According to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), high-quality instruction involves structured and engaging lessons that “enhance student understanding of [important] concepts and develop their capacity to do mathematics or science successfully.” A study conducted by ASCD found that while important content is essential to high-quality classroom instruction, it’s not the only crucial factor. Encouraging students to interact intentionally with the content and using strategies to help students build on previous knowledge with authentic examples is another vital concept.
Classroom lessons should be at the proper level for learners and be challenging for them to learn additional information. Highly effective lessons should also reinforce concepts and motivate students. An online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Curriculum and Instruction program from the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) can help graduates develop the skills, knowledge and disposition necessary to solve instructional problems in educational settings at the highest level. This accredited degree program prepares graduates to relate theoretical concepts to instructional and curricular issues in real-world settings.
Foundational Skills in Instruction
The ULM’s online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction degree program provides the understanding and expertise for educational leaders who want to impact how students receive and retain information. Students in this program will learn qualitative and quantitative methods, examine research-based theories and explore the social, intellectual, political and moral foundations of education via various theoretical viewpoints.
The core class entitled Instructional Design and Technology Integration prepares educators for future classroom interventions by covering the development, design, implementation and evaluation of instructional materials created according to instructional design principles. By using these principles, teachers will develop the skills and knowledge to solve instructional problems in their classrooms.
One of the critical challenges that educators face is developing a classroom culture that is conducive to learning. Creating a rigorous and respectful environment to foster meaningful learning involves encouraging students to contribute new ideas and provide equal access to all students.
Tools to Boost Engagement and Learning
Some tools that are used within the classroom can help students interact with engaging learning opportunities. These can include immersive learning technology, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR). Artificial intelligence (AI) is also a valuable tool for teachers and students. AI can suggest personalized learning for individual students as well as automate repetitive tasks for teachers, such as grading.
Evidence-based learning practices are also a part of high-quality instructional solutions. These practices allow educators to provide students with an exceptional curriculum and instructional design that can improve learning outcomes. Evidence-based practice (EBP) is an educational theory that refers to teaching strategies, methods and interventions proven through research to be effective. Evidence-based practice is crucial since it positively impacts student engagement, achievement, performance and retention. All of these teaching methods and practices equal high-quality instructional solutions.
Next Steps
The online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program offers eight-week courses that are presented in a convenient online format. With five available start times throughout the year, this online program is designed for working professionals. This rigorous degree program is taught by accomplished faculty members with the knowledge and experience to prepare students to pursue new career opportunities.
Graduates of this program are qualified to work as superintendents, university professors, education administrators and instructional coordinators who understand how to implement high-quality instructional solutions.
Learn more about the University of Louisiana Monroe’s online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program.