Graduate Certificate in Teacher Inquiry
The Graduate Certificate in Teacher Inquiry is designed for educators who seek to enhance their professional practice through reflective and systematic inquiry. This program equips teachers with the skills and tools necessary to engage in action research, promoting ongoing improvement in teaching and learning. The certificate is ideal for educators who want to critically examine their classroom practices and contribute to the broader body of educational research. It can be earned alongside a graduate degree or as a standalone program for non-degree seeking students.
The program includes the following courses:
- EDG6067: Introduction to Teacher Inquiry (3 Credits) This foundational course introduces the principles and models of teacher inquiry, preparing educators to reflect critically on their teaching practice. Students will explore both historical and contemporary frameworks of teacher inquiry, comparing different approaches and theories. The course emphasizes the importance of reflective practice in education, encouraging students to engage in inquiry within their own professional contexts. By the end of the course, students will have a strong understanding of how teacher inquiry can drive personal and professional growth in educational settings.
- EDG6911: Action Research in Education (6 Credits) (repeatable for a total of 6 credit hours) This course focuses on the practical implementation of action research, where educators conduct collective, collaborative, and self-reflective inquiry into their teaching practice. Students will learn how to develop research questions, collect and analyze data, and interpret and present their findings. The course emphasizes using the classroom as a research site to better understand educational dynamics, solve teaching challenges, and contribute to knowledge about teaching and learning. Action research also plays a role in shaping educational policy and decision-making. This course may be repeated for up to 6 credit hours, allowing for deeper engagement in multiple research projects.
This certificate empowers educators to become reflective practitioners and researchers, using inquiry and action research to make data-driven improvements in their classrooms and contribute to the field of education.