Program Information

Fall Semester

LAI 800: Identifying Characteristics and Needs of Gifted Learners

The purpose of this introductory course is to provide a broad overview of gifted education, including its historical roots, basic terminology, theories and models, as well as general characteristics and needs of gifted learners. It is specifically designed to cover the state's requirement as indicated: "knowledge of tools and methods for identifying and assessing students who learn at a pace and level that is significantly different from that of their classmates, and skill in using the tools and methods;" AND "skill in collaborating with other school staff to provide individualized instruction for all students."

LAI 803: Developing and Evaluating Curriculum for Gifted and Talented Learners

Intended to explore curriculum processes and outcomes for learners with gifts and talents, this seminar involves students in both analyzing existing curriculum research and designing their own curriculum research project in the area of gifted and talented. Different perspectives on curriculum, its use, and usefulness are considered. Special attention will be given to issues of curricular modifications for gifted and talented students across the school curriculum. Those modifications include differentiated instruction, curriculum compacting, and individualized learning contracts.

Spring Semester

LAI 801: Differentiated Instruction

Conceptual foundations and practical applications of differentiated instruction for learners with gifts and talents will be examined in this course. Lesson and unit designs to accommodate gifted learners and their needs will include a variety of instructional strategies that promote higher level, creative, and critical thinking skills. This course is specifically designed to cover New York State’s requirement as indicated in the SED regulations: "knowledge and skills for planning, providing, coordinating, and evaluating differentiated teaching and learning environments to challenge and assist all students in learning to their highest levels of achievement."

LAI 802: Identifying and Assessing Gifted & Talented Students

This course is introductory in nature and focuses on the assessment and evaluation of learners with gifts and talents as well as promoting student development and learning. The first portion of the course addresses: understanding types and characteristics of assessment instruments and methods, applying procedures for evaluating students with gifts and talents, important social and ethical issues in testing, and statistical concepts necessary to understand the results of tests. The second portion of the course deals with procedures for making placement and programming decisions with respect to students with gifts and talents, and for monitoring their progress. The last portion of this course will address issues promoting the development and learning of students with gifts and talents. Upon completing the course, students will be better able to identify and gather essential information, interpret test information, and to use test results to assist in planning educational programs for gifted learners.

Every Semester - Starting Spring 2011

LAI 700: Capstone Event

This course will provide students with an opportunity to create a professional portfolio. Students will align coursework from their program to the INTASC standards for new teachers as a framework to reflect on learning. Through the creation and publication of the portfolio, teachers will leave the program with a foundation for lifelong learning and reflection, as well as a long-term plan for showcasing best practices.