- Do you want to qualify as a compulsory school teacher?
- Do you want the opportunity to do a paid student placement?
- Do you want a flexible programme?
- Are you interested in teaching in compulsory schools?
- Are you interested in completing a graduate degree?
The MEd in teaching in primary grades is a theoretical and vocational 120 ECTS programme exploring pedagogy with a particular focus on teaching and learning in the younger grades of Icelandic compulsory schools.
Students learn about modern perceptions of children and education, fundamental ideas about childhood education, and how to create a learning environment that prioritises education, participation, empowerment, democratic values and wellbeing.
Emphasis is placed on the development of studies, planning the learning environment, and diverse methods for assessing children’s learning in compulsory school subjects.
Programme structure
The programme is 120 ECTS and is organised as two years of full-time study. It can also be completed by studying part time for three or four years.
The programme is made up of:
- Mandatory courses, 55 ECTS
- Restricted electives, 15 ECTS
- Free electives, 20 ECTS
- Final project, 30 ECTS
The final project must be related to teaching and learning in the primary grades.
Organisation of teaching
Teaching and examinations are in Icelandic.
The programme is generally taught through blended learning, with two face-to-face blocks per semester.
Student placements are a key part of the programme and each student is assigned a school to do their professional training.
Many courses offer real-time distance teaching, though requirements may vary and students are encouraged to check carefully how each course is taught.
Main objectives
The programme aims to provide students with knowledge of teaching and learning in preschools and primary grades.
Other
Upon graduation from a teacher's program at an Icelandic university, a teacher must have a competency in Icelandic that corresponds to a minimum of C1 in the European Language Framework.
All students graduate with a licence to teach at three levels of the education system, from preschools to upper secondary schools.
Completing the programme allows a student to apply for doctoral studies.
A bachelor's degree (B.Ed.) in compulsory school teacher education, normally with a first-class grade (7.25) or above.
For the final examen, 120 ECTS credits must be completed. After completing a programme in teacher education at an Icelandic university, a teacher should have reached a level of competence in Icelandic that corresponds to a minimum of C1 according to the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR), comparing the regulation number 1355/2022.
- CV
- Statement of purpose
- Reference 1, Name and email
- Reference 2, Name and email
- Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts
Further information on supporting documents can be found here
Programme structure
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
This programme does not offer specialisations.
- First year
- Fall
- Learning and teaching: Supporting children with special needs
- Working in inclusive practices
- Research on early childhood education
- Spring 1
- Introduction to quantitative Research
- Introduction to qualitative research
- Education for sustainability – skills in a changing world
Learning and teaching: Supporting children with special needs (MAL102F, KME115F)
In this course students explore teaching of diverse groups in inclusive settings, emphasizing strategies to address diverse educational and sociological needs of students, guided by human values, democracy and social justice. The emphasis is on evidence-based strategies to address the most common students´ special needs related to reading difficulties, behavioral difficulties, attention deficit, hyperactivity, and autism spectrum disorder. At the same time the use of respectful, person-first language, putting strengths and talents of students in the foreground, is stressed. Multicultural teaching and teaching of students learning Icelandic as a second language will be addressed. Students will be introduced to classroom management strategies, individualized behavior support, multi-disciplinary and parent collaboration. The course focus is on inclusive, evidence-based practices that aim to provide students with special needs opportunities equal to those of their classmates.
Working in inclusive practices (MAL102F, KME115F)
The course aims to prepare participants to draw on their resources in their work with diverse groups of students. In the course, we draw on inclusive education theories and research, emphasizing a holistic and creative approach to preparation and teaching at the forefront. Furthermore, a focus is put on teaching strategies and educative assessment that works for diverse groups of students, and adapting teaching and learning to students with special needs.
Content
The focus of the course is on inclusive practices. How to create a learning environment that cares for all students learning is introduced. The focus is also on collaboration with parents, colleagues, professionals, and paraprofessionals.
Work process
The course is a blended course online and on campus. It is divided into four main themes. All the themes connect to teaching in inclusive educational settings. The focus on each theme is three or four weeks.
The teaching is through lectures, projects, collaboration, discussions in class, on canvas, and in formal assignments. The course is grounded in students' independence, responsibility, and participation.
Research on early childhood education (KME109F)
The main focus of the course is on early childhood education and research within the field. Various topics and controversial issues will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on different views on children and childhood, cooperation between playschool and primary school, teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and cooperation between school and family.
Introduction to quantitative Research (MVS213F)
Students in this course are expected to deepen their knowledge and skills in quantitative research methodology. Students will use a computer program for data analysis, with emphasis on interpretation and writing about research results. Students are expected to develop positive attitudes toward research and the value of research in educational and social settings.
Introduction to qualitative research (MVS212F)
This course focuses on qualitative research methods. It looks at different movements and traditions in research methodology and their relationship to the structure and execution of research. The course also touches on the ethics of research, validity and different views of these concepts. Students will conduct a small research project, which provides training in a literature review, data collection, data analysis, and presentation of research findings. Students work as a team throughout the semester.
Readings, lectures, in-class discussion and group work. Sessions for distance students are held twice during the semester and participation is mandatory
Education for sustainability – skills in a changing world (FAG201F)
The purpose of this course is to work with conceptual issues in sustainability and global initiative such as those being implemented by the UNESCO. Examples of problems in the environment and nature will be explored, f.ex. climate change, decrease in number of species, soil erosion and pollution. Emphasis will be on the role of teachers in dealing with controversial issues and how they can teach children to analyse problems, evaluate information and put forward possible solutions. Participants read and use research about sustainability education. Participants will also examine their own angle to sustainability, their values and behaviour.
It is obligatory to attend classes during On Campus weeks, according to the academic calendar for School of Education.
- Second year
- Fall
- Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional
- Spring 1
- Final project
- Learning and teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field
Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional (KME301F)
This course focuses on providing the student teachers with competences for becoming professionals in their field, with focus on their subject area, and supporting them in laying the foundation for their own professional working theory. This will be obtained by building up knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities which is imbued in teaching and the skills needed for self evaluation in various situations in the field. An emphasis is also put on providing the student teachers with skills regarding the role of the classroom teacher and classroom management; team-teaching and co-operative skills; how to deal with traumatic experiences and children's welfare; and working with parents. Furthermore, research on school development, school evaluation and school ethos will be looked into together with research on teachers. Finally this will be linked with practicum.
Emphasis is on interactive lectures, inquiry and reflective studies, seminars, group work, projects, portfolios, field studies and fieldwork.
Final project (GKY401L)
The M.Ed. final project is an individual project of 30 ECTS credits. Students work on the project independently under the guidance of a project supervisor/supervisors chosen from among the academic staff at the School of Education. Students should consult the chair of their department on the choice of a project supervisor.
The thesis/project topic is chosen by the student in collaboration with his or her project supervisor and the department chair. The topic of the project should fall within the student's area of study, i.e. programme of study and chosen specialisation.
Various types of projects are permitted, for example, research essays, independent research projects, the development of new curricula or study materials.
Students sign up for the final project/thesis during annual registration via the Ugla Intraweb, and should register based on estimated progress in the fall and spring semester. In general, preparation for and work on the project takes at least two semesters. In some programmes the thesis is expected to spread over two or three semesters according to specific instructions, see under programme structure in the Course Catalogue for each programme.
Master´s projects are not awarded numerical grades but are marked pass or fail. Evaluation of projects are according to rules of the School of Education.
Students should follow the more detailed instructions and rules for M.Ed. projects set by the School of Education. See the School of Education intraweb, Ugla: Schools >> School of Education >> Master´s projects
Learning and teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field (GKY401F)
The main task of this course is fieldwork at the primary level of compulsory school. The emphasis is on actual teaching practice and giving the students opportunities to discuss, evaluate, reflect, and develop their teaching. Students will develop a teaching plan based on the national curriculum guide and school curricula. They will analyse incidents from their practice to learn from and improve their teaching. A range of teaching methods will be explored and applied in teaching in the field.
Students are in the field the whole semester in both courses (KME301F Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional and GKY401F Learning and Teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field) and attend regular classes at the university. Emphasis is on interactive lectures, self-study, group work, and projects. The course of study is directly related to field practice. Various issues will be explored with concrete examples from school practice. Students read chosen materials and research on school practice, both provided by lecturers and chosen by students.
- Year unspecified
- Whole year courses
- Mentor in Sprettur
- Fall
- Social Skills Training and Empowering with focus on positive classroom management
- Development in educational institutions
- Not taught this semesterSustainability in textiles
- Not taught this semesterLeadership in inclusive schools in multicultural society
- Spring 1
- Gender and education
- Introduction to data analysis using jamovi
- Applied multilevel modeling using jamovi
- Not taught this semesterRole of middle managers in schools
- Designhistory - fashion, textiles and furniture
- Gender and education
- Participation in research in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy
- Literature and the fundamental pillars of education
- Year unspecified
- Literacy and dyslexia in language education
- Icelandic and the education of multilingual students
- Health behaviour and food choice
- Gender equality in schools
- Mathematics for diverse student group
- Multilingualism and literacy
- Not taught this semesterDevelopment of young children's mathematical ideas
- Not taught this semesterThe Spectrum of Teaching Methods - Differentiated Instruction
- Not taught this semesterDesign history
- Art and Design History
- Action research
- Research and development in science education
- Distance Education
- Learning and teaching on the Internet
- Not taught this semesterQueer pedagogy
- Not taught this semesterReligions in a multicultural society
Mentor in Sprettur (GKY001M)
In the course, the student's task consists in being a mentor for participants that are upper secondary school students and university students in the project "Sprettur". Mentors' main role is to support and encourage participants in their studies and social life. As well as creating a constructive relationship with the participants, being a positive role model, and participating in events organized in Sprettur. The mentor role centers around building relationships and spending meaningful time together with the commitment to support participants.
Sprettur is a project that supports students with an immigrant or refugee background who come from families with little or no university education. The students in this course are mentors of the participants and are paired together based on a common field of interest. Each mentor is responsible for supporting two participants. Mentors plan activities with participants and spend three hours a month (from August to May) with Sprettur’s participants, three hours a month in a study group and attend five seminars that are spread over the school year. Students submit journal entries on Canvas in November and March. Diary entries are based on reading material and students' reflections on the mentorship. Compulsory attendance in events, study groups, and seminars. The course is taught in Icelandic and English.
Students must apply for a seat in the course. Applicants go through an interview process and 15-30 students are selected to participate.
See the digital application form.
More information about Sprettur can be found here: www.hi.is/sprettur
Social Skills Training and Empowering with focus on positive classroom management (HÍT001F)
The aim of the course is for participants – teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents – to increase their knowledge about methods that support appropriate child/adolescent behavior. Participants will learn how to use effective, evidence-based methods, built on trust and respect, which support social skills, empower youth, and foster their well-being. Major topics include: a) Assessment of state of group management and strengths of child/adolescent groups. Creating and teaching behavioral expectations. Using clear directions to promote cooperation. b) Training in using various forms of encouragement, primarily with the whole group. c) Ways to achieve balance in using encouragement and managing difficult behaviour. Practical aspects of group management examined more closely and practiced. d) Strategic problem solving and important aspects of collaborating with parents. Reassessment of group management status at the end of the course. Course arrangement The course includes both in-class and home assignments for participants to apply and practice in the field, to enhance their own group management practices. Course activities include discussion, in-class exercises, and diverse group activities. Course assessment is based on reading assigned chapters and articles, submission of assignments completed by course participants and their child/adolescent groups, and active participation in on-line course discussions about course content. Classes will take place in real-time on Zoom or on campus (during on-site session week) for a total of eight half days from August to November, during which time course content and skills will be reviewed and practiced. As part of course assignments, participants apply the methods themselves with their child/adolescent groups in the field, in between classes. The course involves active collaboration and field-based practice of the skills taught. Participants are given an opportunity to learn together and support each other in developing effective practices in working with children. A central goal is for participants to view the use of constructive, evidence-based methods to promote positive youth adjustment and educator job satisfaction as a shared responsibility of the entire school and leisure community. The course is intended for all teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents in pre- schools, elementary schools, and in leisure work. |
Development in educational institutions (STM110F)
The purpose of this course is to assist students in understanding some major concepts, theories, and models of development in educational settings with a focus on the enhancment of cultural conditions in order to encourage improvement. Students are expected to become competent in organising, planning and leading institutional development projects. The course is based on theories about schools and other related institutions as learning communities.
