MAT in Multidisciplinary Studies
The MAT in the Multidisciplinary Studies provides candidates with the essential knowledge and skills for current and future classrooms and other learning environments. The program is pertinent to educators preparing to work in elementary, secondary, and adult education contexts. The program emphasizes content mastery, curriculum development, understanding the learner, and authentic (“real world”) instruction and assessment, Selected courses in the Multidisciplinary Studies major are available online (Internet-based). It is possible to complete the multidisciplinary major with online courses in the nonemphasis track and in some emphasis areas. The program may be combined with courses for Initial Missouri Teacher Certification at the Webster University—Webster Groves Campus only.
Multidisciplinary Studies Goals
The goals of the Multidisciplinary Studies major are to enable candidates to:
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Develop a knowledge base in relevant discipline/content areas
- knows content that supports conceptual understanding
- applies tools of inquiry to construct meaningful learning experiences
- identifies developmental factors in student learning
- understands theoretical principles of effective instruction to plan learning experiences
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Demonstrate expertise with curriculum design
- designs curriculum based on students' prior knowledge, learning styles, strengths, and needs
- understands and uses a range of instructional strategies
- uses a variety of communication modes, media, and technology to support student learning
- employs a variety of formal and informal assessments to monitor learning and modify instruction
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Engage in reflective practice
- values and integrates reflection to grow as a professional
- promotes communication and collaboration with colleagues, families, and community leaders
- seeks relationships with families and students to support student learning
- initiates change that benefits students and their families
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Address individual differences among learners
- understands and responds appropriately to issues of diversity
- acknowledges social and cultural contexts to create effective teaching and learning environments
- adapts instruction to the learner's knowledge, ability, and background experience
- identifies resources for specialized services when needed
A total of 33 credit hours is required for this major. After completing at least 9 credit hours within an MAT major, all MAT degree-seeking students are required to apply for Advanced to Candidacy. Please refer to the section on Advancement to Candidacy in this catalog for specific guidelines.
Multidisciplinary Studies M.A.T. Major Required courses:
- EDUC 5460 Curriculum Design or EDUC 5800 Applied Research 3 hours
- EDUC 5220 Contemporary Educational Issues 3 hours
Core Courses
Students must complete any three of the following courses:
- COMM 5290 Interpersonal Communications 3 hours
- COMM 5530 Technology and Teaching or EDTC 5010 Introduction to Technologies for Educators: Classroom Technologies 3 hours
- EPSY 5160 Advanced Child Development, or ECED 5510 Cognitive Development: Implications for Early Childhood 3 hours
- EPSY 5170 Behavioral Management 3 hours
- SOCS 5840 Comparative Educational Systems 3 hours
- SPED 5830 Evaluation 3 hours
Non-Emphasis Area, Emphasis Area, and Missouri Initial Certification Tracks
Non-Emphasis Area Track: If the non-emphasis Multidisciplinary Studies track is selected, students complete 12 hours of electives among School of Education Graduate courses. The non-emphasis track is available entirely online or as a combination online and face-to-face courses.
Emphasis Area Track: Multidisciplinary Studies majors may choose to specialize in one of the emphasis areas listed below. If one of the emphasis areas listed below is selected, 12 credit hours (not including the required and core courses listed above) must be taken in the emphasis area. Not all emphasis areas are available online or at all Webster University campuses.
Missouri Teacher Certification Track: Multidisciplinary Studies majors may enroll concurrently in coursework required for a Missouri teaching certificate in elementary, middle school, or secondary education. Students should contact their faculty advisor for a program of study in Multidisciplinary Studies designed especially for certification seeking students. For more information on the requirements for Missouri teacher certification, please contact the Webster University Office of Teacher Certification.
Please note: Teacher certification programs are only available at the Webster University main campus (St. Louis, Missouri).
