Mission and Goals

Mission Statement

The mission of the Master of Arts in Education degree program is:

1. to increase the competence of teachers and reading specialists based on a liberal arts core;
2. to produce leaders in those areas of education; and,
3. to enable them to engage in action research and scholarly inquiry, in order to enhance their performance and ultimately the academic performance and constructive behavior of students.

Program Goals

Master teachers:

1. develop a thorough understanding of curriculum theory and best instructional practices;
2. possess rich and multi-faceted knowledge of the subject matter, the students they teach, and how students learn; 
3. understand the dynamic nature of schooling and how to interact professionally and ethically with all constituents;
4. understand how to develop and carry out research projects which directly affect student learning;
5. use a variety of research-based methods and developmentally appropriate materials and activities to insure that all students learn;
6. use multiple research tools to analyze, evaluate, and change teaching practice to ensure student learning;
7. reflect on their practice and assume responsibility for their professional growth, performance, and involvement as an individual and as a collaborative member of the learning community.