Ways of working
The course is structured in eight parts in distance learning. Two days are on campus during the term. Beside that students read and discuss online. They are also invited to participate in workshops on campus. Assignments are practical and linked with daily work. Student collaboration and discussions is emphases.
Sustainability in textiles (LVG106F)
Emphasis is on sustainability and environmental protection. The aim is to activate environmentally friendly thinking in action and to link sustainability in textiles to a sustainable and responsible lifestyle. Sustainable thinking, creativity and innovation are encouraged, to create something completely new or to renovate clothing and other textile products that already exist. The ideology of sustainable development and methodology and the process of design and innovation are followed; from the need and knowledge of subjects and technical methods to the development of ideas and experiments in search of solutions. The course provides tools, methods and solutions, but a new approach is created in each textile method each time new material is used. Reports are made of the results of the course in context with pedagogical aspects and the value of textiles in the society of education and teaching.
Leadership in inclusive schools in multicultural society (STM015F)
This course focuses on educational leadership and inclusive practice in multicultural society. The purpose is to prepare participants to lead the development of inclusive education in multicultural society. The focus is on leadership, democracy, human rights, collaboration and student resources, the recognition that they learn in different ways and have different backgrounds, abilities and interests. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership that builds on collaboration and listens to students, parents and colleagues.
Gender and education (UME004M)
The main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Introduction to data analysis using jamovi (UMD078F)
The jamovi software is an open-source user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for the R statistical programming language (see jamovi.org). The goal of this course is to make students capable of working independently with their own data, visualizing data, and applying statistical tools using the jamovi software. The first day of this three-day course will be devoted to introducing the jamovi GUI, descriptive statistics, and data visualizations. The second day will be devoted to categorical analysis and comparing two means using jamovi. The third day will be devoted to correlation and linear regression using jamovi. A special emphasis will be on visualizing data for increased clarity and enhanced learning. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch, students are expected to work in jamovi on their own computers. The textbook is open-source and is available online (see https://www.learnstatswithjamovi.com).
Applied multilevel modeling using jamovi (UMD077F)
The focus of the course will be on the use of multilevel models (MLMs; also known as mixed models or random-effects models). MLMs extend the use of multiple regression models and are used answer research questions where models must account for dependencies in the data. The three-day course will begin with a refresher on how to apply the general linear model giving examples of multiple regression, moderated regression, and polynomial effects. The second day of the course will be dedicated to two-level MLMs with cross-sectional data, such as when students are nested within classrooms and/or schools in cluster sampling. The third day will be devoted to the use of two-level MLMs with longitudinal data where timepoints (i.e., waves of data collection) are nested within survey respondents. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch students are expected to work on the application on their own computers. Worked examples are available online (https://gamlj.github.io).
Role of middle managers in schools (STM210F)
The aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical knowledge of the role of middle-leaders in schools and in the field of leisure, with a special emphasis on their professional leadership and the value of interprofessional collaboration in the education system.
Designhistory - fashion, textiles and furniture (LVG008M)
Emphasis is placed on the history of Egyptian design to the present day, focusing on clothing and utilities. The furniture and building history will also be seen in the context of decorations in homes such as upholstery and curtains. in an international context compared to the development of clothing and textile history in Iceland and connections with the economy, culture, museums and education.The program is organized with lectures and practical research projects involving a wide range of data collection and presentation of projects.
Gender and education (UME004M)
The main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Participation in research in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy (KME202F)
In the course students participate in research that is ongoing in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy. They can chose between three projects to engage in. They will need to strengthen their knowledge on the subject and participate in collecting and analysing data.
Literature and the fundamental pillars of education (ÍET002F)
Students will read different literary text which are well suited to the task of opening up discussions about the fundamental pillars of education as they are defined in the National Curriculum Guide for Compulory Schools (2013). These are: Literacy, Sustainability, Democracy and Human rights, Equality, Health and Wellfare and Creativity.
The reading list will reflect three main themes that are connected with the fundamental pillars. The reading material will also provide students with general competences in literature, language and expression. The three main themes are important for students from all departments within The School of Education. They are:
- Children and Development
- Equality
- Cultural Heritage and Society
The keywords of the course are: Literacy, vocabulary and interpretive skills
Literacy and dyslexia in language education (ÍET005M)
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Icelandic and the education of multilingual students (ÍET206F)
In this course the focus is on Icelandic as a second language and the education of multilingual students in Icelandic compulsory schools. Language acquisition and language upbringing will be examined and the difference between acquiring skills in a first and a second language. The emphases will be on what it is that teachers in general need to know about the Icelandic language to be able to help their students make progress in the subject being taught.
The structure of the Icelandic language system, pronunciation, word formation, inflections, sentence structure, meaning of words and phrases, the three layers of the vocabulary, and various things related to language use will be studied. The purpose is to figure out what is most likely to be demanding for multilingual students in preschools who are acquiring the language, both in general but also due to personal differences, such as different first languages.
Based on this special attention will be paid to the teaching of different subjects and how they can be planned, taking in account students’ different level of Icelandic. Important aspect of that is how subject texts can be simplified to fit the needs of multilingual students.
Health behaviour and food choice (ÍÞH036M)
This course concerns health behaviour in general. The health behaviour of different age groups will be addressed as well as the association between biological factors, health behaviour and social status. How can behaviour, coping and stress affect health? Behaviour in relations to food and consumption habits is of particular interest. How is it possible to shape healthy habits from childhood, for example to influence food choice and overcome pickiness about food? Societal influence and the part of media is also addressed. The course literature is from various books and scientific articles from different fields and is intended to capture the subject in an interdisciplinary manner.
Gender equality in schools (KME101F)
The course introduces what is gender studies and how key concepts – such as equality, gender, gender roles, gender identity, intersectionality, queer studies, stereotypes, gender based violence, sex education, femininity, and masculinity – are useful to understand and organize schools. The course also focuses on the legislation about gender equality and gender equality education. The connections between gender equality and other types of equality are also dealt with, in accordance with the national curriculum for pre-, compulsory, and upper secondary schools. Emphasis is placed on that the students in the course can analyze learning environments, methods, and materials from a gender perspective. Also that they can analyze the choice of play in preschools as well as in breaks and school sport.
The fundamental perspective of the national curriculum that gender equality education should involve critical examination of hegemonic ideas in society and its institutions, in order to teach children and youth to analyze the circumstances that lead to discrimination of some and privileges for others, is a base for the course.
Required attendance to introduce own final assignment in the course.
Mathematics for diverse student group (KME111F)
Topic
Participants familiarize themselves with research on mathematics studies and how an understanding of mathematics develops. They learn to analyze the knowledge and understanding of the student group and evaluate their learning process. They learn about difficulties in mathematics that students encounter, their impact on learning, and the methods for diagnosing them. Participants acquire knowledge of teaching methods and resources for students of different backgrounds, including diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Activities
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online, and through the course webpage. The coursework is based on lectures, seminars, and individual and group assignments.
Students conduct a small-scale investigation on mathematical learning. Based on their learning in the course, they plan a developmental study within schools. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics.
Multilingualism and literacy (KME116F)
The aim of this course is to increase students’ knowledge and understanding about the influence that multilingualism may exert on the development of literacy. Reading development of multilingual children will be discussed, based on the orthographic systems of their languages, effective instrucion in Icelandic as a second language with newly arrived children at various ages, and also children with long residence who need effective support for their educational achievement. Participants of the course are encouraged to take account of high quality research findings, think critically about each topic based on their own experience, and to relate to their specific field and interests. The purpose of the course is also to encourage students to constantly seek for new knowledge, based on high quality research findings, as a means to develop their skills in the teaching of multilingual children.
Teaching will take place both at meetings and on the course's website. Presentations will be accessable on the website and students participate in discussions at the meetings and on the website.
Development of young children's mathematical ideas (KME203F)
Topic:
The focus of the couse is on new research on children's mathematical thinking. Students study the development of children's understanding of mathematics and mathematical content knowledge. Emphasis is on the foundation of mathematics learning that develops in the early years and how to build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities. Research methodologies applied in research on children's mathematical thinking will be explored.
Activities:
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online and through the course webpage. The course readings will be discussed and explored. Students participate in activities that will support them in being able to work in a creative way within their schools.
Students conduct a small scale investigation on young children's mathematical learning. Based on their learning at the course they plan a developmental study within preschool or in primary grades. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities.
The Spectrum of Teaching Methods - Differentiated Instruction (KME205F)
This course deals with the spectrum of teaching methods from direct and formal approaches to informal methods. Emphasis is put on theoretical underpinnings and research on teaching methods, especially Icelandic research. Special attention is put on examining differentiated and responsive approaches (such as the open school concept, flexible teaching, cooperation, multi-age teaching, problem-based learning, holistic education, project-based learning, negotiating the curriculum and authentic learning).
Design history (LVG005M)
Students will work with ideas and design in connection with clothing and textiles, patterns, colors and shapes, fashion design, look and format. They also experiments with textile methods and textile materials. Special emphasis is placed on the work process from the idea of implementation and registration of information. Students will work on organized research and development work. Experiments in various methods in textile and clothing will be linked to historical and contemporary trends. Emphasis is also placed on the preparation and presentation of projects.
Art and Design History (LVG102F)
Course Outline:
- Introduction to Art History.
- Methods of interpretation.
- Artistic movements in international History of Art and Design.
Course Format: Lectures, seminars and visits to local art museums.
Action research (MVS011F)
This is an introductory course addressing theoretical, philosophical and practical issues related to action research. The history and development of action research worldwide will be outlined. We will take a look at ideologies and issues that divide action researchers into different camps. A special attention will be on action research in Icelandic schools an other educational forums, how it has developed until now and how it might be taken further. The main emphasis in the course is on learning in action: The participants will learn about action research through the process of conducting their own research project.
Research and development in science education (SNU004M)
Research in science education both internationally and in Iceland will be discusses. Research on practical work, place-based education and the attitudes and interest in science will be considered. The use of ICT and research and development in this field will be discussed.
A special focus will be research on what is involved when students learn science. Attention will be paid to the relationship between science and sustainability on the one hand and on the other what teaching methods seem to be affected. The discussion will be related to the national curriculum.
Learning approaches include reading papers on research and development, creating concise abstracts about them nad discussing them on the internet and in class. Students must be able to collect information from a range of sources, present their ideads and assignments and take an active part in discussion. Students will become familiar with conferences and journal articles in the field, for example, but looking at the home pages of such conferences in order to identify important approaches in this field
It is expected that the participants gain a good understanding of different research methods used in science education research and develop a critical attitude toward such endeavour. Participants will be expected to make inquiries into their own practice as teachers and inquire into pupils' ideas about natural phenomena or to acquaint themselves with databases from national or international projects or to conduct small scale qualitative research into experience of children and/or teachers in science education.
Distance Education (SNU008F)
Issues, concepts and theories in the field of distance education will be explored. Development and trends will be examined from the emphasis on independent study to emphasis on social activities and shared knowledge construction online and global. The focus will also be on research on distance education at different school levels in Iceland and other countries, distance learners and their needs, and teaching methods with different types of media. The design of distance or online courses and programs will be explored as well as international standards for such courses.
Students participate in online synchronous and asynchronous discussion about theory and practice concerning distance education (DE), engage in problem-based learning (group work) and do an individual project that could involve design of a DE course, a study concerning DE, or a paper on topics related to DE.
Learning and teaching on the Internet (SNU008M)
The scope of this course is research and projects about communication, presentation and structure of content and learning environments on the Internet. The course is project oriented and workshop based and evaluation will be based on student participation and on-line work (eportfolio). Most class meetings and student work will take place on-line and in virtual spaces using various on-line tools. Students will work on tasks such as:
- prepare instructional material, interactive content and research articles for use in netbased learning environments
- participate in research/projects about Internet media in learning and teaching
- design learning environments and learning processes on the Internet where content, student learning spaces, evaluation, communication and group work are connected
- discuss research and innovative projects about use of Internet in teaching and learning and link new media with theories af learning and teaching
- design various forms of Internet learning environments such as elearning, blended learning, homework - learning outside the school.
