Program Description
The Master of Science in Educational Technology is a graduate program designed to equip educators, instructional designers, and technology specialists with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate technology effectively into the learning process. This program combines a strong foundation in educational theory with practical experience in the use of current technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and administration across a variety of educational settings. Throughout the program, students will explore how to design, implement, and evaluate digital learning environments, focusing on key areas such as e-learning, multimedia tools, educational software, mobile learning, and virtual classrooms. Emphasis is placed on understanding how technology can address diverse learning needs, improve learner engagement, and increase the accessibility and effectiveness of education. Graduates of the Master of Science in Educational Technology will be prepared to take on leadership roles in schools, universities, corporate training departments, and educational technology firms, using their expertise to drive innovation, improve educational outcomes, and support lifelong learning in the digital age. Learners in this program are required to take the following 11 course for a total of 36 credit hours:
Course Outline
Course No. Course Title Credit Hours
Common Core
MSET 500 Foundations of Educational Technology - 3
MSET 501 Instructional Design - 3
MSET 502 Learning Theories and Application - 3
MSET 503 Educational Research Methods - 3
Total 12
Concentration
MSET 600 Digital Learning Environments - 3
MSET 601 Learning Analytics - 3
MSET 602 Multimedia and Visual Communication in Education - 3
MSET 603 Game-Based Learning and Gamification - 3
MSET 604 Emerging Technologies in Education - 3
MSET 605 Universal Design for Learning - 3
Total 18
Exam or Thesis Choose One
MSET 698 Capstone - 6
MSET 699 Thesis - 6
Total 6
PROBRAM TOTAL 36
MSET 500: Foundations of Educational Technology
This course provides a foundational overview of the history, theories, and principles of educational technology, setting the stage for understanding its role in contemporary education. Students will explore the evolution of educational technology, tracing its development from early educational tools and methodologies to the integration of digital technologies such as computers, the internet, and mobile devices in classrooms and learning environments. By examining key milestones in the history of educational technology, students will gain insight into how technology has transformed teaching and learning over the decades. The course also covers the major theoretical frameworks that guide the use of technology in education, such as constructivism, behaviorism, and connectivism. These theories will help students understand how technology can be used to enhance learning experiences, foster critical thinking, and promote collaboration among students. Emphasis will be placed on the pedagogical principles behind the design and use of educational technologies, exploring concepts like learner-centered teaching, differentiated instruction, and accessibility. Moreover, students will study the principles that underpin effective technology integration, such as the SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition) and the TPACK framework (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge). These models provide a structured approach for evaluating and implementing technology in various educational contexts, ensuring that it enhances teaching without overwhelming or replacing traditional methods.
MSET 501: Instructional Design
This course focuses on the systematic design, development, and evaluation of instructional materials and teaching strategies that effectively integrate technology into the learning process. Students will learn how to create engaging, interactive, and pedagogically sound learning experiences that leverage various technological tools and platforms to enhance student-learning outcomes. The course begins with an exploration of instructional design models such as ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) and Kemp's Instructional Design Model, which provide structured approaches to creating educational content. Students will develop skills in designing multimedia-based instructional materials, including digital presentations, e-learning modules, video lectures, interactive simulations, and educational games. Special attention is given to selecting appropriate technologies that align with specific learning goals and cater to diverse learner needs. In addition to designing materials, students will learn how to develop these materials using various software and tools. They will work with learning management systems (LMS), multimedia editing software, and online collaboration platforms to create and deliver content. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring accessibility, usability, and inclusivity in all digital materials, making learning opportunities available to students with diverse learning styles and abilities.
MSET 502: Learning Theories and Applications
This course delves into the foundational learning theories—cognitive, behavioral, and constructivist—and explores how these theories inform and guide the use of technology in modern educational settings. The course emphasizes understanding how learners process information and how different learning environments, supported by technology, can be designed to foster optimal learning outcomes. Throughout the course, students will analyze how these three theoretical approaches can be integrated and applied in technology-enhanced learning environments to support diverse learners. They will also explore the role of teachers and instructional designers in selecting appropriate technologies that align with learning goals and pedagogical strategies. By understanding and applying cognitive, behavioral, and constructivist principles, students will be equipped to design and implement technology-driven learning experiences that promote deeper understanding, engagement, and skill development in learners.
MSET 503: Educational Research Methods
Students will begin by exploring various research designs that are commonly used in educational technology studies. These include experimental, quasi-experimental, case study, action research, and ethnographic designs. The course will highlight the importance of selecting an appropriate research design based on the research question, the educational context, and the technological tools being studied. Students will learn how to form research hypotheses, define variables, and set clear, measurable objectives. Emphasis will also be placed on ethical considerations in educational technology research, ensuring that studies adhere to ethical guidelines regarding participant consent, data privacy, and responsible reporting of results.
