Thank you for your interest in obtaining a license as an instructional technology specialist at the Simmons Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS).
This is a fully online, cohort-based program of four graduate-level courses (12 credits). The program is designed to provide the necessary coursework for teachers and school library teachers to obtain their Instructional Technology Licensure (ITL) in the state of Massachusetts. Program faculty are distinguished leaders in the school library and technology fields.
This program is for those who:
- Currently hold a master's in library and information science, in education, or in a related field, or,
- Have an initial or professional license as a teacher in Massachusetts
Please note: in order to receive the licensure, students must have three years of experience as a teacher in a Massachusetts public school. Students may be taking coursework at the same time that they are gaining that experience.
How to Apply
To apply for Fall 2012, please see our online application. The deadline for completed applications is Monday, July 16, 2012. If you are interested in applying for a term other than Fall 2012, or if you have any questions, please contact GSLIS Admission at (617) 521-2868 or gslisadm@simmons.edu.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Current tuition rates are listed at http://www.simmons.edu/gslis/admission/tuition/index.php. Those who graduated from Simmons (at either the undergraduate or graduate level) pay 50% of the rate for the term in which they enroll; all other students pay the full tuition rate. Unfortunately, licensure students do not qualify for loans or other financial aid.
Required Courses
The program consists of four courses taught in a fully online format. Learning is asynchronous with one course offered each semester.
LIS 511: Instructional Technology in Teaching and Learning
LIS 512: Advanced Uses of Instructional Technology in Teaching and Learning
LIS 513: Computer and Network Basics for Elementary and Secondary Schools
LIS 514: Instructional Technology Management and Implementation
See course descriptions below.
Course Sequencing
Beginning with Fall 2012 students are admitted once a year in Fall. The sequencing goes as follows:
| Semester | Spring 2012 Cohort |
Fall 2012 Cohort |
|---|---|---|
| LIS 511 |
Spring 2012 | Fall 2012 |
| LIS 512 |
Summer 2012 |
Spring 2013 |
| LIS 513 |
Fall 2012 | Summer 2013 |
| LIS 514 | Spring 2013 |
Fall 2013 |
Course Descriptions
LIS 511: Instructional Technology in Teaching and Learning
This course will build upon and enhance the knowledge gained in LIS 460 and further develop the ability of students to integrate technology into the curriculum, work with teachers in the integration of the use of technology in the classroom, and explore trends in teaching, learning, and instructional technology. The standards developed by the International Society for Technology in Education for students and teachers will be studied and strategies developed for their implementation. Students will develop technology rich units that meet defined goals, objectives, and benchmarks as required by the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and the Common Core. The Internet, educational software, including educational uses of word processing, databases, and spreadsheets; curricula resources available via Web 2.0; WebQuests, assessment, and multimedia programs will be examined to determine how these tools can be harnessed to advance teaching and learning and how they can be used to create motivating and meaningful learning environments for all children. Enabling students to take responsibility for their own learning through the use of technology will be developed.
LIS 512: Advanced Uses of Instructional Technology in Teaching and Learning
The roles of the instructional technology specialist and library teacher as key curriculum specialists, presenters, staff developers, and leaders in technology integration and implementation will be developed throughout this course. The methods instructional technology specialists can use to support teachers in the integration of instructional technology such as mentoring, consultation techniques, and professional development will also be studied. Students will explore emerging technologies and their possible use in K-12 education. There will be an opportunity for discussion of issues arising from technology implementation in the schools. Other topics to be explored include project based learning, virtual learning and virtual schools, learning management systems such as Blackboard, Web CT, Moodle, simulations, and games. The I.E.P., and the role of assistive adaptive technology in the inclusive classroom will be explored. This course provides an opportunity to learn about the latest resources: software and assistive technologies that can provide access for all learners.
LIS 513: Computer and Network Basics for Elementary and Secondary Schools
This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of computer hardware, operating systems, servers, networks, their use and maintenance. Basic concepts including set-up, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs will be developed. Students will learn technical language. Students will be prepared to make informed decisions about upgrading and replacing technology. This course will provide a basic understanding of computer and network architecture thus making use and maintenance of them accessible.
LIS 514: Instructional Technology Management and Implementation
The philosophy of the instructional technology program in education and its contribution to the overall aims of K-12 education will be explored. This course will provide instruction in the administration and management of the instructional technology program at the school and district levels. The information technology program will be studied with an emphasis on program development and the roles and responsibilities of the technology leader including vision, strategic planning, managing change, school finance (including budgeting), grant writing, equity, selection, evaluation and purchasing of hardware and software, professional development, mentoring, policy development, ethical and social issues surrounding privacy, copyright, and crime relating to educational technology and resources, as well as program evaluation. An emphasis will be placed on system-wide and school based program development, implementation, and coordination, methods of supervision, and new trends.