Course Offerings

ART

NEW! EDU9221 Teaching Bible History Using Art   1 credit
Explores the use of religious imagery to teach about art, writing, and Bible history to help students gain a deeper understanding of biblical truth.
B Dobberstein
Sep 13 – Oct 15
Online

MATH

NEW! EDU9526 A Math Word Problem Intervention That Works   1 credit
Provides a grounded understanding of schema-based instruction for solving math word problems, an intervention for students with learning disabilities as well as an effective method for teaching all students, with practical applications in the classroom through modeling, planning, and implementation of the strategy.
J Mose
Oct 18 – Nov 19
Online

READING

1-Credit Course

EDU9525 Reading Intervention That Works: A Multisensory Approach   1 credit
Provides a grounded understanding of the Orton-Gillingham approach as one option for reading intervention for students with dyslexia, with practical applications in the classroom through modeling, planning, and implementation of the strategy. (Not intended for Orton-Gillingham certification.)
J Mose
Sep 13 – Oct 15
Online

3-Credit Course

SPE5204 Diagnosis and Remediation of Reading Difficulties   3 credits
Explores causes, diagnosis and assessment, prevention and correction of reading difficulties, as well as intervention practices useful to the classroom teacher and reading specialist.
C Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

SOCIAL STUDIES

NEW! EDU5111 Teaching Social Studies in an Inclusive Classroom   3 credits
Examines key issues related to teaching the social studies curriculum in an inclusive classroom. Centers on the fundamental questions: “What is the purpose of social studies?” and “How do we teach this complex content in today’s inclusive classroom?”
K Muente
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9520 Communicating Forgiveness   3 credits
A study of the scriptural teaching of forgiveness and the many ways this truth can be communicated vividly and meaningfully by God’s messengers.
H Lyon
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9521 A Scriptural Approach to Addiction Counseling   3 credits
An examination of addictions from a scriptural perspective, concentrating on the prevention and treatment of addictions. All common addictions will be studied, with emphasis given to alcohol, drug, and internet addictions.
A Siggelkow
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9524 Frontline Chaplaincy   3 credits
A study of the challenges faced by the protectors of society (military, law enforcement, and fire department personnel) and the information chaplains need to minister to them.
P Ziemer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9525 Geriatric and Care Facility Ministry   3 credits
A team-oriented approach to ministry for people who are aging or residents in care facilities. Provides both knowledge and skills for congregation members to provide spiritual care for the homebound and institutionalized.
D Krause
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9534 Grounded in Scripture   3 credits
An introduction to theology that focuses upon the scriptural teachings of special importance to chaplaincy ministry.
P Ziemer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

EDU9523 Classroom Procedures That Work   1 credit
Helps teachers establish classroom procedures to preserve instructional time, add structure, and remove opportunities for misbehavior.
B Clemons
Sep 13 – Oct 17
Online

NEW! SSC9501 Intercultural Learning for Christian Ministry   1 credit
Using the four-phase framework for intercultural development, this course will inspire educators, evangelists, and gospel workers to apply gospel truths in a pluralistic society by facilitating their understanding and engagement in cross-cultural ministry. Learners will apply intercultural learning principles to their area of ministry practice.
T Schwartz
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

EDU8101 Intellectual, Social, & Emotional Development   1 credit
The social and emotional development of preprimary children and its impact on cognitive functioning and instructional approaches.
J Sallquist
Nov 15 – Dec 15
Online

EDU8102 Operation & Management of ECE Programs   1 credit
An overview of the operation and management of early childhood education programs.
R Burgess
Sep 20 – Oct 15
Online

EDU8103 Developing Home & School Relationships   1 credit
Strong relationships are vital in early childhood ministries, especially in the area of mission outreach. Learn how to develop a family-oriented classroom, foster communication with families, and actively engage families in the school.
C Loomis
Aug 23 – Sep 17
Online

EDU8105 Encouraging Literacy Development   1 credit
Theoretical and practical approach to promoting children’s emergent language development in early childhood settings.
M Dorn
Oct 18 – Nov 12
Online

EDU5323 Early Childhood Curriculum   3 credits
An exploration of the director’s role in understanding theory, evaluating curriculum, and implementing a cohesive instructional approach throughout the early childhood learning center.
J Meyer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