Queer pedagogy (SFG004M)
Objective: The objective of the course is that students learn about concepts, theories and research in queer pedagogy. Furthermore, they will receive good insight into queer theory. Students will acquire critical view of schools and education and gain insight intof the reality of queer youth.
Topics include the concepts of gender, sexuality, intersectionality, masculinity, femininity, gender binary, heteronormativity and cisnormativity. Students gain insight into the main subject matters of queer pedagogy and the ways in which this field can shed light on education, pedagogy, leisure, and and society. The approach will be in the spirit of queer theory and social constructivist perspective, which will be employed to explain different views on gender, gender identity and queer sexuality. The course examines how the Icelandic school system directly and indirectly maintains a wide variety of discrimination and sustains institutionlized heternormativity and cisnormativity. New research, domestic and international, will be read, related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Furthermore, the course focuses on the training of future professionals working with children and teenagers in establishing a queer friendly atmosphere and incorporate queer realities into their work.
Religions in a multicultural society (KME003M)
In the course, people's religious needs, experiences and religious identities will be discussed together with selected parts oft the main religious traditions in the world. Religious practice - particularly in relation to school settings - religious ethics and common values of different religions will be discussed, as well as the position of religions today, cultural and religious conflicts and prejudice and misunderstanding concerning religions. Projects are linked to the field.
The aims of this course are that the student has increased his or her knowledge in the main religious traditions in the world, and in the basic theories and key concepts in religious studies. That the student understands the relations between culture and religion and the influences of those on the identity, life values and daily lives of children and families. That the student knows ways of dealing with matters of opinion related to religions in his or her work settings. That the student can collect, assess and analyse scientific data in the field of religious studies in a multicultural society and use suitable technical measures and software. That the student can initiate new studies and development projects and communicate his or her findings in a suitable manner. That the student has developed independent methods of working and is capable of further studies and research in the field of religious studies in multicultural settings.
- Fall
- MAL102F, KME115FLearning and teaching: Supporting children with special needsRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
In this course students explore teaching of diverse groups in inclusive settings, emphasizing strategies to address diverse educational and sociological needs of students, guided by human values, democracy and social justice. The emphasis is on evidence-based strategies to address the most common students´ special needs related to reading difficulties, behavioral difficulties, attention deficit, hyperactivity, and autism spectrum disorder. At the same time the use of respectful, person-first language, putting strengths and talents of students in the foreground, is stressed. Multicultural teaching and teaching of students learning Icelandic as a second language will be addressed. Students will be introduced to classroom management strategies, individualized behavior support, multi-disciplinary and parent collaboration. The course focus is on inclusive, evidence-based practices that aim to provide students with special needs opportunities equal to those of their classmates.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMAL102F, KME115FWorking in inclusive practicesRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course aims to prepare participants to draw on their resources in their work with diverse groups of students. In the course, we draw on inclusive education theories and research, emphasizing a holistic and creative approach to preparation and teaching at the forefront. Furthermore, a focus is put on teaching strategies and educative assessment that works for diverse groups of students, and adapting teaching and learning to students with special needs.
Content
The focus of the course is on inclusive practices. How to create a learning environment that cares for all students learning is introduced. The focus is also on collaboration with parents, colleagues, professionals, and paraprofessionals.Work process
The course is a blended course online and on campus. It is divided into four main themes. All the themes connect to teaching in inclusive educational settings. The focus on each theme is three or four weeks.The teaching is through lectures, projects, collaboration, discussions in class, on canvas, and in formal assignments. The course is grounded in students' independence, responsibility, and participation.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME109FResearch on early childhood educationMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main focus of the course is on early childhood education and research within the field. Various topics and controversial issues will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on different views on children and childhood, cooperation between playschool and primary school, teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and cooperation between school and family.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
MVS213FIntroduction to quantitative ResearchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents in this course are expected to deepen their knowledge and skills in quantitative research methodology. Students will use a computer program for data analysis, with emphasis on interpretation and writing about research results. Students are expected to develop positive attitudes toward research and the value of research in educational and social settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMVS212FIntroduction to qualitative researchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on qualitative research methods. It looks at different movements and traditions in research methodology and their relationship to the structure and execution of research. The course also touches on the ethics of research, validity and different views of these concepts. Students will conduct a small research project, which provides training in a literature review, data collection, data analysis, and presentation of research findings. Students work as a team throughout the semester.
Readings, lectures, in-class discussion and group work. Sessions for distance students are held twice during the semester and participation is mandatory
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFAG201FEducation for sustainability – skills in a changing worldMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to work with conceptual issues in sustainability and global initiative such as those being implemented by the UNESCO. Examples of problems in the environment and nature will be explored, f.ex. climate change, decrease in number of species, soil erosion and pollution. Emphasis will be on the role of teachers in dealing with controversial issues and how they can teach children to analyse problems, evaluate information and put forward possible solutions. Participants read and use research about sustainability education. Participants will also examine their own angle to sustainability, their values and behaviour.
It is obligatory to attend classes during On Campus weeks, according to the academic calendar for School of Education.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
- KME301FTeaching and Learning – becoming a ProfessionalMandatory (required) course20A mandatory (required) course for the programme20 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse Description
This course focuses on providing the student teachers with competences for becoming professionals in their field, with focus on their subject area, and supporting them in laying the foundation for their own professional working theory. This will be obtained by building up knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities which is imbued in teaching and the skills needed for self evaluation in various situations in the field. An emphasis is also put on providing the student teachers with skills regarding the role of the classroom teacher and classroom management; team-teaching and co-operative skills; how to deal with traumatic experiences and children's welfare; and working with parents. Furthermore, research on school development, school evaluation and school ethos will be looked into together with research on teachers. Finally this will be linked with practicum.
Emphasis is on interactive lectures, inquiry and reflective studies, seminars, group work, projects, portfolios, field studies and fieldwork.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisites- Spring 2
GKY401LFinal projectMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe M.Ed. final project is an individual project of 30 ECTS credits. Students work on the project independently under the guidance of a project supervisor/supervisors chosen from among the academic staff at the School of Education. Students should consult the chair of their department on the choice of a project supervisor.
The thesis/project topic is chosen by the student in collaboration with his or her project supervisor and the department chair. The topic of the project should fall within the student's area of study, i.e. programme of study and chosen specialisation.
Various types of projects are permitted, for example, research essays, independent research projects, the development of new curricula or study materials.
Students sign up for the final project/thesis during annual registration via the Ugla Intraweb, and should register based on estimated progress in the fall and spring semester. In general, preparation for and work on the project takes at least two semesters. In some programmes the thesis is expected to spread over two or three semesters according to specific instructions, see under programme structure in the Course Catalogue for each programme.
Master´s projects are not awarded numerical grades but are marked pass or fail. Evaluation of projects are according to rules of the School of Education.
Students should follow the more detailed instructions and rules for M.Ed. projects set by the School of Education. See the School of Education intraweb, Ugla: Schools >> School of Education >> Master´s projects
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsGKY401FLearning and teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - fieldMandatory (required) course15A mandatory (required) course for the programme15 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse DescriptionThe main task of this course is fieldwork at the primary level of compulsory school. The emphasis is on actual teaching practice and giving the students opportunities to discuss, evaluate, reflect, and develop their teaching. Students will develop a teaching plan based on the national curriculum guide and school curricula. They will analyse incidents from their practice to learn from and improve their teaching. A range of teaching methods will be explored and applied in teaching in the field.
Students are in the field the whole semester in both courses (KME301F Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional and GKY401F Learning and Teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field) and attend regular classes at the university. Emphasis is on interactive lectures, self-study, group work, and projects. The course of study is directly related to field practice. Various issues will be explored with concrete examples from school practice. Students read chosen materials and research on school practice, both provided by lecturers and chosen by students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Whole year courses
- Course Description
In the course, the student's task consists in being a mentor for participants that are upper secondary school students and university students in the project "Sprettur". Mentors' main role is to support and encourage participants in their studies and social life. As well as creating a constructive relationship with the participants, being a positive role model, and participating in events organized in Sprettur. The mentor role centers around building relationships and spending meaningful time together with the commitment to support participants.
Sprettur is a project that supports students with an immigrant or refugee background who come from families with little or no university education. The students in this course are mentors of the participants and are paired together based on a common field of interest. Each mentor is responsible for supporting two participants. Mentors plan activities with participants and spend three hours a month (from August to May) with Sprettur’s participants, three hours a month in a study group and attend five seminars that are spread over the school year. Students submit journal entries on Canvas in November and March. Diary entries are based on reading material and students' reflections on the mentorship. Compulsory attendance in events, study groups, and seminars. The course is taught in Icelandic and English.
Students must apply for a seat in the course. Applicants go through an interview process and 15-30 students are selected to participate.
See the digital application form.
More information about Sprettur can be found here: www.hi.is/sprettur
Face-to-face learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
HÍT001FSocial Skills Training and Empowering with focus on positive classroom managementElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of the course is for participants – teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents – to increase their knowledge about methods that support appropriate child/adolescent behavior. Participants will learn how to use effective, evidence-based methods, built on trust and respect, which support social skills, empower youth, and foster their well-being.
Major topics include: a) Assessment of state of group management and strengths of child/adolescent groups. Creating and teaching behavioral expectations. Using clear directions to promote cooperation. b) Training in using various forms of encouragement, primarily with the whole group. c) Ways to achieve balance in using encouragement and managing difficult behaviour. Practical aspects of group management examined more closely and practiced. d) Strategic problem solving and important aspects of collaborating with parents. Reassessment of group management status at the end of the course.
Course arrangement
The course includes both in-class and home assignments for participants to apply and practice in the field, to enhance their own group management practices. Course activities include discussion, in-class exercises, and diverse group activities. Course assessment is based on reading assigned chapters and articles, submission of assignments completed by course participants and their child/adolescent groups, and active participation in on-line course discussions about course content.
Classes will take place in real-time on Zoom or on campus (during on-site session week) for a total of eight half days from August to November, during which time course content and skills will be reviewed and practiced. As part of course assignments, participants apply the methods themselves with their child/adolescent groups in the field, in between classes. The course involves active collaboration and field-based practice of the skills taught. Participants are given an opportunity to learn together and support each other in developing effective practices in working with children. A central goal is for participants to view the use of constructive, evidence-based methods to promote positive youth adjustment and educator job satisfaction as a shared responsibility of the entire school and leisure community.
The course is intended for all teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents in pre- schools, elementary schools, and in leisure work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSTM110FDevelopment in educational institutionsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to assist students in understanding some major concepts, theories, and models of development in educational settings with a focus on the enhancment of cultural conditions in order to encourage improvement. Students are expected to become competent in organising, planning and leading institutional development projects. The course is based on theories about schools and other related institutions as learning communities.
Ways of working
The course is structured in eight parts in distance learning. Two days are on campus during the term. Beside that students read and discuss online. They are also invited to participate in workshops on campus. Assignments are practical and linked with daily work. Student collaboration and discussions is emphases.Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG106FSustainability in textilesElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is on sustainability and environmental protection. The aim is to activate environmentally friendly thinking in action and to link sustainability in textiles to a sustainable and responsible lifestyle. Sustainable thinking, creativity and innovation are encouraged, to create something completely new or to renovate clothing and other textile products that already exist. The ideology of sustainable development and methodology and the process of design and innovation are followed; from the need and knowledge of subjects and technical methods to the development of ideas and experiments in search of solutions. The course provides tools, methods and solutions, but a new approach is created in each textile method each time new material is used. Reports are made of the results of the course in context with pedagogical aspects and the value of textiles in the society of education and teaching.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSTM015FLeadership in inclusive schools in multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on educational leadership and inclusive practice in multicultural society. The purpose is to prepare participants to lead the development of inclusive education in multicultural society. The focus is on leadership, democracy, human rights, collaboration and student resources, the recognition that they learn in different ways and have different backgrounds, abilities and interests. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership that builds on collaboration and listens to students, parents and colleagues.
