Teaching in Higher Education

Program Overview

The Teaching in Higher Education Certificate Program at Robert Morris University is a 9-credit, 3-course program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to teach in diverse higher education settings. The program emphasizes the integration of technology into teaching, curriculum development processes, and the unique nature of higher education classrooms. Graduates are prepared for teaching positions in various higher education institutions, including community colleges, four-year colleges and universities, and online learning environments.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Teaching in Higher Education Certificate is a 9-credit, 3-course non-degree program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to teach in diverse higher education settings. The program draws from the curriculum of the existing Instructional Management and Leadership (IML) Ph.D. doctoral program, focusing on theoretical and practical aspects of teaching adult learners in college and university environments.

Objectives:

• Develop the ability to plan and execute effective teaching in various modalities, including traditional face-to-face, asynchronous online, synchronous online, and hybrid formats.
• Integrate technology into instruction effectively.
• Understand curriculum development processes specifically tailored to higher education.
• Gain knowledge of the unique nature and needs of higher education classroom settings.

Description:

This program emphasizes the integration of technology with instruction, curriculum development processes, and the unique nature of higher education classrooms. Participants will gain foundational knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to teach in a variety of settings, with the option to pursue a Ph.D. in IML upon completion.

Outline:

Program Format:

The program consists of three courses delivered in two formats:

• On-ground traditional face-to-face: Courses meet in a physical classroom setting.
• Asynchronous online cohort model: Courses are delivered online through the university's learning management system (LMS), allowing flexibility for participants.

Courses:

EDML8110 Applied Instructional Technology:

This course explores the effective use of technology in teaching and learning within higher education settings.

EDML8170 Instructional Leadership/ Curriculum Planning:

This course focuses on the principles and practices of curriculum development and leadership in higher education.

EDML8280 Teaching in Higher Education:

This course delves into the specific challenges and strategies for teaching adult learners in college and university settings.

Delivery Mode:

All courses are offered in both on-ground and online formats.

Program Duration:

The program can be completed in three consecutive 8-week terms: one in the summer and two in the fall semester.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Assignments, projects, and examinations will be used to assess understanding of the course material.
• Presentations: Participants may be required to deliver presentations to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
• Reflective Writing: Reflective writing assignments may be used to analyze and evaluate teaching experiences.

Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding: Demonstrating a strong grasp of the theoretical and practical aspects of teaching in higher education.
• Application of skills: Effectively applying the learned skills to real-world teaching scenarios.
• Critical thinking and analysis: Demonstrating the ability to critically analyze teaching practices and reflect on their effectiveness.
• Communication skills: Effectively communicating ideas and information both orally and in writing.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Providing foundational knowledge and key concepts.
• Discussions: Encouraging active participation and the exchange of ideas.
• Case studies: Analyzing real-world scenarios and applying theoretical frameworks.
• Technology-based learning: Utilizing online resources and tools for interactive learning.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members from the IML department, who are actively involved in teaching and research in higher education.

Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes the integration of technology into teaching and the development of skills for teaching adult learners in diverse higher education settings.

Careers:

Career Paths:

The program prepares individuals for teaching positions in various higher education institutions, including:

• Community colleges
• Four-year colleges and universities
• Private and public institutions
• Online and traditional learning environments

Career Opportunities:

Potential career opportunities include:

• College professor
• Adjunct professor
• Instructor
• Lecturer
• Faculty member
• Educational consultant

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter the competitive field of higher education with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to be successful teachers and future leaders in the field.

Other:

• Participants who successfully complete the program can continue on to earn their Ph.D. in Instructional Management and Leadership.