EDT5002 Emerging Technologies in Education   3 credits
An investigation of recent trends in hardware, software, policy, and pedagogy to develop a clearer picture of the possibilities for emerging technologies in the K-12 classroom.
J Schmidt
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

NEW! EDT5010 Technology and Universal Design for Learning   3 credits
Using technology through the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to successfully engage diverse learners in the general education classroom. Participants analyze the learner, the content, and the instructional process for ensuring that all students have equal access to the school’s curriculum.
R Feld, K Muente
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9102 Practical Evangelism for Congregations   1 credit
Overview of key components that make up a congregational evangelism program and guidance for putting them into practice.
M Otterstatter
Sep 13 – Oct 17
Online

MS in EDUCATION

EDT5002 Emerging Technologies in Education   3 credits
An investigation of recent trends in hardware, software, policy, and pedagogy to develop a clearer picture of the possibilities for emerging technologies in the K-12 classroom.
J Schmidt
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

NEW! EDT5010 Technology and Universal Design for Learning   3 credits
Using technology through the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to successfully engage diverse learners in the general education classroom. Participants analyze the learner, the content, and the instructional process for ensuring that all students have equal access to the school’s curriculum.
R Feld, K Muente
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

EDU5105 Improving Instructional Methodology   3 credits
Equips participants to improve classroom instruction and to lead staff development initiatives. Attention is given to research on effective teaching practices, brain research and its impact on instruction, multiple intelligence theory, learning styles, differentiated instruction, and practical approaches for presenting these practices to teachers.
G Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

EDU5107 Cognitive Psychology   3 credits
The study of how information is acquired, processed, and stored (how the mind works) with implications for teaching and learning.
J Schaefer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

NEW! EDU5111 Teaching Social Studies in an Inclusive Classroom   3 credits
Examines key issues related to teaching the social studies curriculum in an inclusive classroom. Centers on the fundamental questions: “What is the purpose of social studies?” and “How do we teach this complex content in today’s inclusive classroom?”
K Muente
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

SPE5204 Diagnosis and Remediation of Reading Difficulties   3 credits
Explores causes, diagnosis and assessment, prevention and correction of reading difficulties, as well as intervention practices useful to the classroom teacher and reading specialist.
C Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

NEW! SPE5211 Foundations of Special Education   3 credits
An introduction to a variety of disabling conditions in children as described in IDEIA Special Education guides.
R Ehlers
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

MS in EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION

8 WEEKS! EDU5302 Supervision of Instruction   3 credits
Examines supervisory theory and provides a framework for matching supervisory approach to teacher need, preference, and career stage. Techniques for effective observation and collection of meaningful data are presented and practiced. The distinction between formative and summative evaluation and the need for both are emphasized. Students are equipped to apply developmental philosophy to supervisory relationships.
J Wiechman
Aug 23 – Oct 15
Online

8 WEEKS! EDU5309 Leadership for Change   3 credits
Creating a culture of learning and achievement that reflects Christ’s love for all. Identifies contemporary issues facing schools, including diversity and equity issues. Explores data-driven decision making and professional learning communities. Examines the dynamics of change in organizations and individuals, and how to lovingly implement needed reform.
J Meyer
Oct 18 – Dec 10
Online

EDU5323 Early Childhood Curriculum   3 credits
An exploration of the director’s role in understanding theory, evaluating curriculum, and implementing a cohesive instructional approach throughout the early childhood learning center.
J Meyer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

MA in THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

THE5004 History of Christianity   3 credits
A survey of major movements and individuals in the history of the church from the time of its birth in the 1st century through contemporary developments in the 21st century.
J Pless
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE5404 Ministering to Families in Crisis   3 credits
Defines family crisis, identifies some major theoretical frameworks for studying families in crises, considers major lifestyle transitions, and explores major catastrophic crises families face. Examines resources and strengths that enable families to deal with crises more adequately within a Confessional Lutheran worldview.
J Mears
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

3-Credit Course

EDU5105 Improving Instructional Methodology   3 credits
Equips participants to improve classroom instruction and to lead staff development initiatives. Attention is given to research on effective teaching practices, brain research and its impact on instruction, multiple intelligence theory, learning styles, differentiated instruction, and practical approaches for presenting these practices to teachers.
G Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