The course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
UME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUMD078FIntroduction to data analysis using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe jamovi software is an open-source user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for the R statistical programming language (see jamovi.org). The goal of this course is to make students capable of working independently with their own data, visualizing data, and applying statistical tools using the jamovi software. The first day of this three-day course will be devoted to introducing the jamovi GUI, descriptive statistics, and data visualizations. The second day will be devoted to categorical analysis and comparing two means using jamovi. The third day will be devoted to correlation and linear regression using jamovi. A special emphasis will be on visualizing data for increased clarity and enhanced learning. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch, students are expected to work in jamovi on their own computers. The textbook is open-source and is available online (see https://www.learnstatswithjamovi.com).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classUMD077FApplied multilevel modeling using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe focus of the course will be on the use of multilevel models (MLMs; also known as mixed models or random-effects models). MLMs extend the use of multiple regression models and are used answer research questions where models must account for dependencies in the data. The three-day course will begin with a refresher on how to apply the general linear model giving examples of multiple regression, moderated regression, and polynomial effects. The second day of the course will be dedicated to two-level MLMs with cross-sectional data, such as when students are nested within classrooms and/or schools in cluster sampling. The third day will be devoted to the use of two-level MLMs with longitudinal data where timepoints (i.e., waves of data collection) are nested within survey respondents. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch students are expected to work on the application on their own computers. Worked examples are available online (https://gamlj.github.io).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterSTM210FRole of middle managers in schoolsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical knowledge of the role of middle-leaders in schools and in the field of leisure, with a special emphasis on their professional leadership and the value of interprofessional collaboration in the education system.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesLVG008MDesignhistory - fashion, textiles and furnitureElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is placed on the history of Egyptian design to the present day, focusing on clothing and utilities. The furniture and building history will also be seen in the context of decorations in homes such as upholstery and curtains. in an international context compared to the development of clothing and textile history in Iceland and connections with the economy, culture, museums and education.The program is organized with lectures and practical research projects involving a wide range of data collection and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesKME202FParticipation in research in the Faculty of Education and PedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course students participate in research that is ongoing in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy. They can chose between three projects to engage in. They will need to strengthen their knowledge on the subject and participate in collecting and analysing data.
PrerequisitesÍET002FLiterature and the fundamental pillars of educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will read different literary text which are well suited to the task of opening up discussions about the fundamental pillars of education as they are defined in the National Curriculum Guide for Compulory Schools (2013). These are: Literacy, Sustainability, Democracy and Human rights, Equality, Health and Wellfare and Creativity.
The reading list will reflect three main themes that are connected with the fundamental pillars. The reading material will also provide students with general competences in literature, language and expression. The three main themes are important for students from all departments within The School of Education. They are:
- Children and Development
- Equality
- Cultural Heritage and Society
The keywords of the course are: Literacy, vocabulary and interpretive skills
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Year unspecified
ÍET005MLiteracy and dyslexia in language educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description-
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesÍET206FIcelandic and the education of multilingual studentsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn this course the focus is on Icelandic as a second language and the education of multilingual students in Icelandic compulsory schools. Language acquisition and language upbringing will be examined and the difference between acquiring skills in a first and a second language. The emphases will be on what it is that teachers in general need to know about the Icelandic language to be able to help their students make progress in the subject being taught.
The structure of the Icelandic language system, pronunciation, word formation, inflections, sentence structure, meaning of words and phrases, the three layers of the vocabulary, and various things related to language use will be studied. The purpose is to figure out what is most likely to be demanding for multilingual students in preschools who are acquiring the language, both in general but also due to personal differences, such as different first languages.
Based on this special attention will be paid to the teaching of different subjects and how they can be planned, taking in account students’ different level of Icelandic. Important aspect of that is how subject texts can be simplified to fit the needs of multilingual students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningOnline learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classÍÞH036MHealth behaviour and food choiceElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course concerns health behaviour in general. The health behaviour of different age groups will be addressed as well as the association between biological factors, health behaviour and social status. How can behaviour, coping and stress affect health? Behaviour in relations to food and consumption habits is of particular interest. How is it possible to shape healthy habits from childhood, for example to influence food choice and overcome pickiness about food? Societal influence and the part of media is also addressed. The course literature is from various books and scientific articles from different fields and is intended to capture the subject in an interdisciplinary manner.
Distance learningPrerequisitesKME101FGender equality in schoolsElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course introduces what is gender studies and how key concepts – such as equality, gender, gender roles, gender identity, intersectionality, queer studies, stereotypes, gender based violence, sex education, femininity, and masculinity – are useful to understand and organize schools. The course also focuses on the legislation about gender equality and gender equality education. The connections between gender equality and other types of equality are also dealt with, in accordance with the national curriculum for pre-, compulsory, and upper secondary schools. Emphasis is placed on that the students in the course can analyze learning environments, methods, and materials from a gender perspective. Also that they can analyze the choice of play in preschools as well as in breaks and school sport.
The fundamental perspective of the national curriculum that gender equality education should involve critical examination of hegemonic ideas in society and its institutions, in order to teach children and youth to analyze the circumstances that lead to discrimination of some and privileges for others, is a base for the course.
Required attendance to introduce own final assignment in the course.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME111FMathematics for diverse student groupElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic
Participants familiarize themselves with research on mathematics studies and how an understanding of mathematics develops. They learn to analyze the knowledge and understanding of the student group and evaluate their learning process. They learn about difficulties in mathematics that students encounter, their impact on learning, and the methods for diagnosing them. Participants acquire knowledge of teaching methods and resources for students of different backgrounds, including diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.Activities
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online, and through the course webpage. The coursework is based on lectures, seminars, and individual and group assignments.Students conduct a small-scale investigation on mathematical learning. Based on their learning in the course, they plan a developmental study within schools. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesKME116FMultilingualism and literacyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to increase students’ knowledge and understanding about the influence that multilingualism may exert on the development of literacy. Reading development of multilingual children will be discussed, based on the orthographic systems of their languages, effective instrucion in Icelandic as a second language with newly arrived children at various ages, and also children with long residence who need effective support for their educational achievement. Participants of the course are encouraged to take account of high quality research findings, think critically about each topic based on their own experience, and to relate to their specific field and interests. The purpose of the course is also to encourage students to constantly seek for new knowledge, based on high quality research findings, as a means to develop their skills in the teaching of multilingual children.
Teaching will take place both at meetings and on the course's website. Presentations will be accessable on the website and students participate in discussions at the meetings and on the website.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterKME203FDevelopment of young children's mathematical ideasElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic:
The focus of the couse is on new research on children's mathematical thinking. Students study the development of children's understanding of mathematics and mathematical content knowledge. Emphasis is on the foundation of mathematics learning that develops in the early years and how to build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities. Research methodologies applied in research on children's mathematical thinking will be explored.Activities:
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online and through the course webpage. The course readings will be discussed and explored. Students participate in activities that will support them in being able to work in a creative way within their schools.Students conduct a small scale investigation on young children's mathematical learning. Based on their learning at the course they plan a developmental study within preschool or in primary grades. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME205FThe Spectrum of Teaching Methods - Differentiated InstructionElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course deals with the spectrum of teaching methods from direct and formal approaches to informal methods. Emphasis is put on theoretical underpinnings and research on teaching methods, especially Icelandic research. Special attention is put on examining differentiated and responsive approaches (such as the open school concept, flexible teaching, cooperation, multi-age teaching, problem-based learning, holistic education, project-based learning, negotiating the curriculum and authentic learning).
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG005MDesign historyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will work with ideas and design in connection with clothing and textiles, patterns, colors and shapes, fashion design, look and format. They also experiments with textile methods and textile materials. Special emphasis is placed on the work process from the idea of implementation and registration of information. Students will work on organized research and development work. Experiments in various methods in textile and clothing will be linked to historical and contemporary trends. Emphasis is also placed on the preparation and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesLVG102FArt and Design HistoryElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionCourse Outline:
- Introduction to Art History.
- Methods of interpretation.
- Artistic movements in international History of Art and Design.
Course Format: Lectures, seminars and visits to local art museums.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionThis is an introductory course addressing theoretical, philosophical and practical issues related to action research. The history and development of action research worldwide will be outlined. We will take a look at ideologies and issues that divide action researchers into different camps. A special attention will be on action research in Icelandic schools an other educational forums, how it has developed until now and how it might be taken further. The main emphasis in the course is on learning in action: The participants will learn about action research through the process of conducting their own research project.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSNU004MResearch and development in science educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionResearch in science education both internationally and in Iceland will be discusses. Research on practical work, place-based education and the attitudes and interest in science will be considered. The use of ICT and research and development in this field will be discussed.
A special focus will be research on what is involved when students learn science. Attention will be paid to the relationship between science and sustainability on the one hand and on the other what teaching methods seem to be affected. The discussion will be related to the national curriculum.Learning approaches include reading papers on research and development, creating concise abstracts about them nad discussing them on the internet and in class. Students must be able to collect information from a range of sources, present their ideads and assignments and take an active part in discussion. Students will become familiar with conferences and journal articles in the field, for example, but looking at the home pages of such conferences in order to identify important approaches in this field
It is expected that the participants gain a good understanding of different research methods used in science education research and develop a critical attitude toward such endeavour. Participants will be expected to make inquiries into their own practice as teachers and inquire into pupils' ideas about natural phenomena or to acquaint themselves with databases from national or international projects or to conduct small scale qualitative research into experience of children and/or teachers in science education.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionIssues, concepts and theories in the field of distance education will be explored. Development and trends will be examined from the emphasis on independent study to emphasis on social activities and shared knowledge construction online and global. The focus will also be on research on distance education at different school levels in Iceland and other countries, distance learners and their needs, and teaching methods with different types of media. The design of distance or online courses and programs will be explored as well as international standards for such courses.
Students participate in online synchronous and asynchronous discussion about theory and practice concerning distance education (DE), engage in problem-based learning (group work) and do an individual project that could involve design of a DE course, a study concerning DE, or a paper on topics related to DE.
Distance learningPrerequisitesSNU008MLearning and teaching on the InternetElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe scope of this course is research and projects about communication, presentation and structure of content and learning environments on the Internet. The course is project oriented and workshop based and evaluation will be based on student participation and on-line work (eportfolio). Most class meetings and student work will take place on-line and in virtual spaces using various on-line tools. Students will work on tasks such as:
- prepare instructional material, interactive content and research articles for use in netbased learning environments
- participate in research/projects about Internet media in learning and teaching
- design learning environments and learning processes on the Internet where content, student learning spaces, evaluation, communication and group work are connected
- discuss research and innovative projects about use of Internet in teaching and learning and link new media with theories af learning and teaching
- design various forms of Internet learning environments such as elearning, blended learning, homework - learning outside the school.
Distance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSFG004MQueer pedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionObjective: The objective of the course is that students learn about concepts, theories and research in queer pedagogy. Furthermore, they will receive good insight into queer theory. Students will acquire critical view of schools and education and gain insight intof the reality of queer youth.
Topics include the concepts of gender, sexuality, intersectionality, masculinity, femininity, gender binary, heteronormativity and cisnormativity. Students gain insight into the main subject matters of queer pedagogy and the ways in which this field can shed light on education, pedagogy, leisure, and and society. The approach will be in the spirit of queer theory and social constructivist perspective, which will be employed to explain different views on gender, gender identity and queer sexuality. The course examines how the Icelandic school system directly and indirectly maintains a wide variety of discrimination and sustains institutionlized heternormativity and cisnormativity. New research, domestic and international, will be read, related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Furthermore, the course focuses on the training of future professionals working with children and teenagers in establishing a queer friendly atmosphere and incorporate queer realities into their work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME003MReligions in a multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course, people's religious needs, experiences and religious identities will be discussed together with selected parts oft the main religious traditions in the world. Religious practice - particularly in relation to school settings - religious ethics and common values of different religions will be discussed, as well as the position of religions today, cultural and religious conflicts and prejudice and misunderstanding concerning religions. Projects are linked to the field.
