Module Descriptors

Core Modules

Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment

This module helps students to gain knowledge of the nature of learning and what implications this has for teaching and curriculum implementation. The main themes will be theories of developmental and cognitive psychology, memory and the structure of knowledge, analysis of problem solving and reasoning, metacognitive processes, cultural experience and curriculum design. Expert vs novice performance, issues in transfer of learning, children as learners, and effective teaching and assessment for learning will be reviewed in the light of learning theories and the implications for various instructional strategies of subjects and student achievement.

Educational Policy and Change

This module introduces current and aspiring educators, policymakers, and leaders to critical thinking about educational policymaking. It explores theories, research, and real-world experiences, encouraging learners to reflect on their own beliefs and practices. Participants will gain a philosophical and practical understanding of policy development and implementation, conduct research, evaluate policies, make recommendations, and prepare policy briefs. Special focus is given to policy issues in the UAE and MENA region.

Research Methods in Education

This module equips students with the essential skills and understanding needed to conduct research for a Master’s-level dissertation. It emphasises critical analysis of educational research, enabling students to assess the relevance, validity, methodology, generalisability, and ethical considerations of existing studies. A range of research techniques and approaches are explored in relation to core and elective MEd themes. The module also covers data analysis, research writing, and strategies for dissemination to diverse audiences.

Concentrations modules:

Educational Management, Leadership and Policy:

Education Planning and Governance

This module examines the roles of key stakeholders—such as governments, institutions, and teachers—in shaping education reform. It explores how power, politics, and ideologies influence policymaking and practice. Through case studies and critical analysis, students explore governance structures, accountability, and how educational planning and policy affect equity, quality, and access. Learners will reflect on their beliefs about planning, policymaking, and governance, and understand their connection to student outcomes. They will also conduct research to inform practice, with a focus on planning and governance in the UAE and MENA region.

Leadership for Educational Effectiveness

This module emphasises the positive impact of leadership on educational effectiveness. It involves an in-depth exploration of leadership definitions, forms, and their influence on elements like vision, mission, processes, outcomes, and personal development. Students will receive support in identifying and enhancing their leadership capabilities. The module focuses on empirical research on leadership effectiveness, the use of research methods in local contexts, and the influence of cross-cultural factors such as norms, religion, modernization, cultural convergence, power distance, individualism, and the evolving role of women in leadership.

Managing Curriculum Innovation for Change in Education Practices

This module explores fostering, implementing, and managing curriculum innovation across educational settings. It covers theories, strategies, and practical tools for driving change, encouraging creativity, and supporting innovative teaching and learning. The module also addresses research, evaluation methods, and leadership in innovation. Through case studies and projects, students gain hands-on experience designing and managing innovation initiatives that meet learners’ needs and institutional goals.

Diversity and Inclusive Education

Differentiated Instruction for Inclusive Classrooms

This module develops students’ skills in designing and implementing differentiated instruction for inclusive classrooms. It emphasizes critical thinking, research, and communication, providing a deep understanding of issues related to strategic curriculum differentiation to meet the needs of all learners. The module also focuses on evaluating evidence of effectiveness in diverse settings and supports the creation of inclusive, diverse learning environments that accommodate students of varying academic abilities.

Exceptional Learning Needs and Gifted Education

This module provides an overview of educating learners with exceptional learning needs (ELN), including those who are gifted and talented. It focuses on four key areas: social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), dyslexia, and giftedness. It covers identification, programme planning, curriculum design, and pedagogy to support inclusive education. Highlighting the UAE’s advancements in mainstreaming special needs, the module addresses challenges like placement and individualised education programs (IEPs), alongside cultural, ethical, and legal issues in the UAE, Gulf, and developing countries.

AI and Assistive Technology in Inclusive Classrooms 

This module equips students with knowledge and skills to design and implement AI teaching tools and assistive technologies for inclusive education. It covers the latest trends, issues and AI tools, emphasizing support for all learners regardless of ability. Through critical thinking, research, and communication, students gain a deep understanding of assistive technologies and AI, enabling them to create least restrictive environments that foster learning and development in diverse, inclusive settings.

Applied Linguistics and Language Learning

First and Second Language Acquisition

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the processes underlying the acquisition of first and second languages. It explores key theories, models, and empirical research in the fields of linguistics, psychology, and cognitive science, examining how language is acquired, processed, and developed across the lifespan. Topics include the critical period hypothesis, input and interaction, cross-linguistic influence, and individual learner differences. Students will critically evaluate research findings and consider their implications for first and second language acquisition in diverse educational contexts.

