ED 560: Foundations for Literacy Learning (2 cr)

COURSE
DESCRIPTION

An introductory graduate course exploring the theory and research on which literacy learning is based. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to: 1) identify and discuss foundational issues within the Vygotskian theory of literacy learning; 2) identify and discuss the connections between this theory and classroom practices; 3) identify and discuss core understandings from research about learning to read.

PREREQUISITES

There are no required prerequisites for this course. However, learners are assumed to be teachers with access to elementary and/or secondary students.

COURSE
STRUCTURE

Textbook reading assignments, discussion board entries, summary of Vygotskian theory, reflections on Braunger & Lewis Core Understandings about Learning to Read, application project.

STANDARDS

This course supports the following International Reading Association's 2003 Standards for Reading Professionals:

1.1	Demonstrate knowledge of psychological, sociological, and linguistic foundations of reading and writing processes and instruction.
2.3	Use a wide range of curriculum materials in effective reading instruction for learners at different stages of reading and writing development and from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

PRACTICAL
APPLICATIONS

Students will apply what they have learned about the foundations of literacy learning by developing a creative project/product to be used with fellow teachers/staff, parents, administration, school board members, community or legislators. Projects may include a brochure, newsletter, in-service, etc.

CORE/ELECTIVE

This graduate course can be used as 2 core credits in the Literacy Foundations thematic area in the 24-credit Reading Endorsement program, as 2 elective credits in the 12-credit Literary Education program, or for individual professional development. Please consult an advisor at your home institution about adding this course to your program.

INSTRUCTORS

Dr. M. Ruth Davenport, Professor, College of Education, Eastern Oregon University. Literacy consultant and teacher for 14 years. Miscue analysis expert and textbook author. (BS, MS, SW Missouri State University; Ph.D., University of Missouri)

TARGET
AUDIENCE

Appropriate for all pK-12 practitioners.

TIME
COMMITMENT

Students should expect to spend 6 hours per week for 10 weeks in course-related activities (e.g., reading the text and course materials, posting to discussion forums, completing written reports/papers and classroom-based assignments). This course is online and does not require in-person attendance. Assignments are completed on the learner's time schedule and are due as posted.

TEXTBOOK

Textbook(s) are required for this course. You will find the textbook listed in the syllabus that is posted online at the EOU website or you may contact the instructor. For most classes, the EOU Bookstore will be a source for the textbook.

COST

No course in the ReadOregon curriculum will cost more than $300 per credit, including all fees.

TECHNICAL
REQUIREMENTS

This online course requires access to the Internet with Word/WordPerfect for written assignments. Recommended minimum computer configuration is:

PC running Windows 95 or newer
Macintosh Quadra 700 or better or Power PC
Modem 28.8 or faster, or other network connection
Sound card and speakers (optional)
32 Megabytes or greater of system RAM
Adequate hard disk drive

CONTACT

For more details on this course, please contact Dr. M. Ruth Davenport, Eastern Oregon University.