UPDATED SCHEDULE FOR BOTH CLASSES

Here's what was discussed & decided in Theories:
APRIL 5th: Shelley will present on Chpt.10: Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory
APRIL 12th: no class, assignment due (see choices below)
APRIL 19th: Alan will present  Chpt. 11: Cognitive Models and Theory of Motivation
APRIL 26th: no class, prepare for debate
MAY 3rd: DEBATE (see below)
* PROJECT #4 TWO CHOICES (Due April 12)

CHOICE A: Literature Review

Rationale. As a doctoral student and an educator, you are expected to be an active participant in the field of research. You should be able to identify gaps, trends, and vision for the field. You are expected to have the skills to synthesize the literature, conduct research, analyze data, interpret findings, and add to the knowledge base.  Because our field is so broad, I recommend that you begin to focus on one or two areas that spark your interest. For many of you, this project is the first step in this process. You should be able to discuss/investigate issues within a specific theoretical model or examine issues across theoretical models.

The assignment. Select one topic/behavior (e.g. depression, body piercing, anorexia, aggression, self abusing behavior, suicide, or passive aggressive behavior) relevant to the field of special education (topic must not be covered during class discussions and must be approved by the professor). Conduct a literature review on this topic/behavior. At least 5-10 articles must be included. If you are unable to find empirically based articles, you must describe your efforts to locate them.

CHOICE B: White Paper

Rationale: As a doctoral student and a special educator, you are expected to be an active participant in the field of research. You should be able to identify gaps, trends, and vision for the field. You are expected to have the skills to synthesize the literature, conduct research, analyze data, interpret findings, and add to the knowledge base. Researchers and educators in the field of special education must be able to articulate information in a succinct manner.

Assignment: A White Paper is one of a variety of scholarly works. Typically, a White Paper is a personal position paper about a given topic or issue that is supported with references from the professional literature. This White Paper should address the application of learning theory(s) to instruction in special education. At least 5-10 references must be included in this paper. If you are unable to find empirically based articles, you must describe your efforts to locate them.

Specific details for assignment 4 - 30 points: This paper must include at minimum the components presented below in a logical fashion to make your case.

* During the debate, the points listed below must be debated in 1-2 minutes or less. You must be clear and succinct in your debate.

1.     Essence - The basic thoughts/principles of the theory.

2.     Theorists - The main thinkers and their assumptions.

3.     Ability to defend theory

4.     Ability to respond to questions

 Class members will develop questions for the debating experience.

Here's what was discussed & decided in Appraisal:
APRIL 5th:  Shelley will present on Computer Based Assessment (See Presentation link in right hand column), Alan will present on Curriculum Based Assessment
APRIL 12th:  Everyone considers RTI (either do the IRIS module or the www.IDEApartnership.org)
APRIL 19th: Presentations: Shelley, Alan, Lauren?
APRIL 26th: No class
MAY 3rd: TBA (Shelley out of town, open for presentations Alan, Lauren, Megan)