6 semester credits

Designing curriculum with rigor, relevance, and results requires broad understanding of the key concepts behind each of these attributes. In this course, education professionals examine the contribution of learning theory to what defines rigor as they explore alignment of standards and design models as well as the role of collaboration between educators and the needs of an ever-increasing diverse student population, including English-language learners, special education educators, gifted students, and students of poverty. As leaders of learning, education professionals examine the connection between relevant curriculum and global trends, social-emotional, and character development, and the integration of technology for student engagement. In addition, they gain an understanding of what constitutes results that acknowledge the demands of accountability from multiple constituents, such as parents, community members, school administrators, and government oversight. They also gain practice analyzing, evaluating, and applying quantitative research methods appropriate to data-driven planning and decision making.