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.

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

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

Instruction and Assessment for English Learners
This course provides candidates with an understanding of the instructional needs of English learners. Candidates explore effective instruction and develop English Language Development (ELD) lesson plans that integrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Candidates will select and use formal and informal methods of assessment to make informed decisions about instruction.

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.

Introduction to Education II
As a continuation of Introduction to Teaching, 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.

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.

ESL Topics and Trends
This course provides candidates with the skills needed to acquire a deeper understanding of the social and academic needs of English learners. Specific educational policies, legal requirements, professional responsibilities, and collaboration among stakeholders will be explored. Candidates will analyze student diversity and current trends related to the education of English learners.

Student Teaching: English as a Second Language
This course involves a term of student teaching in secondary grades in the prepared discipline area of preferred licensure.

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.

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.