Additional Electives and Transfer Courses
Additional elective courses may include graduate courses in the School of Education, or approved transfer or in-service courses. (6 hours)
Multidisciplinary majors may choose to specialize in one of 16 emphasis areas. If one of the emphasis areas listed below is selected, 12 credit hours (not including the core courses) must be taken in the area. Special emphasis area requirements supersede the content area requirements ("Electives" section) above. Not all emphasis areas are available at all sites.
- aesthetic education
- communication arts
- early childhood education
- education for global sustainability
- educational psychology
- educational technology
- humane education and character development
- immigrant and refugee studies
- inclusive education
- international languages and cultures (French German, Spanish)
- language arts- elementary
- language arts- secondary
- mathematics
- science
- social science
- teaching English as a foreign language
- teaching English as a second language
Emphasis in Education for Global Sustainability
The emphasis in Education for Global Sustainability (EFGS) provides professionals in education and other disciplines the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to model and lead with the principles and practices of sustainability. The emphasis includes theory, research, and action planning for global environmental, economic, political, human rights and social justice issues. Students will take the following required courses:
- EFGS 5000 Foundations: Education for Global Sustainability (3)
- EFGS 5900 Reflections and Next Steps (1).
Remaining electives (total 12 hours) must include at least one course in each of the following topics of sustainability: 1) economics, 2) environmental issues, and 3) human rights, global issues, or social activism.
The following courses are available for the emphasis electives:
| Social Equity | EDUC 5111 Applications of International Experiences (3) |
| Social Equity | EDUC 5490 Seminars in Education (3) |
| Environmental | EFGS 5250 Child as Naturalist (3) |
| All three legs of Sustainability, TBD | EFGS 5260 Topics—Sustainability (1-3) |
| Environmental, Social Equity | EFGS 5270 Exploring Regions (2-3) |
| Economics, Environmental | SCIC 5080 Energy Conservation (3) |
| Environmental | SCIC 5270 Field and Forest Ecology (3) |
| Environmental | SCIC 5260 Fresh Water Ecology for School Personnel (3) |
| Environmental | SCIC 5280 Selected Topics in Biological Science (3) |
| Environmental | SCIC 5240 Animal Form and Function for School Personnel (3) |
| Social Equity | SOCS 5040 Modern Asian Civilization: Global Issues in China (3) |
| Economics | SOCS 5740 Consumer Education (3) |
Emphasis in Educational Psychology
12 credit hours (3 credits of required coursework, and 9 elective credits)
Teaching is both an art and a science. It is the field of psychology that provides a significant source of scientific insights into teaching. Through the study of psychology applied to education, MAT students learn about theory and research pertaining to learning, development, and motivation. Educational psychology coursework develops skills in several areas including self-assessment, reflective teaching, interpreting and evaluating research studies in education, and conducting educational research.
The study of educational psychology helps current and future teachers to appreciate differences in learning and to adapt teaching to individual learner's needs. In keeping with the mission of Webster University, MAT students with an emphasis in educational psychology are encouraged to gain "international perspectives" and to develop "a life long desire to learn and a commitment to contribute actively to their communities and the world."
Goals for Educational Psychology Emphasis
- Demonstrate knowledge of psychology applied to education.
- Understand, apply, and conduct educational research.
- Demonstrate respect for diversity through responsive teaching that values individual differences and international understanding.
- Develop self-assessment skills and the ability to reflect on roles educators can take as leaders of change.
Students seeking an emphasis in educational psychology should select EDUC 5800 Applied Research to fulfill the Multidisciplinary Studies major requirement.