MSET 600: Digital Learning Environments
This course explores the design, development, and implementation of digital learning environments to enhance teaching and learning experiences. Students will examine a wide range of digital tools, platforms, and strategies for creating engaging, interactive, and effective online and blended learning spaces. The course covers key aspects of digital learning, including the use of Learning Management Systems (LMS), multimedia content creation, virtual classrooms, and collaborative technologies. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how to integrate various digital resources to foster student engagement, support diverse learning styles, and promote collaborative learning. Students will also explore the challenges of digital learning environments, such as accessibility, equity, and the evaluation of online learning effectiveness. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to design and implement dynamic digital learning environments that meet the needs of contemporary learners.
MSET 601: Learning Analytics
This course focuses on the use of data and analytics to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. Students will explore various techniques and tools for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting learning data to improve educational practices. The course covers key topics such as learning management systems (LMS) data, student performance metrics, predictive analytics, and data visualization. Students will learn how to apply learning analytics to identify trends, assess learning behaviors, personalize learning experiences, and optimize course design. Additionally, ethical considerations related to data privacy and the responsible use of student data will be addressed. By the end of the course, students will be able to leverage learning analytics to make informed decisions that support student success and improve educational effectiveness.
MSET 602: Multi-Media and Visual Communication in Education
This course explores the integration of multimedia and visual communication tools in educational settings to enhance learning and teaching experiences. Students will learn how to design, create, and utilize multimedia elements such as videos, animations, infographics, and interactive graphics to effectively convey complex concepts and engage learners. The course emphasizes the importance of visual literacy and how to apply visual communication principles to instructional design. Students will explore various digital tools and software for content creation, as well as strategies for incorporating multimedia into both online and face-to-face learning environments. Ethical considerations in using multimedia content, accessibility for diverse learners, and ensuring content alignment with learning objectives will also be addressed. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in creating visually compelling and educationally effective multimedia resources to support diverse learning needs.
MSET 603: Game-Based Learning and Gamification
This course explores the principles and practices of incorporating game elements and game-based strategies into educational settings to enhance student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. Students will examine the theory behind game-based learning and gamification, including key concepts like reward systems, challenges, points, badges, and leaderboards. The course covers the design and implementation of educational games, simulations, and gamified activities that align with learning objectives. Students will also explore the benefits and challenges of using game-based learning, including issues of accessibility, equity, and the balance between fun and educational value. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to integrate game mechanics and game-based approaches into their teaching methods to create dynamic and motivating learning experiences.
MSET 604: Emerging Technologies in Education
This course examines the latest technological innovations and their potential impact on teaching and learning. Students will explore cutting-edge tools, platforms, and technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), blockchain, and adaptive learning systems. The course focuses on understanding how these emerging technologies can be integrated into educational settings to enhance learning experiences, improve student engagement, and support personalized learning. Students will evaluate the benefits and challenges of adopting new technologies, considering factors such as accessibility, cost, and scalability. Ethical issues related to the use of emerging technologies, including data privacy and digital equity, will also be discussed. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically assess and apply emerging technologies to design innovative and future-focused educational experiences.
MSET 605: Universal Design for Learning
This course focuses on the principles and practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework for creating inclusive and accessible educational experiences. Students will explore the three main UDL principles: providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression to accommodate diverse learners’ needs and preferences. The course covers strategies for designing flexible learning environments that support all students, including those with disabilities, English language learners, and students with varied learning styles. Students will learn how to apply UDL guidelines to create curriculum, instructional materials, and assessments that are both accessible and engaging. Ethical considerations, such as equity and the use of assistive technologies, will also be addressed. By the end of the course, students will be able to implement UDL principles in their own teaching practices, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed.
MSET 698: Capstone
Capstone Project: The Capstone in Educational Technology course provides students with the opportunity to apply their learning to real-world challenges in the field of educational technology.
MSET 699: Thesis
The Thesis in Educational Technology provides students with an opportunity to engage in independent, in-depth research on a topic related to the integration of technology in education. This course allows students to explore a specific issue, challenge, or innovation in educational technology through systematic inquiry. Students will formulate a research question, conduct a literature review, design a research methodology, and gather and analyze data. The thesis encourages students to make a meaningful contribution to the field of educational technology by developing original insights or proposing practical solutions that address current educational needs. Throughout the process, students will refine their academic writing, critical thinking, and research skills. The final thesis document, which includes a comprehensive analysis of findings and recommendations, is presented in a formal defense to faculty, demonstrating the student’s ability to conduct high quality, scholarly research.