1-Credit Courses

EDU8534 Differentiated Lesson Planning That Works   1 credit
How do you plan lessons that help all students learn, no matter what their ability level? Design and create content area lessons based on student interests, needs, and strengths using differentiated instructional (DI) strategies such as flexible grouping, menu boards, cubing, web-quests, rafts, and tiered tasks.
C Pfeifer
Oct 18 – Nov 19
Online

EDU9520 Formative Assessment That Works   1 credit
Are all students engaged and understanding your lessons? The formative assessment process has been helping teachers improve student learning for the past 15 years. Learn how the process works and put it into practice in your own classroom.
J Meyer
Oct 18 – Nov 19
Online

Webinars

WEB0102 Differentiating Instruction to Benefit All Learners   4 clock hours
In a classroom of 25 students, most teachers will find 25 unique learners with specific and differing needs. How can one teacher address those unique needs in a manageable way? This webinar will show how differentiated instruction can work to the educational benefit of all of your students and respect your time and energy as a busy teacher. Planning structures, activities, and assessment ideas will be presented in addition to ways that teachers can modify and accommodate for students with learning disabilities.
C Pfeifer
Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

Learning-Focused Instruction Micro-Credentials

These Micro-Credentials are all online. You learn at your own pace. Earn 5 clock hours with successful completion.

BDG0100 Developing Background   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Developing Background Micro-Credential are able to connect students’ prior knowledge with new material to build understanding.
A Uher

BDG0101 Essential Questions   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Essential Questions Micro-Credential create and use overarching unit questions that stimulate student curiosity by connecting the key inquiries of the subject matter to students’ lives.
J Meyer

*BDG0102 Learning Target   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Learning Target Micro-Credential can design and share learning targets to support student learning. Evidence of learning is shown through an assessment called a performance of understanding.
C Melendy

*BDG0103 Quick Formative Assessments   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Quick Formative Assessment Micro-Credential can quickly check all students for understanding during the lesson and use responses to adjust the lesson and increase student learning.
J Meyer

*BDG0104 Full Formative Assessments   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Full Formative Assessment Micro-Credential check all students for a full or complete understanding of the learning target near the end of the lesson and use responses to adjust the lesson and increase student learning.
J Meyer

BDG0105 Active Engagement   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Active Engagement Micro-Credential engage learners in high cognition and high participation activities within a lesson to build student understanding.
A Uher

BDG0106 Summary & Practice   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Summary & Practice Micro-Credential create meaningful lesson closure, which includes skill reinforcement aligned to the lesson’s learning target.
A Uher

*These three micro-credentials will be awarded with the successful completion of the 1-credit course EDU9520 Formative Assessment That Works.

EDU5903 Observation and Conferencing   1 credit or 12.5 clock hours
Prerequisite(s): EDU5901
Develops ways to collect observation data in relation to teaching standards and to critique the ways in which data can be shared with the beginning teacher to improve their instructional practice and consequently student achievement.
J Schaefer
Sep 27 – Nov 8
Online

EDU5904 Coaching in Complex Situations   1 credit or 12.5 clock hours
Prerequisite(s): EDU5901, EDU5903, EDU5907
Analyze case studies and solutions to address challenging situations facing beginning teachers using research-based techniques and an understanding of human dynamics.
J Schaefer
Sep 7 – Oct 19
Online

EDU5905 Using Data to Inform Instruction   2 credit or 25 clock hours
Prerequisite(s): EDU5901
Apply tools and strategies to help beginning teachers analyze student needs, plan for differentiated instruction, and ensure equitable learning outcomes.
J Schaefe
Nov 1 – Dec 13
Online

THE1001 Biblical History and Literature I   3 credits
A survey of God’s grace through the literature of the Old Testament’s historical and wisdom writings, with a focus on the promises God made throughout the history of ancient Israel.
M Lenz
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE3001 Christian Doctrine I   3 credits
A study of those truths that the Bible, as the divinely inspired source of doctrine, presents concerning the author, the object, and the mediator of salvation.
M Smith
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE4001 Lutheran Confessional Writings   3 credits
Prerequisite(s): THE1001 or THE1002 or THE2001 or THE3001 or THE3002 or senior standing or consent of instructor
The origin, content, and significance of the confessions of the Lutheran Church as contained in the Book of Concord (1580).
M Lenz
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