Required course
- EPSY 5130 (formerly SOCS 5130) Educational Psychology 3 hours
Electives
Three courses (minimum of 3 credit hours per course) pertaining to educational psychology from the following list:
- EPSY 5060 (formerly SOCS 5060) Assessment and Evaluation of Academic Performance 3 hours
- EPSY 5110 (formerly SOCS 5110) Social and Personality Development 3 hours
- EPSY 5150 (formerly SOCS 5150) Self-Concept Development 3 hours
- EPSY 5160 (formerly SOCS 5160) Advanced Child Development 3 hours
- EPSY 5170 (formerly SOCS 5170) Behavioral Management 3 hours
- EPSY 5180 Advanced Educational Psychology 3 hours
- EPSY 5290 (formerly SOCS 5290) Family Counseling 3 hours
- EPSY 5370 (formerly SOCS 5370) Counseling 3 hours
- EPSY 5510 (formerly SOCS 5510) Psychosocial Aspects of Migration 3 hours
- EPSY 5520 (formerly SOCS 5520) Children, Culture, and Violence 3 hours
- EPSY 5540 (formerly SOCS 5540) Psychology of Early Adolescence 3 hours
- EPSY 5810 (formerly SOCS 5810) Adolescent Psychology 3 hours
- SPED 5830 Evaluation 3 hours
- EPSY 5880 (formerly SOCS 5880) Psychology of Memory and Learning 3 hours
- EPSY 5890 (formerly SOCS 5890) Psychology of Stress 3 hours
- EPSY 5980 (formerly SOCS 5980) Motivation in the Classroom for the 21st Century 3 hours
Emphasis in Educational Technology
Twelve credit hours, using at least two different course numbers from the following courses, are required:
- EDTC 5100 Teaching with Technology: Methods and Materials 2-3 hours
- EDTC 5250 Programming Languages (any topic) 3 hours
- EDTC 5290 Media Applications (any topic) 2-3 hours
- EDTC 5330 Theoretical Perspectives (any topic) 2-3 hours
- EDTC 5560 Internet Applications (any topic) 2-3 hours
- EDTC 5630 Advanced Topics in Classroom Technologies (any topic) 2-3 hours
Emphasis in Humane Education and Character Development
The emphasis in humane education and character development provides educators with coursework in the history, philosophy, and practice of humane education, character development, and environmental education. These movements have aimed to promote values such as empathy for all living beings and an appreciation and sense of stewardship for the natural environment.
The emphasis is designed to provide educators with the knowledge and skills necessary for instructional leadership in humane education and character development. Students will design, present, and evaluate curricula that integrates humane and environmental principles.
Twelve credit hours, using 6 credit hours from the required list below and 6 credit hours from the elective courses listed below.
Required Courses
- EDUC 5230 Foundations of Humane Education 3 hours
- SOCS 5050 Studies in Character Education 3 hours
Electives
- COMM 5051 The Role of Narrative in Humane Education 3 hours
- EPSY 5110 Social and Personality Development 3 hours
- EFGS 5000 Foundations for Global Sustainability 3 hours
EDUC 5010 Introduction to Online Graduate Studies (3)
This course provides (a) the technical vocabulary and skills for successfully participating in online (Internet-based) graduate courses; and (b) professional/academic library research skills. Participants learn to search and locate articles in electronic databases in professional education. They learn to conduct online collaboration through virtual teaming, discussion, and chat tools.
EDUC 5020 Foundations of Education (3)
This course provides an overview of social, historical, and philosophical bases of current school practice and organization. Analysis of issues and problems in schools is a focus of this course. This course is recommended for individuals with limited classroom experience and will include an embedded practicum.
EDUC 5100 Multidisciplinary Education (3)
Students select a curriculum area in which they wish to improve their skills; they proceed to examine ways in which the subject could be taught using ideas from mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts. This is followed with explanations and demonstrations that indicate the student is capable of teaching his or her selected curriculum using a multidisciplinary approach.
EDUC 5111 Classroom Applications of International Experiences (1-3)
This course enables teachers to build curriculum and instructional materials on the history, culture, language, literature, arts, religion, science, or politics of an international culture or country. Traditional sources (including books, journal articles and library resources), multimedia resources (web resources, photos, videos) as well as first hand immersion experiences (observations, interviews, travel journal experiences) at an international destination are integrated into curriculum units, multimedia presentations and other instructional materials. The course may be repeated for credit if the topic or international destination differs.
EDUC 5200 Independent Study (1-3)
MAT students with special interests or needs that are not met by existing curricula may request that a member of the faculty supervise an independent study. Together the student and faculty member decide the content of the independent study and the criteria for evaluation. In no case can an independent study be set up when an existing course already covers the subject.
