Undergraduate Certificate in Education Technology (EdTech)

Program Overview

Westcliff University's Undergraduate Certificate in Education Technology (EdTech) equips educators with the knowledge and skills to integrate technology effectively into online and blended learning environments. Through hands-on experience and exploration of the latest EdTech trends, students develop the ability to design engaging learning experiences that foster student engagement and achievement. The program prepares graduates for careers in instructional technology, online learning development, and other education-related fields.

Program Outline

Students gain the knowledge and skills to navigate and effectively engage students in online and blended learning environments. The program explores the latest trends in EdTech research and learning theories while providing hands-on experience analyzing how technology can enhance the learning experience.

• Apply, manage, and evaluate various theories, methods, and technologies in the classroom.
• Design, develop, and evaluate technological tools across diverse educational environments.

Outline:

• EDU 421 Foundations of Educational Technology (3 credit hours): This course introduces the historical context of educational technology, examines the social, cultural, and ethical implications of technology in education, and explores various theories of learning and their application to technology integration.
• EDU 422 Best Practices in Educational Psychology (3 credit hours): This course examines core principles of educational psychology and their application in the context of online and blended learning environments.
Topics covered include motivation, learning styles, assessment, and effective teaching strategies.
• EDU 423 Online Assessment and Evaluation (3 credit hours): This course dives into various assessment and evaluation methods used in online and blended learning environments.
• EDU 424 Adaptive Technology for Differentiated Instruction (3 credit hours): This course explores the use of adaptive technologies to provide personalized learning experiences for diverse learners.
Students learn to identify and utilize various adaptive technologies, design differentiated instruction, and assess the impact of technology on student learning outcomes.
• EDU 425 Blended Learning (3 credit hours): This course examines the principles and practices of blended learning, exploring various models and strategies for effectively integrating online and face-to-face instruction.
Students gain hands-on experience designing and implementing blended learning activities.
• EDU 426 Capstone Practicum (3 credit hours): This culminating course provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills by designing and implementing a technology-integrated learning project in a real-world educational setting.
Students reflect on their experiences and explore future directions for their professional development.

Assessment:

Assessment methods likely include a combination of:

• Formative assessments: These ongoing assessments provide regular feedback on student learning and understanding throughout the program.
Examples include quizzes, assignments, class discussions, and peer reviews.
• Summative assessments: These assessments evaluate student learning at the end of each course or project.
Examples include essays, presentations, and final exams.
• Portfolio development: Students may be required to develop a portfolio showcasing their work and demonstrating their mastery of the program's learning objectives.

Note:

Specific assessment methods and criteria may vary based on individual courses within the program.

Teaching:

Teaching methods:

The program likely utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and promote active engagement. This may include:

• Lectures: Providing direct instruction on key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Facilitating discussions and group work to explore different perspectives and encourage critical thinking.
• Workshops: Offering hands-on activities and opportunities to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings.
• Online learning modules: Providing interactive and flexible learning experiences with access to resources and support outside of class.

Faculty:

The program likely features qualified faculty with expertise in educational technology, instructional design, and online learning. These faculty members bring real-world experience and theoretical knowledge to enrich the learning experience.

Careers:

Graduates of the Undergraduate Certificate in Education Technology (EdTech) are prepared for various career opportunities in the field of education, including:

• Instructional technologist: Design and manage technology-based learning experiences in various educational settings.
• Online learning developer: Develop and implement online courses and learning modules.
• Educational technology consultant: Advise schools and organizations on integrating technology effectively into their educational programs.
• Teacher: Apply technology effectively in the classroom to enhance student engagement and learning.
• Curriculum developer: Design and develop curriculum materials that incorporate technology.

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and responsible use of technology in the classroom.
• Students gain valuable experience working with diverse technologies and learning how to adapt their teaching strategies to meet the needs of different learners.