The aims of this course are that the student has increased his or her knowledge in the main religious traditions in the world, and in the basic theories and key concepts in religious studies. That the student understands the relations between culture and religion and the influences of those on the identity, life values and daily lives of children and families. That the student knows ways of dealing with matters of opinion related to religions in his or her work settings. That the student can collect, assess and analyse scientific data in the field of religious studies in a multicultural society and use suitable technical measures and software. That the student can initiate new studies and development projects and communicate his or her findings in a suitable manner. That the student has developed independent methods of working and is capable of further studies and research in the field of religious studies in multicultural settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesSecond year- Fall
- MAL102F, KME115FLearning and teaching: Supporting children with special needsRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
In this course students explore teaching of diverse groups in inclusive settings, emphasizing strategies to address diverse educational and sociological needs of students, guided by human values, democracy and social justice. The emphasis is on evidence-based strategies to address the most common students´ special needs related to reading difficulties, behavioral difficulties, attention deficit, hyperactivity, and autism spectrum disorder. At the same time the use of respectful, person-first language, putting strengths and talents of students in the foreground, is stressed. Multicultural teaching and teaching of students learning Icelandic as a second language will be addressed. Students will be introduced to classroom management strategies, individualized behavior support, multi-disciplinary and parent collaboration. The course focus is on inclusive, evidence-based practices that aim to provide students with special needs opportunities equal to those of their classmates.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMAL102F, KME115FWorking in inclusive practicesRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course aims to prepare participants to draw on their resources in their work with diverse groups of students. In the course, we draw on inclusive education theories and research, emphasizing a holistic and creative approach to preparation and teaching at the forefront. Furthermore, a focus is put on teaching strategies and educative assessment that works for diverse groups of students, and adapting teaching and learning to students with special needs.
Content
The focus of the course is on inclusive practices. How to create a learning environment that cares for all students learning is introduced. The focus is also on collaboration with parents, colleagues, professionals, and paraprofessionals.Work process
The course is a blended course online and on campus. It is divided into four main themes. All the themes connect to teaching in inclusive educational settings. The focus on each theme is three or four weeks.The teaching is through lectures, projects, collaboration, discussions in class, on canvas, and in formal assignments. The course is grounded in students' independence, responsibility, and participation.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME109FResearch on early childhood educationMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main focus of the course is on early childhood education and research within the field. Various topics and controversial issues will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on different views on children and childhood, cooperation between playschool and primary school, teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and cooperation between school and family.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
MVS213FIntroduction to quantitative ResearchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents in this course are expected to deepen their knowledge and skills in quantitative research methodology. Students will use a computer program for data analysis, with emphasis on interpretation and writing about research results. Students are expected to develop positive attitudes toward research and the value of research in educational and social settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMVS212FIntroduction to qualitative researchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on qualitative research methods. It looks at different movements and traditions in research methodology and their relationship to the structure and execution of research. The course also touches on the ethics of research, validity and different views of these concepts. Students will conduct a small research project, which provides training in a literature review, data collection, data analysis, and presentation of research findings. Students work as a team throughout the semester.
Readings, lectures, in-class discussion and group work. Sessions for distance students are held twice during the semester and participation is mandatory
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFAG201FEducation for sustainability – skills in a changing worldMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to work with conceptual issues in sustainability and global initiative such as those being implemented by the UNESCO. Examples of problems in the environment and nature will be explored, f.ex. climate change, decrease in number of species, soil erosion and pollution. Emphasis will be on the role of teachers in dealing with controversial issues and how they can teach children to analyse problems, evaluate information and put forward possible solutions. Participants read and use research about sustainability education. Participants will also examine their own angle to sustainability, their values and behaviour.
It is obligatory to attend classes during On Campus weeks, according to the academic calendar for School of Education.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
- KME301FTeaching and Learning – becoming a ProfessionalMandatory (required) course20A mandatory (required) course for the programme20 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse Description
This course focuses on providing the student teachers with competences for becoming professionals in their field, with focus on their subject area, and supporting them in laying the foundation for their own professional working theory. This will be obtained by building up knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities which is imbued in teaching and the skills needed for self evaluation in various situations in the field. An emphasis is also put on providing the student teachers with skills regarding the role of the classroom teacher and classroom management; team-teaching and co-operative skills; how to deal with traumatic experiences and children's welfare; and working with parents. Furthermore, research on school development, school evaluation and school ethos will be looked into together with research on teachers. Finally this will be linked with practicum.
Emphasis is on interactive lectures, inquiry and reflective studies, seminars, group work, projects, portfolios, field studies and fieldwork.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisites- Spring 2
GKY401LFinal projectMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe M.Ed. final project is an individual project of 30 ECTS credits. Students work on the project independently under the guidance of a project supervisor/supervisors chosen from among the academic staff at the School of Education. Students should consult the chair of their department on the choice of a project supervisor.
The thesis/project topic is chosen by the student in collaboration with his or her project supervisor and the department chair. The topic of the project should fall within the student's area of study, i.e. programme of study and chosen specialisation.
Various types of projects are permitted, for example, research essays, independent research projects, the development of new curricula or study materials.
Students sign up for the final project/thesis during annual registration via the Ugla Intraweb, and should register based on estimated progress in the fall and spring semester. In general, preparation for and work on the project takes at least two semesters. In some programmes the thesis is expected to spread over two or three semesters according to specific instructions, see under programme structure in the Course Catalogue for each programme.
Master´s projects are not awarded numerical grades but are marked pass or fail. Evaluation of projects are according to rules of the School of Education.
Students should follow the more detailed instructions and rules for M.Ed. projects set by the School of Education. See the School of Education intraweb, Ugla: Schools >> School of Education >> Master´s projects
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsGKY401FLearning and teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - fieldMandatory (required) course15A mandatory (required) course for the programme15 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse DescriptionThe main task of this course is fieldwork at the primary level of compulsory school. The emphasis is on actual teaching practice and giving the students opportunities to discuss, evaluate, reflect, and develop their teaching. Students will develop a teaching plan based on the national curriculum guide and school curricula. They will analyse incidents from their practice to learn from and improve their teaching. A range of teaching methods will be explored and applied in teaching in the field.
Students are in the field the whole semester in both courses (KME301F Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional and GKY401F Learning and Teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field) and attend regular classes at the university. Emphasis is on interactive lectures, self-study, group work, and projects. The course of study is directly related to field practice. Various issues will be explored with concrete examples from school practice. Students read chosen materials and research on school practice, both provided by lecturers and chosen by students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Whole year courses
- Course Description
In the course, the student's task consists in being a mentor for participants that are upper secondary school students and university students in the project "Sprettur". Mentors' main role is to support and encourage participants in their studies and social life. As well as creating a constructive relationship with the participants, being a positive role model, and participating in events organized in Sprettur. The mentor role centers around building relationships and spending meaningful time together with the commitment to support participants.
Sprettur is a project that supports students with an immigrant or refugee background who come from families with little or no university education. The students in this course are mentors of the participants and are paired together based on a common field of interest. Each mentor is responsible for supporting two participants. Mentors plan activities with participants and spend three hours a month (from August to May) with Sprettur’s participants, three hours a month in a study group and attend five seminars that are spread over the school year. Students submit journal entries on Canvas in November and March. Diary entries are based on reading material and students' reflections on the mentorship. Compulsory attendance in events, study groups, and seminars. The course is taught in Icelandic and English.
Students must apply for a seat in the course. Applicants go through an interview process and 15-30 students are selected to participate.
See the digital application form.
More information about Sprettur can be found here: www.hi.is/sprettur
Face-to-face learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
HÍT001FSocial Skills Training and Empowering with focus on positive classroom managementElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of the course is for participants – teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents – to increase their knowledge about methods that support appropriate child/adolescent behavior. Participants will learn how to use effective, evidence-based methods, built on trust and respect, which support social skills, empower youth, and foster their well-being.
Major topics include: a) Assessment of state of group management and strengths of child/adolescent groups. Creating and teaching behavioral expectations. Using clear directions to promote cooperation. b) Training in using various forms of encouragement, primarily with the whole group. c) Ways to achieve balance in using encouragement and managing difficult behaviour. Practical aspects of group management examined more closely and practiced. d) Strategic problem solving and important aspects of collaborating with parents. Reassessment of group management status at the end of the course.
Course arrangement
The course includes both in-class and home assignments for participants to apply and practice in the field, to enhance their own group management practices. Course activities include discussion, in-class exercises, and diverse group activities. Course assessment is based on reading assigned chapters and articles, submission of assignments completed by course participants and their child/adolescent groups, and active participation in on-line course discussions about course content.
Classes will take place in real-time on Zoom or on campus (during on-site session week) for a total of eight half days from August to November, during which time course content and skills will be reviewed and practiced. As part of course assignments, participants apply the methods themselves with their child/adolescent groups in the field, in between classes. The course involves active collaboration and field-based practice of the skills taught. Participants are given an opportunity to learn together and support each other in developing effective practices in working with children. A central goal is for participants to view the use of constructive, evidence-based methods to promote positive youth adjustment and educator job satisfaction as a shared responsibility of the entire school and leisure community.
The course is intended for all teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents in pre- schools, elementary schools, and in leisure work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSTM110FDevelopment in educational institutionsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to assist students in understanding some major concepts, theories, and models of development in educational settings with a focus on the enhancment of cultural conditions in order to encourage improvement. Students are expected to become competent in organising, planning and leading institutional development projects. The course is based on theories about schools and other related institutions as learning communities.
Ways of working
The course is structured in eight parts in distance learning. Two days are on campus during the term. Beside that students read and discuss online. They are also invited to participate in workshops on campus. Assignments are practical and linked with daily work. Student collaboration and discussions is emphases.Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG106FSustainability in textilesElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is on sustainability and environmental protection. The aim is to activate environmentally friendly thinking in action and to link sustainability in textiles to a sustainable and responsible lifestyle. Sustainable thinking, creativity and innovation are encouraged, to create something completely new or to renovate clothing and other textile products that already exist. The ideology of sustainable development and methodology and the process of design and innovation are followed; from the need and knowledge of subjects and technical methods to the development of ideas and experiments in search of solutions. The course provides tools, methods and solutions, but a new approach is created in each textile method each time new material is used. Reports are made of the results of the course in context with pedagogical aspects and the value of textiles in the society of education and teaching.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSTM015FLeadership in inclusive schools in multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on educational leadership and inclusive practice in multicultural society. The purpose is to prepare participants to lead the development of inclusive education in multicultural society. The focus is on leadership, democracy, human rights, collaboration and student resources, the recognition that they learn in different ways and have different backgrounds, abilities and interests. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership that builds on collaboration and listens to students, parents and colleagues.
The course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
UME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUMD078FIntroduction to data analysis using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe jamovi software is an open-source user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for the R statistical programming language (see jamovi.org). The goal of this course is to make students capable of working independently with their own data, visualizing data, and applying statistical tools using the jamovi software. The first day of this three-day course will be devoted to introducing the jamovi GUI, descriptive statistics, and data visualizations. The second day will be devoted to categorical analysis and comparing two means using jamovi. The third day will be devoted to correlation and linear regression using jamovi. A special emphasis will be on visualizing data for increased clarity and enhanced learning. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch, students are expected to work in jamovi on their own computers. The textbook is open-source and is available online (see https://www.learnstatswithjamovi.com).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classUMD077FApplied multilevel modeling using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe focus of the course will be on the use of multilevel models (MLMs; also known as mixed models or random-effects models). MLMs extend the use of multiple regression models and are used answer research questions where models must account for dependencies in the data. The three-day course will begin with a refresher on how to apply the general linear model giving examples of multiple regression, moderated regression, and polynomial effects. The second day of the course will be dedicated to two-level MLMs with cross-sectional data, such as when students are nested within classrooms and/or schools in cluster sampling. The third day will be devoted to the use of two-level MLMs with longitudinal data where timepoints (i.e., waves of data collection) are nested within survey respondents. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch students are expected to work on the application on their own computers. Worked examples are available online (https://gamlj.github.io).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterSTM210FRole of middle managers in schoolsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical knowledge of the role of middle-leaders in schools and in the field of leisure, with a special emphasis on their professional leadership and the value of interprofessional collaboration in the education system.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesLVG008MDesignhistory - fashion, textiles and furnitureElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is placed on the history of Egyptian design to the present day, focusing on clothing and utilities. The furniture and building history will also be seen in the context of decorations in homes such as upholstery and curtains. in an international context compared to the development of clothing and textile history in Iceland and connections with the economy, culture, museums and education.The program is organized with lectures and practical research projects involving a wide range of data collection and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesKME202FParticipation in research in the Faculty of Education and PedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course students participate in research that is ongoing in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy. They can chose between three projects to engage in. They will need to strengthen their knowledge on the subject and participate in collecting and analysing data.
