Educational Technology Specialist

The program of study focuses on pedagogy and methodology as well as instruction in the current technological tools utilized in education settings. This program prepares educators:

• to identify, evaluate, and apply appropriate technologies, and to be familiar with research in curriculum and instruction;
• to enhance the teaching/learning process by integrating technology across the curriculum for all learners;
• to collaborate with other professionals in the field of education;
• students have the option of completing a traditional program OR enrolling in the “hybrid format” program that combines on-line distance learning (fall and spring semesters) with intensive summer study on campus.

Hybrid Model Option

• two year program utilizing on-line learning in combination with several on-campus meetings;
• program meets intensively for three weeks during two consecutive summers, plus courses during the fall and spring semesters that meet for two weekends each semester, with the remaining time spent learning through the use of on-line distance education;
• all students entering the hybrid program must start in the summer (program begins with the three week on-campus summer intensive program in July).

Program Director
James Fenwick, Ed.D.
(585) 389-2630
jfenwic3@naz.edu

Entry Requirements    

1. Completed Online Application
2. Completion of the professional statement as described on the application
3. Official transcripts from all colleges attended
4. Applicant must have completed, or will be completing, a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative index of 3.0 and a “B” average in the major field by the start date of the desired term. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is expected. An applicant who does not meet these requirements must address each of the following in his/her professional statement:
   1. Explain why grades were below Nazareth’s minimum expectations
   2. Explain potential to positively contribute to the teaching profession
   3. Describe relevant experiences and/or activities that demonstrate ability to successfully complete graduate work at Nazareth College
   4. Outline specific procedures that will be followed to sucessfully navigate and meet the rigorous requirements of graduate study
5. Submit standardized test scores from within the past 5 years. Additional/Professional certification applicants must submit scores from one of the following exam options:
   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination); How to submit GRE scores.
     • Nazareth College GRE Code: 2511
   • MAT (Miller Analogies Test). How to submit MAT scores.
     • Nazareth College MAT Code: 1479
   • edTPA  Nazareth College will obtain scores from the New York State TEACH sytem
6. Copy of verification of teacher certification from the TEACH system
7. Two letters of recommendation
8. Resume

Certification required for admission: any teacher certification

Program leads to: Additional certification as an Educational Technology Specialist (K-12)
AND
Eligibility to apply for Professional certifications held at the time of entrance to the graduate program

Applying for Teacher Certification through New York State
Teacher candidates use the NYS TEACH system to apply for Initial and Professional certifications and need to pay the fees in effect at the time they apply. New York requires all teacher candidates to have a fingerprint/background check on file with TEACH, pass all appropriate New York State Teacher Certification Examinations <www.nystce.nesinc.com> and have the appropriate years of teaching experience. New York State Education Department maintains a website with certification requirements: http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tcert/

Teacher candidates adding an additional certification will need to take the appropriate Content Specialty Test in their new area of certification only.

Note - the CSTs are in the process of being revised and phased in starting in Spring 2014. If you pass the current CST before the new CST test is available it will be accepted. Monitor the NYSTCE website for sample tests, guides and the availability of revised Content Specialty Tests (CST) www.nystce.nesinc.com.

During a teacher candidate’s final semester, information on the certification application process will be sent via email. Additional support may be obtained by contacting Nazareth College Teacher Certification Office at (585) 389-2592 or by email tcert@naz.edu, or www.naz.edu/dept/edu/certification.cfm

Application Deadlines:
March 1 for Summer Term (Regular and Hybrid* Programs)
*Summer start term only for students in the Hybrid program
April 1 for Fall Term
October 1 for Spring Term
Applications received after the stated deadline will be processed on a space-available basis.

 

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Standard 1 of the ISTE (NETS) standards, Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity subsection (a) states that teachers will use their knowledge of subject matter to promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness. Over the course of their Educational Technology Specialist program students will demonstrate an ability to think creatively.

2. Students in the Educational Technology Specialist graduate program will demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate via written research projects.

3. Students in the Educational Technology Specialist program demonstrate a firm understanding of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) National Educational Technology Standards(NETS) for 2008