Master of Arts in Reading
Portrait of a Literacy Educator

The Department of Reading and Educational Media is committed to the development of literacy educators who:

1. continue to inquire into the nature of teaching and learning and reflect upon professional practice

• know philosophies and theories of literacy instruction,
• possess knowledge of the reading process, language development, cognition, and learning.
• demonstrate knowledge of assessment principles and techniques.
• demonstrate knowledge of appropriate instructional strategies.
• are effective communicators who share information about reading with colleagues, parents, and the public.
• are technologically literate and know how technology facilitates learning and enhances literacy.
• model a commitment to lifelong learning and literacy development.

2. possess the skills dispositions necessary to create literacy environments which stimulate critical thinking and inquiry

• can organize and plan effective literacy programs for the classroom, school, and district levels.
• instill an enthusiasm in others, for the delights and rewards of literacy development.
• possess the interpersonal skills and dispositions to work cooperatively and collaboratively with colleagues.

3. understand the principles of democracy and the roles of literacy and critical thinking within a democracy

• possess the literacy and critical-thinking abilities associated with the concept of an educated person
• plan instruction to promote critical reflection about the ideas, values, and practices of citizenship based upon democratic principles.

4. understand and are committed to the moral, ethical, and enculturating responsibilities of those who work in the school

• believe in the educability of all children and
• seek to ensure equitable learning opportunities for every student.

5. model respect for individual differences and an appreciation of the basic worth of each individual

• plan instruction with sensitivity to issues of class, gender, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and special needs; and
• work to foster an appreciation of diversity among students, colleagues, and parents.

6. are committed to renewal and best practice in the schools.

TO APPLY TO THIS PROGRAM, PLEASE VISIT
http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/prospective/app.shtml