THE9102 Practical Evangelism for Congregations   1 credit
Overview of key components that make up a congregational evangelism program and guidance for putting them into practice.
M Otterstatter
Sep 13 – Oct 17
Online

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SERIES

PDS0901 Teaching Evolution in the Light of Scripture   0 credits
Focuses on the need to address evolution. Examines the scientific evidence that seems to support the theory of evolution and how the same evidence can be viewed from a biblical standpoint. Suggests topics and approaches teachers may take when teaching evolution in the light of Scripture. Looks at how to balance faith and science.
D Fenske
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

Need a Faculty Inservice?

• Hitting the Reset on Classroom Management
• Serving Families in Crisis
• Quality Physical Education and Technology Resources
• Team Building and Leading in a Crisis
• Social-Emotional Needs of Students in Crisis
• Communication and Wellness With Technology

View the recordings from MLC’s OpenLearning Conference.
Recordings will be available until August 14.
Clock hours available with the completion of a short quiz.

CLICK HERE to Access the Recordings

3-Credit Courses

EDU5105 Improving Instructional Methodology   3 credits
Equips participants to improve classroom instruction and to lead staff development initiatives. Attention is given to research on effective teaching practices, brain research and its impact on instruction, multiple intelligence theory, learning styles, differentiated instruction, and practical approaches for presenting these practices to teachers.
G Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

8 WEEKS! EDU5302 Supervision of Instruction   3 credits
Examines supervisory theory and provides a framework for matching supervisory approach to teacher need, preference, and career stage. Techniques for effective observation and collection of meaningful data are presented and practiced. The distinction between formative and summative evaluation and the need for both are emphasized. Students are equipped to apply developmental philosophy to supervisory relationships.
J Wiechman
Aug 23 – Oct 15
Online

8 WEEKS! EDU5309 Leadership for Change   3 credits
Creating a culture of learning and achievement that reflects Christ’s love for all. Identifies contemporary issues facing schools, including diversity and equity issues. Explores data-driven decision making and professional learning communities. Examines the dynamics of change in organizations and individuals, and how to lovingly implement needed reform.
J Meyer
Online

EDU5323 Early Childhood Curriculum   3 credits
An exploration of the director’s role in understanding theory, evaluating curriculum, and implementing a cohesive instructional approach throughout the early childhood learning center.
J Meyer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

Learning-Focused Supervision Micro-Credentials

These Micro-Credentials are all online. You learn at your own pace. Earn 5 clock hours with successful completion.

BDG0113 Look-Fors   5 clock hours
The instructional supervisor who earns the Look-Fors Micro-Credential knows and clearly communicates what to look for when observing a teacher.
A Bitter

BDG0114 Data-Scripting   5 clock hours
Principals, directors, or instructional coaches who earn the Data-Scripting Micro-Credential can collect data on carefully selected classroom interactions using a Formative Scripting Tool and sort the data in ways that lay the foundation for providing effective feedback to teachers.
J Schaefer

BDG0115 Data-Seating Chart   5 clock hours
Principals, directors, or instructional coaches who earn the Data-Seating Chart micro-credential can collect and sort data on carefully selected classroom interactions around students’ understanding and engagement using a formative classroom charting tool.
J Schaefer

BDG0116 Walk-Through   5 clock hours
Principals or instructional supervisors who earn the Walk-Through Micro-Credential can conduct brief classroom visits that efficiently gather and communicate worthwhile and usable information about student learning.
A Bitter

BDG0117 Pre-Conference   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Pre-Conferencing Micro-Credential can carry out a pre-visit conference that sets the tone for a growth-oriented visit focusing on student learning.
K Horn

BDG0118 Post-Conference   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Post-Conferencing Micro-Credential are capable of conducting a post-visit conference that provides meaningful feedback to improve instruction and student learning.
K Horn