PrerequisitesÍET002FLiterature and the fundamental pillars of educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will read different literary text which are well suited to the task of opening up discussions about the fundamental pillars of education as they are defined in the National Curriculum Guide for Compulory Schools (2013). These are: Literacy, Sustainability, Democracy and Human rights, Equality, Health and Wellfare and Creativity.
The reading list will reflect three main themes that are connected with the fundamental pillars. The reading material will also provide students with general competences in literature, language and expression. The three main themes are important for students from all departments within The School of Education. They are:
- Children and Development
- Equality
- Cultural Heritage and Society
The keywords of the course are: Literacy, vocabulary and interpretive skills
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Year unspecified
ÍET005MLiteracy and dyslexia in language educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description-
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesÍET206FIcelandic and the education of multilingual studentsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn this course the focus is on Icelandic as a second language and the education of multilingual students in Icelandic compulsory schools. Language acquisition and language upbringing will be examined and the difference between acquiring skills in a first and a second language. The emphases will be on what it is that teachers in general need to know about the Icelandic language to be able to help their students make progress in the subject being taught.
The structure of the Icelandic language system, pronunciation, word formation, inflections, sentence structure, meaning of words and phrases, the three layers of the vocabulary, and various things related to language use will be studied. The purpose is to figure out what is most likely to be demanding for multilingual students in preschools who are acquiring the language, both in general but also due to personal differences, such as different first languages.
Based on this special attention will be paid to the teaching of different subjects and how they can be planned, taking in account students’ different level of Icelandic. Important aspect of that is how subject texts can be simplified to fit the needs of multilingual students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningOnline learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classÍÞH036MHealth behaviour and food choiceElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course concerns health behaviour in general. The health behaviour of different age groups will be addressed as well as the association between biological factors, health behaviour and social status. How can behaviour, coping and stress affect health? Behaviour in relations to food and consumption habits is of particular interest. How is it possible to shape healthy habits from childhood, for example to influence food choice and overcome pickiness about food? Societal influence and the part of media is also addressed. The course literature is from various books and scientific articles from different fields and is intended to capture the subject in an interdisciplinary manner.
Distance learningPrerequisitesKME101FGender equality in schoolsElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course introduces what is gender studies and how key concepts – such as equality, gender, gender roles, gender identity, intersectionality, queer studies, stereotypes, gender based violence, sex education, femininity, and masculinity – are useful to understand and organize schools. The course also focuses on the legislation about gender equality and gender equality education. The connections between gender equality and other types of equality are also dealt with, in accordance with the national curriculum for pre-, compulsory, and upper secondary schools. Emphasis is placed on that the students in the course can analyze learning environments, methods, and materials from a gender perspective. Also that they can analyze the choice of play in preschools as well as in breaks and school sport.
The fundamental perspective of the national curriculum that gender equality education should involve critical examination of hegemonic ideas in society and its institutions, in order to teach children and youth to analyze the circumstances that lead to discrimination of some and privileges for others, is a base for the course.
Required attendance to introduce own final assignment in the course.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME111FMathematics for diverse student groupElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic
Participants familiarize themselves with research on mathematics studies and how an understanding of mathematics develops. They learn to analyze the knowledge and understanding of the student group and evaluate their learning process. They learn about difficulties in mathematics that students encounter, their impact on learning, and the methods for diagnosing them. Participants acquire knowledge of teaching methods and resources for students of different backgrounds, including diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.Activities
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online, and through the course webpage. The coursework is based on lectures, seminars, and individual and group assignments.Students conduct a small-scale investigation on mathematical learning. Based on their learning in the course, they plan a developmental study within schools. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesKME116FMultilingualism and literacyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to increase students’ knowledge and understanding about the influence that multilingualism may exert on the development of literacy. Reading development of multilingual children will be discussed, based on the orthographic systems of their languages, effective instrucion in Icelandic as a second language with newly arrived children at various ages, and also children with long residence who need effective support for their educational achievement. Participants of the course are encouraged to take account of high quality research findings, think critically about each topic based on their own experience, and to relate to their specific field and interests. The purpose of the course is also to encourage students to constantly seek for new knowledge, based on high quality research findings, as a means to develop their skills in the teaching of multilingual children.
Teaching will take place both at meetings and on the course's website. Presentations will be accessable on the website and students participate in discussions at the meetings and on the website.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterKME203FDevelopment of young children's mathematical ideasElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic:
The focus of the couse is on new research on children's mathematical thinking. Students study the development of children's understanding of mathematics and mathematical content knowledge. Emphasis is on the foundation of mathematics learning that develops in the early years and how to build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities. Research methodologies applied in research on children's mathematical thinking will be explored.Activities:
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online and through the course webpage. The course readings will be discussed and explored. Students participate in activities that will support them in being able to work in a creative way within their schools.Students conduct a small scale investigation on young children's mathematical learning. Based on their learning at the course they plan a developmental study within preschool or in primary grades. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME205FThe Spectrum of Teaching Methods - Differentiated InstructionElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course deals with the spectrum of teaching methods from direct and formal approaches to informal methods. Emphasis is put on theoretical underpinnings and research on teaching methods, especially Icelandic research. Special attention is put on examining differentiated and responsive approaches (such as the open school concept, flexible teaching, cooperation, multi-age teaching, problem-based learning, holistic education, project-based learning, negotiating the curriculum and authentic learning).
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG005MDesign historyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will work with ideas and design in connection with clothing and textiles, patterns, colors and shapes, fashion design, look and format. They also experiments with textile methods and textile materials. Special emphasis is placed on the work process from the idea of implementation and registration of information. Students will work on organized research and development work. Experiments in various methods in textile and clothing will be linked to historical and contemporary trends. Emphasis is also placed on the preparation and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesLVG102FArt and Design HistoryElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionCourse Outline:
- Introduction to Art History.
- Methods of interpretation.
- Artistic movements in international History of Art and Design.
Course Format: Lectures, seminars and visits to local art museums.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionThis is an introductory course addressing theoretical, philosophical and practical issues related to action research. The history and development of action research worldwide will be outlined. We will take a look at ideologies and issues that divide action researchers into different camps. A special attention will be on action research in Icelandic schools an other educational forums, how it has developed until now and how it might be taken further. The main emphasis in the course is on learning in action: The participants will learn about action research through the process of conducting their own research project.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSNU004MResearch and development in science educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionResearch in science education both internationally and in Iceland will be discusses. Research on practical work, place-based education and the attitudes and interest in science will be considered. The use of ICT and research and development in this field will be discussed.
A special focus will be research on what is involved when students learn science. Attention will be paid to the relationship between science and sustainability on the one hand and on the other what teaching methods seem to be affected. The discussion will be related to the national curriculum.Learning approaches include reading papers on research and development, creating concise abstracts about them nad discussing them on the internet and in class. Students must be able to collect information from a range of sources, present their ideads and assignments and take an active part in discussion. Students will become familiar with conferences and journal articles in the field, for example, but looking at the home pages of such conferences in order to identify important approaches in this field
It is expected that the participants gain a good understanding of different research methods used in science education research and develop a critical attitude toward such endeavour. Participants will be expected to make inquiries into their own practice as teachers and inquire into pupils' ideas about natural phenomena or to acquaint themselves with databases from national or international projects or to conduct small scale qualitative research into experience of children and/or teachers in science education.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionIssues, concepts and theories in the field of distance education will be explored. Development and trends will be examined from the emphasis on independent study to emphasis on social activities and shared knowledge construction online and global. The focus will also be on research on distance education at different school levels in Iceland and other countries, distance learners and their needs, and teaching methods with different types of media. The design of distance or online courses and programs will be explored as well as international standards for such courses.
Students participate in online synchronous and asynchronous discussion about theory and practice concerning distance education (DE), engage in problem-based learning (group work) and do an individual project that could involve design of a DE course, a study concerning DE, or a paper on topics related to DE.
Distance learningPrerequisitesSNU008MLearning and teaching on the InternetElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe scope of this course is research and projects about communication, presentation and structure of content and learning environments on the Internet. The course is project oriented and workshop based and evaluation will be based on student participation and on-line work (eportfolio). Most class meetings and student work will take place on-line and in virtual spaces using various on-line tools. Students will work on tasks such as:
- prepare instructional material, interactive content and research articles for use in netbased learning environments
- participate in research/projects about Internet media in learning and teaching
- design learning environments and learning processes on the Internet where content, student learning spaces, evaluation, communication and group work are connected
- discuss research and innovative projects about use of Internet in teaching and learning and link new media with theories af learning and teaching
- design various forms of Internet learning environments such as elearning, blended learning, homework - learning outside the school.
Distance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSFG004MQueer pedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionObjective: The objective of the course is that students learn about concepts, theories and research in queer pedagogy. Furthermore, they will receive good insight into queer theory. Students will acquire critical view of schools and education and gain insight intof the reality of queer youth.
Topics include the concepts of gender, sexuality, intersectionality, masculinity, femininity, gender binary, heteronormativity and cisnormativity. Students gain insight into the main subject matters of queer pedagogy and the ways in which this field can shed light on education, pedagogy, leisure, and and society. The approach will be in the spirit of queer theory and social constructivist perspective, which will be employed to explain different views on gender, gender identity and queer sexuality. The course examines how the Icelandic school system directly and indirectly maintains a wide variety of discrimination and sustains institutionlized heternormativity and cisnormativity. New research, domestic and international, will be read, related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Furthermore, the course focuses on the training of future professionals working with children and teenagers in establishing a queer friendly atmosphere and incorporate queer realities into their work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME003MReligions in a multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course, people's religious needs, experiences and religious identities will be discussed together with selected parts oft the main religious traditions in the world. Religious practice - particularly in relation to school settings - religious ethics and common values of different religions will be discussed, as well as the position of religions today, cultural and religious conflicts and prejudice and misunderstanding concerning religions. Projects are linked to the field.
The aims of this course are that the student has increased his or her knowledge in the main religious traditions in the world, and in the basic theories and key concepts in religious studies. That the student understands the relations between culture and religion and the influences of those on the identity, life values and daily lives of children and families. That the student knows ways of dealing with matters of opinion related to religions in his or her work settings. That the student can collect, assess and analyse scientific data in the field of religious studies in a multicultural society and use suitable technical measures and software. That the student can initiate new studies and development projects and communicate his or her findings in a suitable manner. That the student has developed independent methods of working and is capable of further studies and research in the field of religious studies in multicultural settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesYear unspecified- Fall
- MAL102F, KME115FLearning and teaching: Supporting children with special needsRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
In this course students explore teaching of diverse groups in inclusive settings, emphasizing strategies to address diverse educational and sociological needs of students, guided by human values, democracy and social justice. The emphasis is on evidence-based strategies to address the most common students´ special needs related to reading difficulties, behavioral difficulties, attention deficit, hyperactivity, and autism spectrum disorder. At the same time the use of respectful, person-first language, putting strengths and talents of students in the foreground, is stressed. Multicultural teaching and teaching of students learning Icelandic as a second language will be addressed. Students will be introduced to classroom management strategies, individualized behavior support, multi-disciplinary and parent collaboration. The course focus is on inclusive, evidence-based practices that aim to provide students with special needs opportunities equal to those of their classmates.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMAL102F, KME115FWorking in inclusive practicesRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course aims to prepare participants to draw on their resources in their work with diverse groups of students. In the course, we draw on inclusive education theories and research, emphasizing a holistic and creative approach to preparation and teaching at the forefront. Furthermore, a focus is put on teaching strategies and educative assessment that works for diverse groups of students, and adapting teaching and learning to students with special needs.
