Dr. Bridget Groat
Email:bgroat@uwyo.edu
Also fulfills core course requirement for M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction (3 semester hours)
Provides teachers and other interested students with a better understanding of current
issues and social foundations of multicultural America. Enables more accurate educational
decisions related to utilizing the strengths and diversity of each cultural group.
*Student can petition for any 5000 level or above Diversity course to count towards this course requirement.
(3 semester hours)
This is one of five courses comprising the University of Wyoming Graduate Certificate Program for Teachers of American Indian Children. Our studies this semester will examine cultural, geographical, linguistic, spiritual, political, and societal factors before, during, and after colonization of the Americas. We will become familiar with the definitions and day-to-day realities of terms like ethnocentrism, cultural relativism, assimilation, acculturation, and institutional racism. From these understandings, we will develop insights into positive teacher-pupil-community relationships that honor culture and language differences and enhance achievement.
(3 semester hours)
This is the second course of the University of Wyoming Graduate Certificate Program
for Teachers of American Indian Children. Our studies this semester will address the
history of indigenous education focusing on Native American education in the U.S.
and Canada. We will examine the missionary influences, government programs, and tribal
initiatives. We will read and review documentary accounts of Native education, review
autobiographical accounts of Native teachers and children as we develop appreciation
of the complexity and difficulties of Native education. From these understandings,
we will develop insight necessary for development of appropriate teaching methods
and materials.
(3 semester hours)
This is the third course of the University of Wyoming Graduate Certificate Program
for Teachers of American Indian Children. Our studies this semester will address the
influence of sociological and psychological factors on learning and teaching. We will
examine the socio-cultural conditions, institutions, processes, and ideals the form
the basis of educational practices in Native American cultures. From these understandings,
we will develop insights into the conflicts and problems faced by many Native American
students and their families.
We will also examine the psychological foundations of Native American education. This
knowledge will provide us with insights about more effective teaching program and
practices. This course provides students with an in-depth study and analysis of the
educational experiences of Native Americans, focusing on contemporary educational
issues and experiences. It examines the impacts of cultural orientation, stereotype,
bias and other issues on the educational experiences and programs in meeting the needs
of Native Americans. Students will explore and critique a variety of successful instructional
practices and programs developed to address the needs of Native students.
(3 semester hours)
This is one of five courses that comprise the University of Wyoming Graduate Certificate
Program for Teachers of American Indian Children. Our studies this semester will address
culturally appropriate and culture-based methodologies for teaching Native students.
We will study two 20th century congressional reports and their recommendations that
the United States invest in special preparation and support of teachers to serve Native
American children. We will review documentary and autobiographical accounts of teachers,
children, and adults as we develop appreciation of the complexity and difficulties
of Native education. Our studies will also consider existing state and local standards
for American Indian education. From these foundations, we will acquire insight necessary
for curriculum development and application of appropriate teaching methods and materials
specific to the subjects we teach.
*Cross-listed with Curriculum & Instruction Education and can be counted toward a
graduate degree in C&I.
EDCI 4450/5450 - Issues in Multicultural Education (or any 5000 level or above Diversity
course approved by NAIS)
NAIS/EDCI 4110/5110 - Educational Foundations of Native American Education
NAIS/EDCI 5121 - History and Philosophy of Native American Education
NAIS/EDCI 5130 - Cultural Foundations of Native American Education
NAIS/EDCI 5141 - Instructional Methods in Native American Education
Dr. Bridget Groat
Email:bgroat@uwyo.edu