Educational Studies (EDST)

EDST 2302. Histories of Education. 3 Hours.

Students explore the development of different types of educational systems and structures in historical context. Students develop an understanding of the relationship between society and education, including relevant terminology and policy relevant to multiple areas of American education.

EDST 2303. Comparative Education. 3 Hours.

Students examines educational systems, policies, and practices across different countries and cultures. Students will analyze how historical, cultural, economic, and political factors shape educational structures and outcomes. Through comparative analysis, students will develop critical thinking skills about educational reform, equity, and global educational challenges.

EDST 2304. Industry and Education. 3 Hours.

Students examines the complex relationships between educational systems and industry sectors, exploring how workforce development, skills training, and educational initiatives respond to economic and technological changes. Students will analyze case studies, evaluate policy frameworks, and develop proposals for educational-industry partnerships.

EDST 2305. School and Workforce Safety. 3 Hours.

Students examine school and general workplace violence issues from a variety of perspectives. Prevention and response to violence in schools and the workplace are examined across disciplines using innovative technology and theory.

EDST 3301. Change in Education. 3 Hours.

Students examines the evolution of education across various sectors, with emphasis on transformative changes in K-12, higher education, and corporate training environments. Students will explore how technological advances, global events (particularly COVID-19), and pedagogical innovations have reshaped learning experiences. Through analysis of historical trends and future predictions, students will develop skills to design effective training programs and adapt to emerging educational paradigms.

EDST 3303. Science of Learning. 3 Hours.

Students learn how the brain processes information and how this affects learning. Research on brain function and converting information into effective learning strategies and activities in education will be explored.

EDST 3304. Designing Learning. 3 Hours.

Students are introduced to the fundamental principles of learning space design and its impact on educational outcomes. Through virtual exploration, digital analysis tools, and collaborative online projects, students will explore how physical and virtual environments influence learning, examine traditional and innovative classroom designs, and develop basic skills in evaluating and improving learning spaces.

EDST 3307. Educational Law. 3 Hours.

Students will gain an understanding the educational legal environment in schools today. This course provides an overview of legal concepts educators and administrators must understand to lead in today’s educational environments. A comprehensive review of topics is offered.

EDST 3308. Violence Prevention in Education and the Workplace. 3 Hours.

Students will develop a keen awareness of violent behaviors and indicators. They will also learn methods for responding to and preventing violence in classrooms, schools, and organizations. This class provides an overview of violence theory, prevention, and response measures in both educational and workplace environments.

EDST 4303. Program Evaluation in Education. 3 Hours.

Students examine the history, professional standards, and theories of program evaluation in educational settings. Students explore professional evaluators’ roles and the contexts in which program evaluation occurs.
Prerequisite: 15 Hours of EDUC courses.

EDST 4304. Leadership of Active Attack Prevention and Response. 3 Hours.

Students will engage in an overview of theories and practices in preventing and responding to active attacks in educational and community settings. Behavioral threat assessment, mental health screening and response, and active attack response protocols will be reviewed. Specific attention will be paid to trauma informed, multi-tiered systems of support for students, families, and educators and leadership to prevent active attacks in educational and workplace settings.

EDST 4305. Trauma and Mental Health in Educational Settings. 3 Hours.

Students examine the foundations and influences of trauma on educational environments and student outcomes. Students will be able to trace the history of trauma in communities, organizations, and families while also studying different forms of trauma. Students will be guided through processes to identify trauma, educate students and employees with traumatic experiences, and support individuals with mental health needs.

EDST 4367. Capstone in Educational Studies. 3 Hours.

Students engage in reflective activities to demonstrate cumulative knowledge in their major. Students develop a professional portfolio, construct a culminating project, and practice job seeking skills.
Prerequisite: Senior Standing.