Content
The focus of the course is on inclusive practices. How to create a learning environment that cares for all students learning is introduced. The focus is also on collaboration with parents, colleagues, professionals, and paraprofessionals.Work process
The course is a blended course online and on campus. It is divided into four main themes. All the themes connect to teaching in inclusive educational settings. The focus on each theme is three or four weeks.The teaching is through lectures, projects, collaboration, discussions in class, on canvas, and in formal assignments. The course is grounded in students' independence, responsibility, and participation.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME109FResearch on early childhood educationMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main focus of the course is on early childhood education and research within the field. Various topics and controversial issues will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on different views on children and childhood, cooperation between playschool and primary school, teachers’ pedagogical beliefs and cooperation between school and family.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
MVS213FIntroduction to quantitative ResearchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents in this course are expected to deepen their knowledge and skills in quantitative research methodology. Students will use a computer program for data analysis, with emphasis on interpretation and writing about research results. Students are expected to develop positive attitudes toward research and the value of research in educational and social settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classMVS212FIntroduction to qualitative researchMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on qualitative research methods. It looks at different movements and traditions in research methodology and their relationship to the structure and execution of research. The course also touches on the ethics of research, validity and different views of these concepts. Students will conduct a small research project, which provides training in a literature review, data collection, data analysis, and presentation of research findings. Students work as a team throughout the semester.
Readings, lectures, in-class discussion and group work. Sessions for distance students are held twice during the semester and participation is mandatory
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFAG201FEducation for sustainability – skills in a changing worldMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to work with conceptual issues in sustainability and global initiative such as those being implemented by the UNESCO. Examples of problems in the environment and nature will be explored, f.ex. climate change, decrease in number of species, soil erosion and pollution. Emphasis will be on the role of teachers in dealing with controversial issues and how they can teach children to analyse problems, evaluate information and put forward possible solutions. Participants read and use research about sustainability education. Participants will also examine their own angle to sustainability, their values and behaviour.
It is obligatory to attend classes during On Campus weeks, according to the academic calendar for School of Education.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
- KME301FTeaching and Learning – becoming a ProfessionalMandatory (required) course20A mandatory (required) course for the programme20 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse Description
This course focuses on providing the student teachers with competences for becoming professionals in their field, with focus on their subject area, and supporting them in laying the foundation for their own professional working theory. This will be obtained by building up knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities which is imbued in teaching and the skills needed for self evaluation in various situations in the field. An emphasis is also put on providing the student teachers with skills regarding the role of the classroom teacher and classroom management; team-teaching and co-operative skills; how to deal with traumatic experiences and children's welfare; and working with parents. Furthermore, research on school development, school evaluation and school ethos will be looked into together with research on teachers. Finally this will be linked with practicum.
Emphasis is on interactive lectures, inquiry and reflective studies, seminars, group work, projects, portfolios, field studies and fieldwork.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisites- Spring 2
GKY401LFinal projectMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe M.Ed. final project is an individual project of 30 ECTS credits. Students work on the project independently under the guidance of a project supervisor/supervisors chosen from among the academic staff at the School of Education. Students should consult the chair of their department on the choice of a project supervisor.
The thesis/project topic is chosen by the student in collaboration with his or her project supervisor and the department chair. The topic of the project should fall within the student's area of study, i.e. programme of study and chosen specialisation.
Various types of projects are permitted, for example, research essays, independent research projects, the development of new curricula or study materials.
Students sign up for the final project/thesis during annual registration via the Ugla Intraweb, and should register based on estimated progress in the fall and spring semester. In general, preparation for and work on the project takes at least two semesters. In some programmes the thesis is expected to spread over two or three semesters according to specific instructions, see under programme structure in the Course Catalogue for each programme.
Master´s projects are not awarded numerical grades but are marked pass or fail. Evaluation of projects are according to rules of the School of Education.
Students should follow the more detailed instructions and rules for M.Ed. projects set by the School of Education. See the School of Education intraweb, Ugla: Schools >> School of Education >> Master´s projects
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsGKY401FLearning and teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - fieldMandatory (required) course15A mandatory (required) course for the programme15 ECTS, credits12 fieldwork creditsCourse DescriptionThe main task of this course is fieldwork at the primary level of compulsory school. The emphasis is on actual teaching practice and giving the students opportunities to discuss, evaluate, reflect, and develop their teaching. Students will develop a teaching plan based on the national curriculum guide and school curricula. They will analyse incidents from their practice to learn from and improve their teaching. A range of teaching methods will be explored and applied in teaching in the field.
Students are in the field the whole semester in both courses (KME301F Teaching and Learning – becoming a Professional and GKY401F Learning and Teaching - field practice II d Teaching and Learning - field) and attend regular classes at the university. Emphasis is on interactive lectures, self-study, group work, and projects. The course of study is directly related to field practice. Various issues will be explored with concrete examples from school practice. Students read chosen materials and research on school practice, both provided by lecturers and chosen by students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Whole year courses
- Course Description
In the course, the student's task consists in being a mentor for participants that are upper secondary school students and university students in the project "Sprettur". Mentors' main role is to support and encourage participants in their studies and social life. As well as creating a constructive relationship with the participants, being a positive role model, and participating in events organized in Sprettur. The mentor role centers around building relationships and spending meaningful time together with the commitment to support participants.
Sprettur is a project that supports students with an immigrant or refugee background who come from families with little or no university education. The students in this course are mentors of the participants and are paired together based on a common field of interest. Each mentor is responsible for supporting two participants. Mentors plan activities with participants and spend three hours a month (from August to May) with Sprettur’s participants, three hours a month in a study group and attend five seminars that are spread over the school year. Students submit journal entries on Canvas in November and March. Diary entries are based on reading material and students' reflections on the mentorship. Compulsory attendance in events, study groups, and seminars. The course is taught in Icelandic and English.
Students must apply for a seat in the course. Applicants go through an interview process and 15-30 students are selected to participate.
See the digital application form.
More information about Sprettur can be found here: www.hi.is/sprettur
Face-to-face learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Fall
HÍT001FSocial Skills Training and Empowering with focus on positive classroom managementElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of the course is for participants – teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents – to increase their knowledge about methods that support appropriate child/adolescent behavior. Participants will learn how to use effective, evidence-based methods, built on trust and respect, which support social skills, empower youth, and foster their well-being.
Major topics include: a) Assessment of state of group management and strengths of child/adolescent groups. Creating and teaching behavioral expectations. Using clear directions to promote cooperation. b) Training in using various forms of encouragement, primarily with the whole group. c) Ways to achieve balance in using encouragement and managing difficult behaviour. Practical aspects of group management examined more closely and practiced. d) Strategic problem solving and important aspects of collaborating with parents. Reassessment of group management status at the end of the course.
Course arrangement
The course includes both in-class and home assignments for participants to apply and practice in the field, to enhance their own group management practices. Course activities include discussion, in-class exercises, and diverse group activities. Course assessment is based on reading assigned chapters and articles, submission of assignments completed by course participants and their child/adolescent groups, and active participation in on-line course discussions about course content.
Classes will take place in real-time on Zoom or on campus (during on-site session week) for a total of eight half days from August to November, during which time course content and skills will be reviewed and practiced. As part of course assignments, participants apply the methods themselves with their child/adolescent groups in the field, in between classes. The course involves active collaboration and field-based practice of the skills taught. Participants are given an opportunity to learn together and support each other in developing effective practices in working with children. A central goal is for participants to view the use of constructive, evidence-based methods to promote positive youth adjustment and educator job satisfaction as a shared responsibility of the entire school and leisure community.
The course is intended for all teachers and other educators involved in managing groups of children/adolescents in pre- schools, elementary schools, and in leisure work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSTM110FDevelopment in educational institutionsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe purpose of this course is to assist students in understanding some major concepts, theories, and models of development in educational settings with a focus on the enhancment of cultural conditions in order to encourage improvement. Students are expected to become competent in organising, planning and leading institutional development projects. The course is based on theories about schools and other related institutions as learning communities.
Ways of working
The course is structured in eight parts in distance learning. Two days are on campus during the term. Beside that students read and discuss online. They are also invited to participate in workshops on campus. Assignments are practical and linked with daily work. Student collaboration and discussions is emphases.Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG106FSustainability in textilesElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is on sustainability and environmental protection. The aim is to activate environmentally friendly thinking in action and to link sustainability in textiles to a sustainable and responsible lifestyle. Sustainable thinking, creativity and innovation are encouraged, to create something completely new or to renovate clothing and other textile products that already exist. The ideology of sustainable development and methodology and the process of design and innovation are followed; from the need and knowledge of subjects and technical methods to the development of ideas and experiments in search of solutions. The course provides tools, methods and solutions, but a new approach is created in each textile method each time new material is used. Reports are made of the results of the course in context with pedagogical aspects and the value of textiles in the society of education and teaching.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSTM015FLeadership in inclusive schools in multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course focuses on educational leadership and inclusive practice in multicultural society. The purpose is to prepare participants to lead the development of inclusive education in multicultural society. The focus is on leadership, democracy, human rights, collaboration and student resources, the recognition that they learn in different ways and have different backgrounds, abilities and interests. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership that builds on collaboration and listens to students, parents and colleagues.
The course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
UME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUMD078FIntroduction to data analysis using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe jamovi software is an open-source user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) for the R statistical programming language (see jamovi.org). The goal of this course is to make students capable of working independently with their own data, visualizing data, and applying statistical tools using the jamovi software. The first day of this three-day course will be devoted to introducing the jamovi GUI, descriptive statistics, and data visualizations. The second day will be devoted to categorical analysis and comparing two means using jamovi. The third day will be devoted to correlation and linear regression using jamovi. A special emphasis will be on visualizing data for increased clarity and enhanced learning. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch, students are expected to work in jamovi on their own computers. The textbook is open-source and is available online (see https://www.learnstatswithjamovi.com).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classUMD077FApplied multilevel modeling using jamoviElective course2Free elective course within the programme2 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe focus of the course will be on the use of multilevel models (MLMs; also known as mixed models or random-effects models). MLMs extend the use of multiple regression models and are used answer research questions where models must account for dependencies in the data. The three-day course will begin with a refresher on how to apply the general linear model giving examples of multiple regression, moderated regression, and polynomial effects. The second day of the course will be dedicated to two-level MLMs with cross-sectional data, such as when students are nested within classrooms and/or schools in cluster sampling. The third day will be devoted to the use of two-level MLMs with longitudinal data where timepoints (i.e., waves of data collection) are nested within survey respondents. The course will be taught three days in a row with interactive lectures and online examples that students are encouraged to follow. After lunch students are expected to work on the application on their own computers. Worked examples are available online (https://gamlj.github.io).
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterSTM210FRole of middle managers in schoolsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical knowledge of the role of middle-leaders in schools and in the field of leisure, with a special emphasis on their professional leadership and the value of interprofessional collaboration in the education system.
Distance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesLVG008MDesignhistory - fashion, textiles and furnitureElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionEmphasis is placed on the history of Egyptian design to the present day, focusing on clothing and utilities. The furniture and building history will also be seen in the context of decorations in homes such as upholstery and curtains. in an international context compared to the development of clothing and textile history in Iceland and connections with the economy, culture, museums and education.The program is organized with lectures and practical research projects involving a wide range of data collection and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesUME004MGender and educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe main aim of the course is that students get to know ideas and research on education in view of gender studies and the concept of gender. An overview of how ideas of gender and education have changed historically will be discussed as well as facts and critical viewpoints at all school levels. During the next academic year a special emphasis will be placed on the research and theoretical approach of selected researchers on girls and boys in schools and about the problems in education posed by the changing status of women at the time of globalization. Finally the focus will be on the Icelandic school system: the position, socialization and academic achievement of boys and girls; leaders and administrators; the national and school curriculum and the status of legalized education on gender equality at all school levels.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesKME202FParticipation in research in the Faculty of Education and PedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course students participate in research that is ongoing in the Faculty of Education and Pedagogy. They can chose between three projects to engage in. They will need to strengthen their knowledge on the subject and participate in collecting and analysing data.
