Applying Cognitive Science to Learning and Teaching
Research-based pedagogies and cognitive science principles that have important implications for instructional approach and curriculum design, including schemas for conceptual change, teaching for deep understanding, problem and project-based learning and instructional purpose. Coursework incorporates findings from developmental research and considers how cultural and learner diversity influences instructional design. (Professor Tina Groetzer)
Bilingual Learners: Literacy Development and Instruction
Supporting Children’s Social, Emotional, & Behavioral Development in Early Education & Elementary School Settings
Foundational frameworks and developmentally appropriate practices aimed at supporting children’s social, emotional, and behavioral growth in classroom, school, family and community contexts. (Dr. Jacqueline Zeller)
Teacher and Teaching Quality
Examining and comparing the evidentiary base on teacher and teaching quality: teacher education and certification requirements, incentives for entry, professionalization, professional development, coaching, improved curriculum materials, and teaching effectiveness. (Professor Heather Hill)
Informal Learning for Children
Practicum course working with researchers, producers, and senior executives from Sesame Workshop, as well as leaders from museums, community centers, after-school programs, libraries, and summer camps to develop new ventures in informal learning for children. (Joseph Blatt)
Education in Armed Conflict
Examination of the multidimensional and multidirectional relationships between armed conflict and education. (Dr. Sarah Dryden- Peterson)
The Consequences of Educational Policy Interventions in Developing Countries: Evidence from Recent Impact Evaluations
Study of the growing body of studies from developing countries that provide compelling causal evidence about the factors that influence the decisions of students, parents, and teachers, and the effectiveness of different strategies to enhance students’ learning. (Dr. Felipe Barrera-Osorio)
Field Experience in 21st-Century Early-Childhood Learning
Practicum working closely with, and providing support to, senior managers at Sesame Workshop: exploring new opportunities for early childhood education, such as engaging parents in their children's cognitive and social development, expanding services to at-risk populations, exploiting the latest educational technologies, and personalizing media for individual learners. (Joseph Blatt)
International Humanitarian Response (Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health)
Practical training in the complex issues, concepts, standards and field skills needed to engage in emergency humanitarian response. (Dr. Stephanie Kayden)
Schools in Action
Field study at a variety of local schools to understand external and internal forces that affect school management, culture and student lives: community, governance, school models, scheduling, curricula, funding, testing, and partnerships. (Dr. Linda Nathan)