EDUC 5210 In-Service Education (1-4)
Webster offers various graduate in-service courses that are not part of the existing MAT curricula but provide experiences important to the academic and professional development of educators. Consult the semester course listings for specific topics. Prerequisite: prior approval of the MAT advisor.
EDUC 5220 Contemporary Educational Issues (3)
This foundation course is an overview of important educational topics. It is designed to identify and analyze current educational issues through reading, writing, discussing, and presenting ideas. Individuals explore historical perspectives, philosophical theories, and sociologic influences that are related to contemporary educational concerns.
EDUC 5230 Foundations of Humane Education (3)
This course focuses on the foundation of humane education including the definition, history, psychology, and development of the movement. The scope of humane education will be broadened by the study and appreciation of all animals (both human and non-human) and the environment. Students also integrate principles of humane education into classroom instruction.
EDUC 5300 Methods of Teaching Elementary School Students (3)
This course focuses on multiple factors affecting the elementary curriculum, including lesson planning, organizational strategies, instructional techniques, and student assessment. Competencies in the content areas of physical education, health, art, and music are addressed as well. Prerequisites: EDUC 5220 or COMM 5670 or EDUC 5020 (recommended for those individuals who have limited classroom experience)
EDUC 5410 In-Service Topics (3)
In-service courses are designed to provide MAT degree-seeking students with practical applications of contemporary research and methodology to improve classroom effectiveness. These courses may be approved for the MAT with prior written approval of the student's advisor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
EDUC 5460 Curriculum Design (3)
This course is designed to help individuals plan learning experiences. Topics included are technology in the classroom, research regarding learning, models of curriculum design, and methods of evaluation. Each student develops a curriculum package that has direct application to his or her particular teaching situation.
EDUC 5490 Seminars in Education (1-3)
Seminars are designed to focus on contemporary research and classroom application of these data. Different topic designations may be repeated for credit.
EDUC 5750 Special Institute (1-3)
Webster offers various institutes to provide a wide range of workshop experiences and contemporary topics within the multidisciplinary program. For more specific and current information, contact the MAT Office. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
EDUC 5800 Applied Research (3)
This course enables students, through action research projects, to develop strategies for problem solving within their classrooms and procedures for conducting self-study as it relates to, but is not limited to, teacher behaviors, learning outcomes, curriculum, policy development, and behavior management. Prerequisites: advancement to candidacy and permission of the instructor. This course may be substituted for EDUC 5460 Curriculum Design.
EDUC 6000 Advanced Graduate Certificate Project (3)
The advanced graduate certificate (AGC) project is the culminating experience in the AGC program. The student chooses a faculty member to supervise this final project. Examples include a presentation or demonstration for an MAT class, a school district, a local board of education, or a community group; a paper or research project which might be published or distributed within an appropriate school, community group, or for a large audience; or an action project designed and implemented within the student's place of employment.
EFGS 5000 Foundations: Education for Global Sustainability (3)
This course will provide an understanding of Global Sustainability and guide participants in ways to incorporate the information into their classrooms. EFGS 5030 should be taken within the first 9 hours of the program. Content will provide understanding in addressing environmental issues and the relationship between the environment, economy and global community. Crucial for today’s P12 students, this framework will also provide candidates with the tools to go beyond identifying environmental problems and prepare them to envision the path towards a healthier future for all sentient beings.
EFGS 5250 Child as Naturalist (3)
This course examines the phenomena of humanity's disconnection from nature, how this affects children, the ramification of this global attitude, and ways to reverse the trend. Outdoor education methodology will be included. Through activities and discussions, the instructor will introduce techniques and experiences that encourage a conservation ethic and nurture environmental awareness in children. While a survey of environmental themes will be key, emphasis will be placed on the importance of nature experiences for children.
