This course provides an introduction to research methods and exposition. Students will acquire fundamental skills in developing and conducting research through the creation of an effective research question, how to write a review of the literature, and develop an understanding of the principles of quantitative and qualitative research methods. In addition, students will gain an understanding of principles of data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of results.
- Teacher: Julie Small
This foundational course introduces and develops a frame of assumptions for strengths-based philosophy, as well as creates a framework for dealing with students from a strengths perspective. Originating from the fields of positive psychology, this course will familiarize students with elements of Seligman’s theory of Positive Psychology, Clifton’s Strengths perspectives, and Purkey’s Invitational Theory. Students will develop a new paradigm that will provide a differentiated lens to observe and evaluate students. The underlying assumption being that all students have talents and potential strengths that can provide a mechanism for performance excellence. Leaders are charged with assisting students in the discovery, development, and application of these strengths
- Teacher: Norman Lorenz
Based upon a background of positive psychology (Seligman), and strengths psychology (Clifton) strength-based leadership emphasizes the development of employee strengths, rather than the remediation of individual weaknesses as a way of doing business. Using the framework of strength-based leadership, students will learn how to apply leadership theory in a way which promotes a culture of commitment, rather than simply compliance. Students will study their own strengths and how to build an educational community around the strengths of each employee to move their schools to greater academic achievement. Florida Leadership Standards will be addressed via a crosswalk of the strength-based approach to traditional leadership practice.
- Teacher: Norman Lorenz
Using acquired knowledge of historical and current school finance concepts students will review applicable state, federal and private revenue considerations. Additionally, students will explore funding procedures including computation, accounting, auditing and reporting within the framework of planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating a school budget.
- Teacher: Connie Laufersky
This course for Montessori Guides covers the basic underpinnings of Montessori Education, including a thorough examination of Montessori's view of physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of human life and development. The course will focus on the philosophical and educational theories that provide the basis of the Montessori method. Basic principles to be explored include Theory, Sensitive Periods, Preparation of the Teacher, Absorbent Mind, Curriculum Theory, child development, etc.
- Teacher: Luz Johnston