Fitchburg State University
Center for Professional Studies
Engaging, Empowering and Motivating All Students through Innovative Practices and Approaches
A collaborative course for administrators, educators, counselors, social workers and psychologists
August Summer Institute- August 7-11 2017
8:30-4:00
McKay C188
Course Number: PDMT 6281 Schedule Number (CRN): 51368 3 Graduate Credits at $957
Course Number: PDMT 6281P Schedule Number (CRN): 51369 37.5 PDPs at $672
Telephone (978) 582 6182
Email: gailokerman@comcast.net
Course Description: The basic premise of this course is that each child and adolescent will achieve if provided with multiple points of access to learning, with a mastery level of methodology delivered by innovative educators. This course is based on the work of key learning experts focusing on creativity, innovation and growth mindset in education. The primary focus of this exploration is the work of Dweck, Wagner, Stewart and the Harvard Graduate School of Educations Project Zero whose research and innovative approaches will be integrated throughout the course. The intention in this exploration is to help educators understand, design, and document powerful learning experiences in a range of disciplines and settings. Today, more than ever before, we must all be able to think creatively, manage change, and solve complex, open-ended problem solving. At the same time, this course will explore a myriad of effective approaches to better understand what drives student behaviors and self-regulation. We will address the effective integration of tier one routines and rituals that support best outcomes for all students. We will also provide a variety of cutting edge strategies that allow educators and administrators to intervene effectively with behaviors. The basic premise of this course is that when educators and administrators deliberately integrate an understanding of child and adolescent psychological development with innovative cutting edge strategies to engage students, that impactful change occurs tor the student and the system. Throughout the course, we will apply innovative approaches with creative practical strategies that support accessing the full potential of each student. Participants will also be given the opportunity to explore the complexity of development and the myriad of strategies that children, adolescents and adults develop and utilize to overcome cognitive and environmental challenges and pitfalls presented in their lives. The course will integrate theoretical concepts related to innovation, growth mindset and resilience.
This course is designed to close the gap between research and practice and to promote understanding and effective practice relating to creativity and innovation.
This course enables educators to facilitate the learning of students by acquiring and applying knowledge, skills, and abilities that address student needs and improvement goals of the district, school, and individual. The course conforms to best practices in research and relates to educators’ assignments and professional responsibilities[1].
Educators, counselors and administrators will be challenged to rethink educational environments. A growth mindset that requires a 21st century thinking will be cultivated throughout this course.
