EDU 911: Advanced Curriculum Design and Assessment

Course Title: EDU 911: Advanced Curriculum Design and Assessment
Subtitle: Creating and Evaluating Effective Educational Programs
Course Name & Level: Advanced Curriculum Design and Assessment, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Curriculum Design, Educational Assessment, Program Evaluation

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in curriculum design and assessment within the context of Christian education. Students will develop skills to create effective educational programs and evaluate their impact on student learning and development.

Course Description:
EDU 911 provides an in-depth study of curriculum design and assessment, equipping students with tools to develop and evaluate educational programs. The course integrates biblical teachings with contemporary educational strategies to enhance the quality and effectiveness of Christian education.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in curriculum design and assessment, promoting the development and evaluation of high-quality educational programs in Christian education.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in designing effective curricula and assessing educational programs, fostering continuous improvement and excellence in education.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Curriculum Design: The process of creating educational programs that align with educational goals and standards (Deuteronomy 6:7).
• Educational Assessment: The process of measuring student learning and development to inform instructional decisions (2 Timothy 2:15).
• Program Evaluation: The systematic assessment of the effectiveness and impact of educational programs (Philippians 1:6).
• Learning Outcomes: The specific skills, knowledge, and attitudes that students are expected to achieve as a result of instruction (Proverbs 22:6).
• Formative Assessment: Ongoing assessment used to monitor student learning and provide feedback for improvement (Galatians 6:6).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Curriculum Design:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for curriculum design and the integration of biblical principles in educational programs (Deuteronomy 6:7).
2. Principles of Effective Curriculum Design:
   Techniques for developing curricula that align with educational goals and standards (Proverbs 16:3).
3. Developing Learning Outcomes:
   Creating clear and measurable learning outcomes that guide instructional design (Proverbs 22:6).
4. Instructional Strategies and Curriculum Implementation:
   Strategies for implementing curricula effectively and engaging students in the learning process (Matthew 7:24).
5. Formative and Summative Assessment:
   Methods for assessing student learning, including formative and summative assessments (2 Timothy 2:15).
6. Designing Assessment Tools:
   Techniques for creating reliable and valid assessment tools to measure student learning (James 1:5).
7. Data-Driven Decision Making:
   Using assessment data to inform instructional decisions and improve educational programs (Proverbs 3:13-14).
8. Program Evaluation Models:
   Exploring various models of program evaluation and their application in educational settings (Philippians 1:6).
9. Continuous Improvement in Education:
   Strategies for fostering a culture of continuous improvement in educational institutions (Colossians 3:23).
10. Ethical and Moral Considerations in Assessment:
    Addressing ethical and moral issues related to assessment and evaluation in education (Micah 6:8).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of curriculum design or assessment, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving curriculum design or assessment, providing biblically-based solutions (James 1:5).
3. Curriculum Development Project:
   Creating a detailed curriculum plan for a Christian educational program, demonstrating the integration of theological principles and practical elements (Proverbs 16:3).
4. Assessment Tool Design:
   Developing an assessment tool to measure student learning, including the rationale and validation process (2 Timothy 2:15).
5. Exams and Quizzes:
   Assessing knowledge and understanding of course materials through periodic exams and quizzes (Proverbs 4:7).
6. Class Participation:
   Active engagement in class discussions, demonstrating comprehension and application of curriculum design and assessment principles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Research References:

1. Tyler, Ralph W. Basic Principles of Curriculum and Instruction. University of Chicago Press, 2013. eBook.
2. Wiggins, Grant, and Jay McTighe. Understanding by Design. ASCD, 2005. eBook.
3. Stiggins, Richard J. Classroom Assessment for Student Learning: Doing It Right – Using It Well. Pearson, 2004. eBook.
4. Marzano, Robert J. Designing a New Taxonomy of Educational Objectives. Corwin Press, 2000. eBook.
5. Popham, W. James. Classroom Assessment: What Teachers Need to Know. Pearson, 2010. eBook.

The course centers on King Jesus, His Kingdom, His Holy Spirit, His Royal Family, and His Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:18-20.