College Courses (sample)
EDUC 220: Educational Psychology
This course introduces the student to the psychological foundations of educational theory, research, and practice. Topics include learning theory, learner characteristics, intelligence, creativity, motivation, measurement and evaluation, and models of teaching for all learners. It offers a broad base of content focused on human learning, making it appropriate for students of education, psychology, or as an elective course for students in any field.
Designed and taught by me 2004 to present at Macalester College, St. Paul, MN
EDUC 230: Community Youth Development
Young people learn and grow in out-of-school times and spaces as well as in traditional classrooms. Further, developmental-ecological theory underscores the importance of social contexts in the healthy development of children and youth. This course examines the multiple systems affecting the developmental process of current young people in the U.S., particularly as defined in the field of out-of-school-time education. Assigned scholarly readings, reflective writing, and in-class meetings are complemented by a field placement of the student’s choosing. Appropriate field placements will engage students in a variety of youth development capacities, including centers for research and program development, social service organizations, and agencies aimed at improving youth-related policies. Central to the work of this course will be an examination of how current American youth development programs and policies both impact and are impacted by diverse children and youth, focusing on categories of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, and national origin.
Designed and taught by me 2009 to present at Macalester College, St. Paul, MN
EDUC 294: Social-Emotional Learning
Many educational researchers and practitioners believe that social-emotional learning is a critical “missing piece” for student success. This course will provide an overview of social-emotional learning (SEL), considering relevant theory, implementation and outcomes. We will critically examine the role of social-emotional learning for students across age levels and in both classrooms and out-of-school-time settings. Focal topics include emotional intelligence, personal well-being, caring communities, conflict mediation, and developmental relationships. We will also consider the origins of SEL, policy implications, and many, many examples of SEL in practice.
Designed and taught by me 2015-2018 at Macalester College, St. Paul, MN
EDUC 194: Motivating Learners
This course explores the critical yet complex area of educational psychology that addresses human motivation: What motivates us to learn, to change, and grow? Why do some students give up while others prosper in response to specific circumstances or environments? What can teachers, mentors, and students themselves do to support and sustain active engagement in learning? We will study the overarching psychological theories of human motivation with specific attention academic achievement. We will examine developmental and individual differences in motivation, as well as differences by context and group membership. Other topics include attribution theory, student self-beliefs, effects of grades and testing on achievement motivation, effects of reward or praise, and student empowerment in schools and community-based youth development programs to enhance motivation.
Designed and taught by me 2009-2015 at Macalester College, St. Paul, MN