strategies. This course teaches students to design effective assessment tools, interpret data to inform instruction, and provide meaningful feedback to learners. This course also provides a foundation of data analysis that supports educators’ need to understand data and present data to stakeholders. It also explores online and digital assessment tools. This course requires students to design an assessment based on evidence-based practices.

Technology for Instruction and Online Pedagogy is an innovative course designed to equip educators with the skills to effectively integrate technology in their teaching practices. The course also covers best practices for online pedagogy, assessment and feedback, collaborative learning, and the use of multimedia and interactive elements to enhance learning experiences. With a focus on practical application, educators will leave the course ready to create and facilitate compelling, high-quality online learning experiences that meet the needs of today’s learners. This course also provides a foundation for supporting digital literacy in K-12 education. In addition, this course prepares candidates to use technology to improve professional productivity and effectiveness in areas like data analysis and data representations. Candidates will apply evidence-based practices to adapt instruction to meet student needs.

Student Teaching II is the final part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. The course offers a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Student Teaching I, candidates receive ongoing feedback through observations and a final evaluation. This evaluation assesses activities' relevance and cultural engagement, the effectiveness of teaching each student, the ability to analyze and adjust teaching methods, and the willingness to explore new materials and methods. Successful completion of Student Teaching II is a crucial step in the licensure process, as it determines eligibility for licensure as a professional educator. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into professional development topics such as professional growth opportunities, ethical decision making, and self-care. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.

Student Teaching I is the first part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. This course provides a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate and reflect upon professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies rooted in students' learning and developmental patterns. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Advanced Clinical, candidates will receive ongoing feedback through observations and evaluations. Feedback will encourage candidates to reflect on their commitment to professional practices as educators, analyze and adjust teaching methods, and explore new teaching materials and methods that are culturally relevant. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into communication and collaboration, accepting feedback, creating positive learning environments, and technology and online learning. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.