Physical Education Teaching Option
Course Descriptions:
Introduction to Research
EFN 730 Credits 3
Present purposes, methods, and techniques in the conduct of research. Emphasis on understanding the product of current
research. Each student is guided through a self-selected problem.
Interpretation of Statistical Data
EFN 735 Credits 3
An introductory course in statistics with the essential purpose of providing scholars with the tools to interpret and evaluate the results of research.
Diversity in the Physical Activity Setting
ESS 725 Credits 2
The class will address racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and disability issues for which physical education teachers should have an awareness. The purpose of the course will be to sensitize the students to the fact that diversity is part of life in America and that a teacher must recognize that differences need to be understood and reflected upon so that the teacher
can help all students have a positive educational experience. Pedagogical methods for integrating students will be addressed, such as inclusion techniques for students with a disability, culturally diverse games, and appropriate behavior management techniques.
Critical Analysis Project: Special Physical Education
ESS 736 Credits 3
This is a required course for the special physical education master’s degree non-thesis option program. The student will propose an issue/problem for approval by the analysis committee. Upon approval, the student will conduct an indepth analysis of the issue/problem. The end product will be a written document describing the student’s analysis and an oral presentation with the analysis committee. Prerequisite: ESS 530, 536, and EFN 730.
Curriculum Design in Physical Education
ESS 737 Credits 3
This course will provide an in-depth review of a variety of traditional and contemporary curricular models for physical education. Topics relating to philosophical perspectives/ belief systems inherent in various types of programs will be included. Additional emphasis will also be given to designing and producing an elementary, junior/middle, or high school
curriculum for the future and the evaluation model which could be used to assess its effectiveness.
Assessment of Physical Education and Athletics
ESS 752 Credits 3
This course is designed for practitioners in the fields of physical education and athletics. Students will learn to utilize assessment strategies and data to improve instruction and program effectiveness. Emphasis on the use of assessment data to document effectiveness and increase accountability of physical education and athletic programs. Prerequisite: ESS 321 or equivalent.
Analysis and Supervision of Physical Education
ESS 759 Credits 3
Designed to present current research related to effective teaching in physical education, provide quantitative and qualitative techniques to gather information about and analyze teaching, and how to apply the principles of clinical supervision in physical education for the improvement of instruction. Additional emphasis will also be given to the personal assessment of teaching and the need for and characteristics of effective staff development activities.
Current Issues in Physical Education
ESS 771 Credits 2-3
Identification of current trends and issues in physical education. Emphasis on development of methods for resolving issues. Opportunities for the student to pursue professional issues of current interests will be encouraged. Repeatable for up to 6 credits with program director permission.
Research: Master’s Thesis
ESS 799 Credits 6
An independent research project is to be selected and executed under the direction of a staff member by those students electing to write a thesis. The project may be in any of the areas related to physical education, such as health, recreation, or athletics.
See the current Graduate Course catalog for Elective Course offerings and descriptions.