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The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences: Certificates:
Graduate Certificate in Engaging Culturally Diverse Learners (Quarter)

For students beginning their program August 26, 2024 or later 
Today’s classrooms serve students and families of great diversity. So it is essential that teachers develop self-awareness and knowledge with regard to the complex influences of culture, language, and life experiences and explore the nature of diversity in today’s society and in today’s schools.

The courses in this certificate program offer teachers opportunities to explore current theories, research, and effective practices related to student diversity. Teachers study ways to meet student needs through models such as the Universal Design by Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI) as well as how to integrate technology to customize instruction. Teachers also have hands-on experiences in building a repertoire of research-based strategies for diverse learning environments. The goal of the certificate is for teachers to develop an approach that is appropriate for their students.

Note on Endorsement, Licensure, or Certification

This program does not lead to an endorsement, certification, or licensure. Walden makes no representation, warranty, guarantee, or commitment that successful completion of this program or coursework for graduate credit within this program will permit a graduate to obtain state certification or licensure.

The graduate degree program and coursework within the program in which you are enrolling may be accepted by many states toward upgrading or renewing a license or obtaining a salary increase (depending on state or district policy). Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement. Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on program requirements; however, it remains the individual’s responsibility to understand and comply with all state and school district requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this certificate program will be prepared to:

  • Integrate major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to the role of culture in language development and academic achievement into planning that supports student learning.
  • Apply standards-based and performance-based language proficiency instruments to identify, place, and evaluate the language growth of ESOL students.

Certificate Requirements

  • 20 total quarter credits

Curriculum

  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.

Course Sequence

The recommended course sequence is as follows:

Quarter Course Credits
Quarter 1 MEDU 6650 - Enhancing Learning for Diverse Populations 5 quarter credits
MEDU 6732 - Differentiated Instruction    5 quarter credits 5 quarter credits
Quarter 2 MEDU 6714 - Reaching and Engaging All Learners Through Technology 5 quarter credits
MEDU 6657 - Creating an Effective Classroom Learning Environment 5 quarter credits