PrerequisitesÍET002FLiterature and the fundamental pillars of educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will read different literary text which are well suited to the task of opening up discussions about the fundamental pillars of education as they are defined in the National Curriculum Guide for Compulory Schools (2013). These are: Literacy, Sustainability, Democracy and Human rights, Equality, Health and Wellfare and Creativity.
The reading list will reflect three main themes that are connected with the fundamental pillars. The reading material will also provide students with general competences in literature, language and expression. The three main themes are important for students from all departments within The School of Education. They are:
- Children and Development
- Equality
- Cultural Heritage and Society
The keywords of the course are: Literacy, vocabulary and interpretive skills
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Year unspecified
ÍET005MLiteracy and dyslexia in language educationElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description-
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesÍET206FIcelandic and the education of multilingual studentsElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn this course the focus is on Icelandic as a second language and the education of multilingual students in Icelandic compulsory schools. Language acquisition and language upbringing will be examined and the difference between acquiring skills in a first and a second language. The emphases will be on what it is that teachers in general need to know about the Icelandic language to be able to help their students make progress in the subject being taught.
The structure of the Icelandic language system, pronunciation, word formation, inflections, sentence structure, meaning of words and phrases, the three layers of the vocabulary, and various things related to language use will be studied. The purpose is to figure out what is most likely to be demanding for multilingual students in preschools who are acquiring the language, both in general but also due to personal differences, such as different first languages.
Based on this special attention will be paid to the teaching of different subjects and how they can be planned, taking in account students’ different level of Icelandic. Important aspect of that is how subject texts can be simplified to fit the needs of multilingual students.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningOnline learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classÍÞH036MHealth behaviour and food choiceElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course concerns health behaviour in general. The health behaviour of different age groups will be addressed as well as the association between biological factors, health behaviour and social status. How can behaviour, coping and stress affect health? Behaviour in relations to food and consumption habits is of particular interest. How is it possible to shape healthy habits from childhood, for example to influence food choice and overcome pickiness about food? Societal influence and the part of media is also addressed. The course literature is from various books and scientific articles from different fields and is intended to capture the subject in an interdisciplinary manner.
Distance learningPrerequisitesKME101FGender equality in schoolsElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe course introduces what is gender studies and how key concepts – such as equality, gender, gender roles, gender identity, intersectionality, queer studies, stereotypes, gender based violence, sex education, femininity, and masculinity – are useful to understand and organize schools. The course also focuses on the legislation about gender equality and gender equality education. The connections between gender equality and other types of equality are also dealt with, in accordance with the national curriculum for pre-, compulsory, and upper secondary schools. Emphasis is placed on that the students in the course can analyze learning environments, methods, and materials from a gender perspective. Also that they can analyze the choice of play in preschools as well as in breaks and school sport.
The fundamental perspective of the national curriculum that gender equality education should involve critical examination of hegemonic ideas in society and its institutions, in order to teach children and youth to analyze the circumstances that lead to discrimination of some and privileges for others, is a base for the course.
Required attendance to introduce own final assignment in the course.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classKME111FMathematics for diverse student groupElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic
Participants familiarize themselves with research on mathematics studies and how an understanding of mathematics develops. They learn to analyze the knowledge and understanding of the student group and evaluate their learning process. They learn about difficulties in mathematics that students encounter, their impact on learning, and the methods for diagnosing them. Participants acquire knowledge of teaching methods and resources for students of different backgrounds, including diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.Activities
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online, and through the course webpage. The coursework is based on lectures, seminars, and individual and group assignments.Students conduct a small-scale investigation on mathematical learning. Based on their learning in the course, they plan a developmental study within schools. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningThe course is taught if the specified conditions are metPrerequisitesKME116FMultilingualism and literacyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe aim of this course is to increase students’ knowledge and understanding about the influence that multilingualism may exert on the development of literacy. Reading development of multilingual children will be discussed, based on the orthographic systems of their languages, effective instrucion in Icelandic as a second language with newly arrived children at various ages, and also children with long residence who need effective support for their educational achievement. Participants of the course are encouraged to take account of high quality research findings, think critically about each topic based on their own experience, and to relate to their specific field and interests. The purpose of the course is also to encourage students to constantly seek for new knowledge, based on high quality research findings, as a means to develop their skills in the teaching of multilingual children.
Teaching will take place both at meetings and on the course's website. Presentations will be accessable on the website and students participate in discussions at the meetings and on the website.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterKME203FDevelopment of young children's mathematical ideasElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionTopic:
The focus of the couse is on new research on children's mathematical thinking. Students study the development of children's understanding of mathematics and mathematical content knowledge. Emphasis is on the foundation of mathematics learning that develops in the early years and how to build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities. Research methodologies applied in research on children's mathematical thinking will be explored.Activities:
Building a learning community where all participants are expected to be active in shaping the learning culture is at the core of the course. Students can participate on campus, online and through the course webpage. The course readings will be discussed and explored. Students participate in activities that will support them in being able to work in a creative way within their schools.Students conduct a small scale investigation on young children's mathematical learning. Based on their learning at the course they plan a developmental study within preschool or in primary grades. Emphasis is on how they can build a learning community that supports children in learning mathematics through play and everyday activities.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME205FThe Spectrum of Teaching Methods - Differentiated InstructionElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis course deals with the spectrum of teaching methods from direct and formal approaches to informal methods. Emphasis is put on theoretical underpinnings and research on teaching methods, especially Icelandic research. Special attention is put on examining differentiated and responsive approaches (such as the open school concept, flexible teaching, cooperation, multi-age teaching, problem-based learning, holistic education, project-based learning, negotiating the curriculum and authentic learning).
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterLVG005MDesign historyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents will work with ideas and design in connection with clothing and textiles, patterns, colors and shapes, fashion design, look and format. They also experiments with textile methods and textile materials. Special emphasis is placed on the work process from the idea of implementation and registration of information. Students will work on organized research and development work. Experiments in various methods in textile and clothing will be linked to historical and contemporary trends. Emphasis is also placed on the preparation and presentation of projects.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesLVG102FArt and Design HistoryElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionCourse Outline:
- Introduction to Art History.
- Methods of interpretation.
- Artistic movements in international History of Art and Design.
Course Format: Lectures, seminars and visits to local art museums.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionThis is an introductory course addressing theoretical, philosophical and practical issues related to action research. The history and development of action research worldwide will be outlined. We will take a look at ideologies and issues that divide action researchers into different camps. A special attention will be on action research in Icelandic schools an other educational forums, how it has developed until now and how it might be taken further. The main emphasis in the course is on learning in action: The participants will learn about action research through the process of conducting their own research project.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classSNU004MResearch and development in science educationElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionResearch in science education both internationally and in Iceland will be discusses. Research on practical work, place-based education and the attitudes and interest in science will be considered. The use of ICT and research and development in this field will be discussed.
A special focus will be research on what is involved when students learn science. Attention will be paid to the relationship between science and sustainability on the one hand and on the other what teaching methods seem to be affected. The discussion will be related to the national curriculum.Learning approaches include reading papers on research and development, creating concise abstracts about them nad discussing them on the internet and in class. Students must be able to collect information from a range of sources, present their ideads and assignments and take an active part in discussion. Students will become familiar with conferences and journal articles in the field, for example, but looking at the home pages of such conferences in order to identify important approaches in this field
It is expected that the participants gain a good understanding of different research methods used in science education research and develop a critical attitude toward such endeavour. Participants will be expected to make inquiries into their own practice as teachers and inquire into pupils' ideas about natural phenomena or to acquaint themselves with databases from national or international projects or to conduct small scale qualitative research into experience of children and/or teachers in science education.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesCourse DescriptionIssues, concepts and theories in the field of distance education will be explored. Development and trends will be examined from the emphasis on independent study to emphasis on social activities and shared knowledge construction online and global. The focus will also be on research on distance education at different school levels in Iceland and other countries, distance learners and their needs, and teaching methods with different types of media. The design of distance or online courses and programs will be explored as well as international standards for such courses.
Students participate in online synchronous and asynchronous discussion about theory and practice concerning distance education (DE), engage in problem-based learning (group work) and do an individual project that could involve design of a DE course, a study concerning DE, or a paper on topics related to DE.
Distance learningPrerequisitesSNU008MLearning and teaching on the InternetElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe scope of this course is research and projects about communication, presentation and structure of content and learning environments on the Internet. The course is project oriented and workshop based and evaluation will be based on student participation and on-line work (eportfolio). Most class meetings and student work will take place on-line and in virtual spaces using various on-line tools. Students will work on tasks such as:
- prepare instructional material, interactive content and research articles for use in netbased learning environments
- participate in research/projects about Internet media in learning and teaching
- design learning environments and learning processes on the Internet where content, student learning spaces, evaluation, communication and group work are connected
- discuss research and innovative projects about use of Internet in teaching and learning and link new media with theories af learning and teaching
- design various forms of Internet learning environments such as elearning, blended learning, homework - learning outside the school.
Distance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterSFG004MQueer pedagogyElective course5Free elective course within the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionObjective: The objective of the course is that students learn about concepts, theories and research in queer pedagogy. Furthermore, they will receive good insight into queer theory. Students will acquire critical view of schools and education and gain insight intof the reality of queer youth.
Topics include the concepts of gender, sexuality, intersectionality, masculinity, femininity, gender binary, heteronormativity and cisnormativity. Students gain insight into the main subject matters of queer pedagogy and the ways in which this field can shed light on education, pedagogy, leisure, and and society. The approach will be in the spirit of queer theory and social constructivist perspective, which will be employed to explain different views on gender, gender identity and queer sexuality. The course examines how the Icelandic school system directly and indirectly maintains a wide variety of discrimination and sustains institutionlized heternormativity and cisnormativity. New research, domestic and international, will be read, related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Furthermore, the course focuses on the training of future professionals working with children and teenagers in establishing a queer friendly atmosphere and incorporate queer realities into their work.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classNot taught this semesterKME003MReligions in a multicultural societyElective course10Free elective course within the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionIn the course, people's religious needs, experiences and religious identities will be discussed together with selected parts oft the main religious traditions in the world. Religious practice - particularly in relation to school settings - religious ethics and common values of different religions will be discussed, as well as the position of religions today, cultural and religious conflicts and prejudice and misunderstanding concerning religions. Projects are linked to the field.
The aims of this course are that the student has increased his or her knowledge in the main religious traditions in the world, and in the basic theories and key concepts in religious studies. That the student understands the relations between culture and religion and the influences of those on the identity, life values and daily lives of children and families. That the student knows ways of dealing with matters of opinion related to religions in his or her work settings. That the student can collect, assess and analyse scientific data in the field of religious studies in a multicultural society and use suitable technical measures and software. That the student can initiate new studies and development projects and communicate his or her findings in a suitable manner. That the student has developed independent methods of working and is capable of further studies and research in the field of religious studies in multicultural settings.
Distance learningPrerequisitesAdditional information The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.
Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.
Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.
Most of those who complete a degree in teacher education go on to become teachers, but people with a background in this subject can also find careers in other professions, either within the education system or elsewhere. Teacher education is internationally recognised and opens up a wide range of career opportunities.
An education in this area can open up opportunities in:
- Teaching in compulsory schools
- Teaching in preschools
- Specialist positions within the education system
This list is not exhaustive.
- The student organisation for student teachers at the University of Iceland is called Kennó
- Kennó organises events such as socials for new students, annual galas and workplace tours
- Get an insight into the lives of student teachers and qualified teachers through the Come and Teach project and the Icelandic Education Award
Students' comments Students appreciate the University of Iceland for its strong academic reputation, modern campus facilities, close-knit community, and affordable tuition.Helpful content Study wheel
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School of Education8:15 am - 3 pm.General ServiceStudents can use the Service Desk as the point of access for all services. Students can drop in at the University Centre or use the WebChat on this page.
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