Instructional Technology (ISTC)

ISTC 301 INTEGRATING INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY (3)

Examines operations, applications, and affordances of technologies for learning and teaching. Offers hands-on experience in integrating learning technology into classroom activities. Critically examines strategies that use a variety of technology tools to create learning environments that actively engage students in projects where technology tools enhance the learning process. Laboratory experiences are provided in the operation of instructional hardware and software. Prerequisites: junior/senior standing or consent of department. Lab/Class fee will be assessed.

ISTC 303 CYBERSECURITY FOR EDUCATORS (3)

Introduces cybersecurity's legal, ethical, and practical dimensions within educational and learning environments. Emphasizing critical analysis and applied practice, students will examine digital citizenship, data privacy, cyber hygiene, secure use of educational technologies, and institutional cybersecurity policies. Through hands-on activities, case-based learning, and curriculum integration projects, participants will develop the knowledge, skills, and ethical awareness necessary to promote safe, inclusive, and responsible technology use in schools and broader educational contexts. Prerequisites: junior/senior standing or consent of department.

ISTC 304 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE APPLICATIONS IN EDUCATION (3)

Introduces educators to the foundational concepts, applications, and implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational contexts. Students will explore how AI-powered tools, such as adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring platforms, automated assessment technologies, and classroom management applications, can enhance teaching, personalize student learning, and support data-informed instructional decisions. Emphasizing hands-on exploration, critical analysis, and ethical reflection, the course equips future educators with the knowledge and practical skills to integrate AI technologies responsibly, equitably, and effectively into diverse classroom environments. Prerequisites: junior/senior standing or consent of department.

ISTC 470 SPECIAL TOPICS IN LEARNING & TEACHING COMPUTATIONAL THINKING (1)

Provides a deep understanding of computational thinking concepts and their application in PK-8 education. Through self-directed learning, students will explore computational thinking concepts, apply the concepts across various subject areas and grade levels, and develop proficiency in a block-based visual programming language. Completing the pre-post-assessments for each concept, a cumulative assessment of all CT concepts and reflection, and developing progressively complex coding projects are required. Prerequisite: junior/senior standing or consent of department.