New M.Ed. specialization to help educators harness the power of technology

SAN DIEGO – After the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional education and moved many classrooms online, teachers around the country had to learn new ways to successfully reach their students and inspire their learning. In this new age of teaching, technology has taken center-stage, and educators across all grade levels are seeking out resources to enhance their skills.

Technology is rapidly changing the face of education – both by creating powerful new classroom learning tools and strategies, and by facilitating the ongoing trend toward remote and virtual education.

This has created an urgent need for educators who understand how to effectively integrate traditional educational theory and best practices with new and emerging technology to create meaningful technology-enhanced learning experiences.

The online Master of Education: Technology & Innovation degree program at the University of San Diego helps educators gain the knowledge and skills needed to become technology leaders in their classrooms, schools and districts.

Degree candidates will become “EdTech experts,” working to develop an advanced understanding of traditional educational standards, frameworks, theories and techniques, as a foundation upon which to effectively integrate technology in a wide variety of education settings.

“Due to the pandemic, many educators were thrown into teaching online with very little training. This degree allows them to not only learn, but perfect their technology teaching craft,” said Dr. Joseph Lathan, director of the University of San Diego’s highly regarded online Master of Education degree program. “The M.Ed. EdTech degree was created as a response for teachers and other K-12 technology educators to effectively teach or provide high-level instructional technology support not limited to in-class, hybrid or remote learning.”

Ideal candidates for the M.Ed. in Educational Technology include a wide range of educators, PK-12 technology leaders and coaches, virtual and online instructors, and others who are seeking leadership positions and training in educational and assistive technology. Careers include:

Educational Specialist/Technologist

Technology Resource Teacher

TOSA (Teachers On Special Assignments)

Instructional Technology Specialist

Media Specialist

The innovative curriculum includes 10 courses (3 units each): including five core courses, four EdTech specialization courses, and one (elective) from one of the following USD M.Ed. specialization tracks:

● School Leadership

● Literacy and Digital Learning

● Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM)

● Inclusive Learning – Special Education and Universal Design (UDL)

The advanced degree program covers five 14-week semesters and is built with the flexibility for working professionals to earn their master’s degree in just 20 months while completing their studies 100% online.

Submitted by the University of San Diego.