The M.Ed. in Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy (MTLA) provides advanced study for teachers interested in becoming leaders in their schools, districts, and the profession. It prepares them to develop a deep understanding of issues and policies shaping teaching and learning and provides skills necessary to advocate for students, public schools, and the teaching profession. The program focuses primarily on improving educational practices, policies, and learning environments for children and youth, especially those considered at-risk of failure. The program provides a base for all students to better:
- understand and apply advanced theories that inform their teaching and work in diverse communities
- use and critique multiple forms of research and inquiry
- think systematically about their own practice, provide support for other professionals, and communicate clearly with their students, other educators, and parents
- advocate for students and the profession
- understand the relationships among educational policies and practices, local context, and learners
The Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy M.Ed. program develops the skills, pedagogy, and understanding of educators who either want to improve their own practice or who seek positions as teacher coaches, curriculum specialists, or lead teachers. In these roles, teachers are able to mentor and support colleagues who struggle to work effectively with children who are under-performing. A set of core courses (18 credit hours) provides students a common focus and support for a culminating research-based capstone. Students also choose an 18 credit hour concentration in one of the four concentrations: Curriculum and Instruction, Diverse Learners, New Literacies, and Science and Mathematics.