Technology-Assisted Language Learning and Assessment

This module examines the role of digital technologies and AI in language learning, teaching, and assessment. It explores theoretical frameworks and practical applications of technology-assisted language learning, including computer-assisted language learning (CALL), mobile learning, gamification, and online collaborative tools. Students will critically engage with current research and evaluate the effectiveness of various digital tools and platforms in enhancing language acquisition and learner autonomy. It also investigates the use of technology in language assessment, addressing issues such as validity, reliability, and ethical considerations in digital testing environments.

Language Teaching Methods and Curriculum Design

This module explores key language teaching methods and curriculum design principles and practices of curriculum design. It critically examines traditional and contemporary approaches such as communicative language teaching, task-based learning, content and language integrated learning (CLIL), and learner-centred methods. Students study curriculum theory, syllabus design, materials development, and course planning, with a focus on contextual and cultural influences. The module prepares students to make informed pedagogical decisions and create effective, research-based language curricula for diverse learners.

STEM Education

STEM Curriculum Design

The module focuses on providing discourse and skills of STEM education, pedagogical, and curricular development. Specific emphasis is on STEM education’s foundations, frameworks, curricular designs, and the inter/multi/transdisciplinary connections among the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines. It introduces the major STEM education instructional models, such as the scientific method, inquiry-based learning, problem-based learning, project-based learning, creative and critical thinking, and engineering design. It covers main areas such as STEM pedagogical content, standards, models of integration, and application of STEM/STEAM/STREAM education to 21st-century skills and career aspirations, and opportunities for K-16 students in STEM education.

AI and Technology in STEM Education

The module provides knowledge, skills, and dispositions of research on AI and technology in STEM education. The focus will be on STEM education’s connections to AI, generative technologies, platforms, and technology resources. It provides students with a specific emphasis on AI’s latest trends and research on STEM education standards, student learning, teacher development, policy, management & leadership, and school/university practice. It covers main areas such as: Personalized learning, adaptive learning, intelligent tutoring systems, natural Language processing, etc, in the context of STEM education.

Assessment and Evaluation in STEM Education:

This module provides knowledge, discussion, and research for assessment and evaluation in STEM education. The STEM education and its multidisciplinary approach requires special understanding and research development for student assessment and programme/school/university evaluations and accreditations. The module covers areas such as assessment for and of learning, proficiency exams, teacher/instructor competency and qualification, outcome-based learning, backward design, feedback & progress reports, creating valid and reliable rubrics and performance tools, and grant writing in the context of STEM education.

Educational Psychology and Counselling

Developmental and Social Psychology

This module examines key concepts in developmental and social psychology, focusing on theoretical frameworks, research methods, and practical applications within education. Students will explore diverse perspectives, challenge traditional views of human development and analysing their influence on behaviour, learning, and motivation.

Content includes developmental stages from birth through old age, with emphasis on socio-emotional and cognitive changes. In social psychology, students will study how internal factors (like cognition) and external influences (like social environments) shape behaviour. Key themes include the self, attitude formation and change, attribution, pro-social behaviour, and group dynamics.

Introduction to Cognitive Psychology

This module offers an in-depth exploration of cognitive psychology, focusing on mental functions such as learning, memory, attention, perception, reasoning, language, and decision-making. It examines a range of theoretical approaches supported by experimental and empirical research, with particular emphasis on topics relevant to education.

Students will study the relationship between the mind and brain, the concept of modularity, and various cognitive theories. It addresses how different cognitive frameworks influence behaviour. Students will develop academic skills through an oral presentation and a scholarly paper on a cognitive psychology topic related to education.

Counselling Psychology: Theories and Approaches

This module introduces students to the core concepts, theories, and practices of counselling psychology, with a focus on supporting individuals—particularly school-aged children and young people—facing developmental and environmental stressors. It explores how academic, social, psychological, and societal factors contribute to individual distress and the need for professional support. Students will gain an understanding of the theoretical foundations of wellbeing and distress, and how to apply theory-based interventions to promote mental health and resilience.

Key topics include the history of counselling psychology, foundational theories, basic counselling micro-skills (such as interviewing, assessment, and case analysis), crisis intervention, and other non-clinical approaches. The module combines theoretical learning with practical application through assignments that demonstrate both understanding and skill.

Dissertation

This module concentrates on the development, design and completion of a student research dissertation as a partial fulfilment of the Master’s in Education requirement. Dissertations are intended to give students an opportunity to focus on an aspect of the taught subject matter and to investigate it in more detail. This will help them to develop skills as independent researchers. Students will also learn some of the techniques needed to conduct research and develop knowledge in the subject area of the programme of study.