Master of Arts in Teaching

Ministry of the Master (Required for students who have not completed 9 or more undergraduate or 3 or more graduate credits in Biblical Studies and/or Theology from an accredited institution approved by Johnson University. Students may meet this requirement prior to entering the program or concurrently while completing the other coursework.)

A graduate-level study of the ministry of Jesus as depicted in Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and various other biblical witnesses. The aim of the course is to acquire knowledge of Jesus in his historical setting and to make contemporary applications of his ministry for the Christian.

Classroom Management
This course explores two areas of significant and potential difficulty for the beginning teacher: effective classroom management and successful organization of the inclusive classroom. In this course, students will study management theory and teacher style and will study a variety of strategies for developing a plan for classroom management based on Christian principles. They will also seek to understand the special needs of the mainstreamed child and ways to meet these needs within an effective inclusive setting.

Mathematics & Science Methods
This course provides an overview of teaching methods and strategies for mathematics and science education in elementary and middle school classrooms. Students investigate trends, learning theories, instructional activities, and manipulative materials applicable to mathematics education with a focus on ways to improve the teaching of mathematics. Specific emphasis is given to the developmental approach to mathematics learning, teaching, and assessment. In the Science portion of the course, students learn and apply skills needed to use inquiry-based, open-ended, and materials-based investigations in the classroom. Students come to know, understand, and use strategies and pedagogy to enhance children’s learning of life science, earth and space science, and physical science based on the best practices for teaching science outlined in the National Science Education Standards and the Common Core State Standards.

Introduction to Education II
This course moves students from a broader view of teaching an introductory lesson plan to an in-depth look at a Learning Segment. Emphasis is placed on analyzing and reflecting upon lesson plans, instruction, and assessments as well as incorporating research-based learning theories into each of those areas. Additional focus is put on academic vocabulary, learning environments, and academic feedback.

Diversity & Special Education
This course continues the study of holistic education with special emphasis on diversity and special education in schools today.

Introduction to Elementary Education
This course introduces students to various aspects of teacher education, including teaching and learning, history and philosophy of education, educational psychology, and classroom management.

Integrated Methods I: Language Arts & Social Studies
This course focuses on best practices and strategies employed by teachers that are effective in motivating elementary school-age students to acquire information, skills, and modes of reasoning. Students plan, author, and present lesson plans and instruction demonstrating use of various methods, techniques, and materials as they expand their understanding of the fields of social studies and language arts.

Integrated Methods II: Reading
This course is an in-depth study of methods of teaching reading in the classroom. Students come to know, understand, and use appropriate practices for promoting and developing beginning literacy skills for integrating reading instruction across all subject areas.

Teaching in the Christian School
This course focuses on historical and philosophical foundations for the Christian school. During the course, three main components are addressed: historical perspectives and contributions to Christian Education, theology and philosophy of Christian Education, and biblical integration in Christian Education.

Student Teaching: Elementary Education
Students complete a term of student teaching in Elementary Education grades K-5.

Observation Practicum
This practical field experience is designed to acquaint students with a variety of schools and classrooms in the Knoxville area. Students examine various aspects of the classroom environment, management, and teaching methods in the classrooms they visit. Candidates will spend four full days in four different schools.