MED625 Developing Principles for Practice (4 cr.)

In this learning experience, learners continue the journey of self­-study, engaging in critical reflection on beliefs and current practices. While growing together toward true community learners practice skills of coaching thinking and feedback, designed to build the capacity of others.  Learners practice these skills while engaging in problem posing and problem-solving dialogue at the Teach. Learn. Lead. conference.  Learners begin to explore intentional design and examine the action research process, while deepening their understanding of the concepts uncovered in semester one of community and environment.  Within curriculum design, learners experience, explore, and implement multiple assessment and instructional strategies encompassing culturally responsive teaching and social, emotional, and academic learning.

Upon completion of the course, learners are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Examine, question, and align educational beliefs and practices.
2. Evaluate the impact/value of reflection on growth.
3. Identify elements of culturally responsive teaching that integrate social, emotional and academic learning.
4. Write enduring understandings and essential questions connected to concepts and outcomes.
5. Use feedback and coaching thinking skills (pausing, paraphrasing, asking mediative questions, suspending) to assist community members’ reflections on improving and evaluating practice.
6. Describe the role of generativity (celebrating the value and contributions of others) in teaching and learning and apply it to practice.