Department of Language, Literacy and Technology

Chairperson: Cindy McPhail, Ph.D.
Professor: Erdmann, Ph.D., Fenwick, Ed.D.
Associate Professors: L. Jones, Ph.D., McPhail, Ph.D.
Assistant Professors: Cheng, Ph.D., Schaff, Ph.D.
Instructors: Postler, M.S.Ed.

Programs in the Department of Language, Literacy and Technology have a long and active history of interacting with and supporting the Rochester area community of teachers and learners. The Department prepares competent, qualified, and caring teachers who become highly sought-after specialists in their fields. Having a deeper knowledge in the fields of language, literacy and technology better prepares teacher candidates for excellence in instruction and helps them to stand out from the crowd.

Language

The Department offers programs for teachers who want to work with students who are English language learners. There are two options of TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) Masters Degree Programs: one for teachers who already hold teacher certification in another area, and one for people who are just entering the teaching field. Both programs lead to a Masters Degree and qualification for NYS ESOL certification at all grades. The Bilingual Extension Program is a 12 credit Extension which can be attached to most certification areas, allowing for teachers to provide Spanish bilingual instruction in the field of their base certificate.

Literacy

The Literacy Education Programs prepare classroom teachers to integrate learning theories, practices, and research to address all learners’ literacy needs and interests in an inclusive and supportive manner. There are two Programs, one at the K-5 and one at the 6-12 developmental level. Both of these programs lead to a Masters Degree and qualification for NYS certification in Literacy. Both Literacy Programs are additional certification only.

Technology

The Computer Education Programs are for students who already hold teaching certification in some other area, but extensive prior knowledge of computer technology is not required. Two formats of the Program are offered: Traditional and a Hybrid version that uses online technology combined with intensive, on-campus visits. Students in these Programs learn to infuse computer technology into K-12 pedagogy and earn a Masters Degree and qualification for NYS certification in Educational Technology. The program focuses on pedagogy and methodology as well as instruction in the application of current technological tools in educational settings.

The Department of Language, Literacy and Technology develops teaching expertise in order to be able to foster students’ critical interpretations of the world around them. Our programs reflect research-supported best practices, share a commitment to authenticity, and are based on National Standards.