Program Learning Objectives

Through their participation in this program, candidates will be able to:

• ??? Explain, compare, contrast, and critique the theories of reading that have significant impact on teachers? and researchers? beliefs and articulate their personal theory of reading and explain how it affects their classroom instruction and research interests;
• ??? Identify and explain theories of language and literacy acquisition and use this knowledge to create a rich language instructional context for students and work collaboratively with other educators to engage in inquiry and share understandings
• ??? Use various assessments to determine a struggling reader?s strengths and areas of continued need
• ??? Plan and write a case study report which includes an analysis and interpretation of multiple reading assessments, the identification of student strengths and areas of need, and a plan for further literacy instruction
• ??? Develop several research-based strategies and activities, using a variety of appropriate reading materials, for K?12 learners
• ??? Support classroom teachers and paraprofessionals in the development of instruction based on assessment evidence, theory, and research
• ??? Participate in professional study groups with classroom teachers to read, discuss, and interpret research and apply theory/research to practice
• ??? Design and implement an action research project

Program Overview:

The Reading Education program is designed for teachers who already hold a teaching license at any level within the P?12 range who wish to advance their knowledge, skills, and dispositions in the field of reading education. The program is designed to prepare candidates with advanced preparation in the teaching of reading to students with reading difficulties and to further their development of advanced skills and knowledge needed for leadership and supervision of reading programs in public school systems. The program requires extensive fieldwork with students of all ages who require additional support in the development of their literacy skills as well as with the conduct of professional development with teachers in the field. Upon completion of this program, candidates will also be eligible to apply for the K??12 Reading Endorsement to be added to their teaching license, which meets the requirements of Ohio?s Third Grade Guarantee.

Opportunities for Graduates:

Opportunities for graduates may include teaching, coaching, and leading school reading programs. Reading Specialists/Literacy Coaches may also serve as a resource in reading and writing for educational support personnel, administrators, teachers, and the community, provide professional development based on historical and current literature and research, work collaboratively with other professionals to build and implement reading programs for individuals and groups of students, and serve as advocates for students who struggle with reading.

Many of these professionals have a specific focus that further defines their duties, such as serving as a teacher for students experiencing reading difficulties, as a reading or literacy coach, as a coordinator of reading and writing programs at the school or district, or in several combinations of these roles.