Program Overview
The MEd in Teacher Leadership: Special Studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education is a rigorous, content-focused program that allows in-service elementary and middle school teachers to explore relationships among science, engineering, and mathematics through a transdisciplinary approach to integrated STEM. Teachers in the program use cutting edge technology and innovative tools to build a Professional Learning Network as they develop philosophies regarding issues of authenticity, equity, and achievement in STEM.
This convenient master’s program enables teachers to earn a degree while maintaining teaching commitments and leads to a state add-on endorsement in “Instructional Leader: STEM (PreK-6)”.
Key Features
- Integrated STEM Education: Experience a holistic approach to STEM, combining real-world applications and contemporary teaching methods to engage students.
- Professional Learning Network: Build connections with peers and faculty to foster collaboration and continuous professional growth.
- Add-on Certification: Receive a state add-on endorsement in “Instructional Leader: STEM (PreK-6)”.
- Flexible Schedule: Classes meet once per week after school hours, allowing for a balance between work and education.
- Research & Inquiry: Collaborate with esteemed faculty in action research projects that contribute to your professional development and the field of STEM education.
Teacher Leadership Emphasis
Teacher Leadership Emphasis supports already certified beginning teachers and experienced educators in developing a sound common grounding in aspects of teaching and inquiry. The program emphasizes advanced professional development studies, which support experienced teachers as accomplished professionals and instructional leaders.
#11
Best Curriculum and Instruction program by U.S. News & World Report
How to Apply
How to Apply
Information on admissions and application to this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website.
Use specialization code MCSTE.
“I had always been interested in STEM Education, but this Master's program from the University of Maryland gave me new meaning to that popular, four letter acronym. The course work challenged me to reflect and iterate upon my practice, while my cohort peers and professors provided rich discussions and feedback. After earning my degree, I was able to successfully transition into a full-time STEM teacher position, engaging students in real-world problem-solving lessons that I began to develop during my time in the program. I highly recommend the Teacher Leadership: Special Studies in STEM Education program to any educator looking to take the STEM teaching and learning in their classrooms to the next level!”
Requirements
Program Requirements
Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to align with the MSDE STEM Standards of Practice, the Next Generation Science Standards, the Common Core State Curriculum, and the National Board Professional Teaching Standards, ensuring that participants receive a comprehensive and contemporary education that is directly applicable to their practice while also building their professional networks. All teachers who complete the program will receive an add-on endorsement from MSDE as a STEM Instructional Leader (COMAR 13a.12.02.29).
Each course in the program has been designed to reflect the MSDE STEM Standards of Practice as well as the core ideas and practices of the Next Generation Science Standards and the Common Core State Curriculum. Our program opens the space for teachers to explore relationships between science, engineering, and mathematics through the ‘meta-discipline’ of STEM in order to develop a holistic understanding of the world. Teachers in the program are using cutting edge technology and innovative tools to build a Professional Learning Network as they develop personal philosophies regarding issues of authenticity, equity, and achievement in STEM.
Program Structure
The M.Ed. In Teacher Leadership: Elementary STEM Education is composed of ten courses for a total of thirty graduate-level credit hours.
- Teaching & Learning in the Physical Sciences
- Biological Principles in Learning & Teaching
- Introduction to Engineering Design
- Developing a Professional Teaching Portfolio
- Innovations and Problem Solving in the Mathematics Classroom
- Applications of Technology in Instructional Settings
- Embracing Diversity in STEM Education
- Conducting Research on Teaching in the STEM Disciplines
- Mathematical Patterns & Predictions
- Educational Leadership in STEM Education
Teaching & Learning in the Physical Sciences: A course or two about physical science cannot possibly cover all topics one may end up teaching. The point of this course, therefore, is not just to help teachers understand some key topics but also to give them the skills needed to independently learn new material. In the process of learning science, teachers will have the opportunity to refine their ideas about what science is, what it means to learn and do science. Teachers participating in this course will develop:
- deep conceptual knowledge of topics in physics including motion, floating/sinking, and the nature of matter;
- the ability and propensity to approach the learning of new topics in physical science through tangible sense-making and coherence-building; and
- the ability and propensity to participate in scientific argumentation, which includes engaging with the ideas of others, defending claims with evidence, and seeking coherence between conflicting ideas
Introduction to Engineering Design: Designed by faculty in the Engineering Department, this course will provide an introduction to engineering design and human-centered design through three design projects. Each project will include a written design brief and product design reports, project planning and team management, and rapid prototyping. Participants will engage in discussions around sustainability, globalization, and engineering ethics. Teachers will also be guided through focused exploration of the intersections of scientific and mathematical inquiry and engineering design.
Problem Solving and Innovative Thinking in the Mathematics Classroom: Our society’s opportunities and demands are constantly changing. In order to take advantage of these opportunities and be successful in the face of unpredictable changes, students need learning and innovation skills such as creativity and problem solving as well as a support system for developing such skills. These skills are not only critical for a rapidly changing world, they are the keys to ensuring a fair and inclusive education, which is one of the most powerful levers available to make society more equitable. Mathematics is critical to the development of these skills. Therefore our mission is to re-imagine the mathematics learning environment, rethink mathematics instruction, and re-consider the mathematics curriculum so that we open the door to the development of powerful problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
Contact
Contact
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