Faculty of Education Graduate Programs in Reading Development and Instruction

Summary

In this video, Angela Hunt from Memorial's Faculty of Education interviews Dr. Rhonda Joy about the Graduate Diploma and Master's programs in Reading Development and Instruction. They discuss the role of reading specialists, program structures, application processes, and admission requirements. The conversation highlights the importance of time management, communication, and the unique synchronous components of the online courses. Dr. Joy also addresses the possibility of transferring from the diploma to the master's program and the supports available to students.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The Faculty of Education at Memorial University offers a Graduate Diploma in Reading Development and Instruction, as well as a Master's of Education in the same field.
• 👩‍🏫 Reading specialists play diverse roles in the education system, including working with children from kindergarten through grade six, supporting classroom teachers, and promoting reading culture.
• 🔍 Reading specialists can work in various capacities such as program specialists, literacy support teachers, literacy coaches, and private tutors.
• 📚 The Graduate Diploma consists of four reading-focused online courses with live components, while the Master's program offers a thesis or project route with additional electives.
• 🤝 The live components of the courses are crucial for interaction among students and with instructors, facilitating practical application of the course material.
• 📝 The application process for both programs is online and requires transcripts, references, a resume, and a letter of rationale.
• 🏫 Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree with at least a 70% average and a preference for students with relevant background and teaching experience.
• 📆 The programs start in January, with the Diploma taking four semesters and the Master's allowing for full-time or part-time study.
• 🤔 Strategies for success in these programs include time management, keeping up with readings, communicating with instructors, and maintaining a balance between studies and personal life.
• 💼 Students enrolled in the Diploma program can work full-time, while those in the Master's program can choose between full-time or part-time study.
• 📈 The online environment includes discussion posts, case studies, presentations, assignments, and a practicum component for the fourth reading course.

Q & A

What are the roles of reading specialists in the education system?

Reading specialists typically work with children with reading issues, generally from kindergarten through grade six, and may also support older students or adults. They collaborate with classroom teachers to enhance reading development and instruction, promote a reading culture within schools or districts, and may work as reading program specialists, literacy support teachers, literacy coaches, or private tutors.

What is the difference between the Graduate Diploma in Reading Development and Instruction and the Master of Education in Reading Development and Instruction at Memorial's Faculty of Education?

The Graduate Diploma consists of four reading-focused online courses with synchronous components, designed for students to deepen their understanding of reading development, assessment, and instruction. The Master's program includes the same four courses but also offers opportunities to explore other areas of interest through a thesis or project route, with additional research courses and electives.

How can one apply to the graduate programs in reading development and instruction at Memorial's Faculty of Education?

Applications are made online through Memorial's School of Graduate Studies. Applicants need to provide their transcripts, two references (one academic and one professional), a resume, and a letter outlining their rationale for joining the program.

What are the admission requirements for the graduate diploma or master's program in reading development and instruction?

Applicants need an undergraduate degree with at least a second-class standing or a 70 percent average in their last 90 attempted credit hours from a recognized university. Preference is given to students with backgrounds in assessment or remedial instruction and at least two years of teaching experience.

What can students expect when enrolled in the graduate programs in reading development and instruction?

Students can expect to start in January, with the diploma program taking four semesters to complete one course per term. The master's program offers a choice between full-time or part-time enrollment. Courses include synchronous or live components, with six to seven two-hour sessions throughout the term for discussion and engagement with peers and instructors.

What strategies for success are recommended for students enrolled in the reading development and instruction graduate programs?

Recommended strategies include effective time management, keeping up with readings, maintaining open communication with instructors, finding a balance between studies and other responsibilities, and enjoying the learning process.

Is it possible for students to work full-time while completing the graduate programs in reading development and instruction?

Yes, the diploma program is part-time, allowing for full-time work. The master's program offers both full-time and part-time options, though full-time study would likely not allow for full-time work.

Are there any minimum academic averages or grades that students must maintain in the reading development and instruction graduate programs?

Yes, a minimum grade of 65 percent is required to pass any graduate course in the reading development programs.

What can students expect in the online environment of the reading development and instruction graduate programs?

Students can expect a mix of asynchronous and synchronous learning, with discussion posts, case studies, presentations, assignments, research papers, and video components. The fourth reading course includes a practicum where students work with a child and a teacher in a school system.

Can students transfer from the Graduate Diploma in Reading Development and Instruction to the Master of Education in Reading Development and Instruction at Memorial's Faculty of Education?

Yes, students can transfer from the diploma to the master's program, with the courses from the diploma transferring over to the master's program.

What supports are available to students completing a graduate program with the Faculty of Education at Memorial University?

Students have access to various supports including the Faculty of Education library, Queen Elizabeth Library, career services, student wellness and health counseling, and the university's writing center. Additionally, the School of Graduate Studies offers webinars, online sessions, and resources like videos and blogs to assist students.