EFGS 5260 Topics in Education for Global Sustainability (1-3)
This course provides candidates with practical applications of contemporary research and methodology to improve classroom effectiveness while considering the goals and concepts of sustainability. The specific topic of this course will change depending on the instructor, but will always help teachers to better understand the relationships between a healthy natural environment, economic stability, and social justice. Different topic designations may be repeated for credit. Suggested topics: Human Rights; Hunger, Poverty, & Public Health; Educational Access (global); The Digital Divide; The Global Achievement Gap; The Watershed Project; Conflict Resolution & Peace Studies; Spirituality & Sustainability; Psychology of Sustainability; Curriculum & School Organization for Global Sustainability; Globalization (Interdisciplinary: History, Economics, Environmental, Political Science, Technology); Global Competence, Citizenship, & Leadership; Collaborative & Synergistic Organizations & Systems
EFGS 5270 Exploring Regions (3)
This course introduces students to techniques and resources for learning specifics about the natural history (nature, geography, and indigenous people) of a specific region. After learning these approaches, the group meets in a designated natural environment and spends a week applying the methods to unravel the mysteries and treasures of that region. This is an online course with one week face-to-face in the field.
EFGS 5900 Reflections and Next Steps (0)
After 17 hours of a variety of courses, the EFGS emphasis student will be eligible for university certification by taking this final course.
SCIC 5010 Introduction to Science and Science Teaching (3)
This course enables students to understand the major content and principles of the sciences and to apply them in the teaching of the sciences in the elementary and middle school. Emphasis is on examining and designing curriculum to help pupils discover the connections of science to real-world situations, to investigate patterns through inquiry, and to use the patterns to predict the answers to new questions about our world and sustainability. Participants become familiar with and apply state and national standards.
SCIC 5020 Adventure Education: Personal Development (2)
This course recognizes that personal development is a prerequisite to professional growth. Intensive challenge using both natural and urban environments is the vehicle for students to look at themselves; to learn to trust themselves and a group; to learn that some tasks require more than normal effort; and to learn that they have the resources to give.
SCIC 5080 Energy Conservation (1)
Data on U.S. and world energy consumption and reserves are presented with conservation activities for both personal and classroom use. The course provides discussion of the design of buildings for maximum use of solar energy and home energy conservation.
SCIC 5100 Adventure Education: Cooperation and Initiative Tasks (3)
This course focuses on group initiative games, ropes initiative courses, and orienteering. Students design and use group initiative games. They experience and develop group leadership skills on ropes initiative courses. The course includes the opportunity to earn Level I and Level II certification for use of ropes initiative courses in St. Louis area parks. (This certification involves an additional $5.00 fee.) Basic skills in orienteering will be emphasized. Students increase their abilities to take initiative, make decisions, and work cooperatively. NOTE: This course can be taken for CR/NC only.
SCIC 5120 Geology for School Personnel (1-3)
Students in this course look at a particular land area and the kinds of tools a geologist would use to gather information about the area. The emphasis is on the kinds of tools the geologist uses so that the teacher is able to use these tools on a land area near the classroom.
SCIC 5240 Animal Form and Function for School Personnel (3)
This course covers the physiological processes as they concern the whole animal. Animals chosen are those that can be kept in elementary school classrooms. The experiments deal with animals and humans, and many are applicable to the student's classroom.
SCIC 5260 Fresh Water Ecology for School Personnel (3)
This course is designed to acquaint teachers with the fresh water environments of this area and how they may be used in the classroom. There are six required field trips (one all-day), with others optional. The emphasis is on making equipment, learning to use it, identifying organisms, field trip experiences, and human beings' effects on the fresh water environment.
SCIC 5270 Field and Forest Ecology (1-3)
This course is a field study of plant and animal organisms found in fields and forests. Students consider relationships to environment and population changes, and develop specific activities applicable to their classrooms.
SCIC 5280 Selected Topics in Biological Science (3)
Materials and content selected from the biological sciences apply directly to the student's classroom. The specific topics to be studied during any particular semester depend on the instructor's background, current interest, and materials available from curriculum projects. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
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