Graduate Certificate in Instructional Planning and Decision-Making
The Graduate Certificate in Instructional Planning and Decision-Making is designed for educators who want to strengthen their expertise in curriculum design, instructional decision-making, and reflective practice. This program equips teachers with the knowledge and tools to make informed instructional choices, differentiate learning to meet diverse student needs, and engage in systematic inquiry to improve classroom practice. The certificate can be pursued alongside a graduate degree or as a standalone credential for non-degree seeking students.
The program includes the following courses:
- EDG6070: Teacher Thinking and Decision Making in School Settings (3 Credits) This course provides participants with the knowledge and skills to critically examine their own curricular and instructional decision-making. Emphasis is placed on using reflection and evidence-based strategies to continuously improve teaching practices and foster student learning.
- EDE6205: Effective Practices for Differentiating Instruction (3 Credits) This course prepares advanced educators to design and implement differentiated instruction that addresses the social, physical, and cognitive needs of students. Students will develop practical skills for tailoring instruction, content, curriculum, and assessment tools, while also examining the theoretical frameworks that support differentiated teaching practices.
One of the following courses:
- EDG6067: Introduction to Teacher Inquiry (3 Credits) This foundational course introduces the principles of teacher inquiry, preparing educators to critically reflect on their own practice and engage in action research. Students will explore models of teacher inquiry from both historical and contemporary perspectives and apply them within their professional contexts to promote continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
- EDG6911: Action Research in Education (3 Credits) This course focuses on the implementation of systematic inquiry that is collaborative, self-reflective, and classroom-based. Students will develop skills in question design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, applying action research to increase understanding, address classroom challenges, and inform educational decision-making and policy development.
By completing this certificate, educators will enhance their ability to make intentional, evidence-based instructional decisions, differentiate effectively for diverse learners, and conduct classroom-based research to strengthen teaching practices and improve student outcomes.