CURR 1100 Effective Learning: 1 semester hour.

The course content is divided into a four-part model (the Effective Learning Model) consisting of self assessment, cognitive theories, self-regulation and strategies for self-change. Each part overlaps the other to form a strong framework to foster the student's understanding of the learning process and to help students maximize their learning potential.
Prerequisites: CURR 1300 or CURR 1013.

CURR 1300 Principles of Effective Learning: 3 semester hours.

A study of the research and the theory in the psychology of learning, cognition, motivation, as well as the factor that influence learning, and the application of learning strategies. Theoretical model of strategic learning, cognition, and motivation serves as the conceptual basis for instruction. The course content is divided into four-part model (the Effective Learning Model) consisting of self-assessment, cognitive theories, self-regulation, and strategies for self-change.

CURR 1303 Prior Learning Assessment Theory and Practice: 3 semester hours.

This course is designed to assist students in identifying area of learning that may be evaluated for college-level credit equivalency. The course guides students through the preperation and compilation of all components required for the evaluation of a portfolio of prior learning. Students will use critical reflection skills to conceptualize the value of prior learning and its implications for future learning. Adult learning theory, models, and concepts are discussed and applied to case studies. Admission to course requires permission from Department Head and Learning Counts Coordinator.
Prerequisites: ENGL 1301 or ENGL 1123 and (ENGL 1302 or ENGL 1133).

CURR 2101 Step 1: Inquiry Approaches to Teaching: 1 semester hour.

STEM teaching is explored in this course through the introduction to the theory and practice of inquiry-based science and mathematics lesson planning. Students experience planning and implementation of lessons through designing and preparing them for elementary school settings.

CURR 2102 Step 2: Inquiry-Based Lesson Design: 1 semester hour.

STEM teaching is further explored in this course by building upon and practicing inquiry-based lesson design and questioning skills that were developed in Step 1 and experiencing teaching with technology through demo lessons. Students become familiar with the middle school setting by observing and discussing the middle school environment and by teaching lessons to middle school students.
Prerequisites: CURR 2101.

CURR 2300 Global Influences on Teacher Education: 3 semester hours.

Introduction to teacher education from a global community perspective through exploration of societal influences on education.

CURR 3325 History and Social Studies Methods: 3 semester hours.

This course focuses on 1) the mastery of historical facts related to US, world, and Texas histories, 2) understanding the various teaching methods used in the social studies classroom, and 3) the development of lesson plans for the EC – 6, and 4-8 Social Studies classrooms. The student will also be introduced to the social studies standards of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for licensure in Texas public schools.
Prerequisites: (HIST 1313 or HIST 1301) and ((HIST 1323 or HIST 1302) or (HIST 1333 or HIST 2301)) and (POSC 1113 or POSC 2305) and (POSC 1123 or POSC 2306).

CURR 3326 Methods of Teaching Science: 3 semester hours.

Science course designed for prospective teachers to develop competence and confidence needed to teach science in K-12 classrooms. This competence involves a level of understanding of the subject matter and pedagogical best practices that include the use of 5E Model lesson planning and implementation. The focus will be on teaching and learning science in the K-12 classroom through the integration of science content, differentiation strategies and assessment tools. As a capstone project, Students will be expected to demonstrate science content knowledge through a 5EModel science lesson designed and taught to students.

CURR 3327 Science for Teachers: 3 semester hours.

This course is designed for K-12 pre-service educators to review physical, life, environmental and earth science to address the TEA content examination in Science. It is designed to hone the science skills so teachers are competent and confident in the instruction of these topics.

CURR 4101 Science Special Topics: 1 semester hour.

Course designed to mentor students in science competitions and/ or conference preparation, manuscript, publications or Content exam preparation. As a second focus, students will be mentored to participate and compete in STEM related competitions for College students. This course may be used to provide individualized preparation for any science content examinations required by the Texas Education Agency.

CURR 4399 Independent Study: 0-3 semester hour.

Readings, research and/or field work on selected topics.

CURR 5300 Theory and Dynamics of Curriculum and Instruction: 3 semester hours.

A curriculum of theoretical and logical structures that exceeds the essential elements and promotes higher thinking skills, explores consideration of implications for bilingual, migrant and exceptional education. Expands integration of technology in influencing implementation, planning and evaluation of curriculum at all levels of teaching.

CURR 5350 Curriculum Evaluation: 3 semester hours.

An examination of the several procedures used to evaluate curricular materials and development activities. Formative and summative evaluation methodologies are compared and contrasted and the consequences of model evaluative systems demonstrated.

CURR 5399 Independent Study: 3 semester hours.

Readings, research, and/or field work on selected topics.