BDG0119 Coaching Stance   5 clock hours
Principals, directors, or instructional coaches who earn the Coaching Stance Micro-Credential can utilize a combination of three stances appropriately when discussing instructional performance with teachers. Evidence of learning is shown through an assessment called a performance of understanding.
J Schaefer

BDG0121 Evidence-Based Conversation   5 clock hours
Instructional supervisors who earn the Evidence-Based Conversation Micro-Credential provide timely and effective observation feedback based on observable data while avoiding judgments and opinions.
J Meyer

BDG0123 Ministry Development Plan   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Ministry Development Plan Micro-Credential can facilitate a goal-setting conversation that allows an educator to develop a goal statement that addresses professional growth and the effect of that growth on student learning.
A Bitter

BDG0124 Evaluation Form   5 clock hours
Teachers who earn the Evaluation Form Micro-Credential can appreciate the importance of summative teacher evaluations. In addition, they can collect evidence needed to properly, fairly, and thoroughly rate a teacher. Finally, they also demonstrate that they can use the new WELS summative teacher evaluation rubric to both collect relevant evidence and conduct an end-of-year summative teacher evaluation conference.
J Wiechman

SPE5204 Diagnosis and Remediation of Reading Difficulties   3 credits
Explores causes, diagnosis and assessment, prevention and correction of reading difficulties, as well as intervention practices useful to the classroom teacher and reading specialist.
C Pfeifer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

NEW! SPE5211 Foundations of Special Education   3 credits
An introduction to a variety of disabling conditions in children as described in IDEIA Special Education guides.
R Ehlers
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

3-Credit Course

EDU5107 Cognitive Psychology   3 credits
The study of how information is acquired, processed, and stored (how the mind works) with implications for teaching and learning.
J Schaefer
Aug 23 – Dec 10
Online

Webinars

WEB0101 Understanding Learning Differences   4 clock hours
God has designed each learner with a set of unique talents and challenges. This course will examine the various types of learning differences seen today in our WELS classrooms and discuss the specific strengths and weaknesses associated with those learning differences. The referral, assessment, and educational planning process will be examined with a focus on special education law in respect to private schools.
C Pfeifer
Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

WEB0102 Differentiating Instruction to Benefit All Learners   4 clock hours
In a classroom of 25 students, most teachers will find 25 unique learners with specific and differing needs. How can one teacher address those unique needs in a manageable way? This webinar will show how differentiated instruction can work to the educational benefit of all of your students and respect your time and energy as a busy teacher. Planning structures, activities, and assessment ideas will be presented in addition to ways that teachers can modify and accommodate for students with learning disabilities.
C Pfeifer
 Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

WEB0104 Instructional Strategies for Students with Attention Disorders   4 clock hours
About 5% of students age 9-17 are dealing with diagnosed attention disorders (ADHD/ADD). These students want to succeed but need a teacher who understands how to work with their unique minds. This webinar will help you become that teacher. You will explore the brain basics of ADHD and ADD and practical strategies for working with the students who struggle with them.
C Pfeifer
Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

WEB0105 Instructional Strategies for Students with Literacy Disorders   4 clock hours
Renewed interest in improving the basic skills of our students has increased pressure to start reading instruction sooner than ever before (Sousa 2007). But what is the developmentally appropriate time to teach reading and writing? How does the brain “learn” to read and write? This webinar will explore the brain processes involved in reading and writing and provide teachers with developmentally appropriate teaching strategies for students with reading and writing problems.
C Pfeifer
Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

WEB0106 Instructional Strategies for Students with High-Functioning Autism   4 clock hours
Medical professionals are now diagnosing autism spectrum disorders at an alarming level. Some statistics indicate that 1 in 99 children now has some type of autism spectrum disorder. Therefore, many of our classrooms probably have students on the autism spectrum. This webinar will briefly review the indicators of autism, study how the autistic brain works, and provide ways to enhance learning in students with autism spectrum disorders.
C Pfeifer
Oct 1 – Oct 31
Online

PSY9501 Acting on Hope I: Introduction to Bible-Based Counseling   1 credit
The first in a series of courses to prepare trained counselors for their role as a Christian counselor. Students develop a personalized use of God’s Word within an evidence-based best practice counseling framework in a way that honors God’s Word and meets clients’ counseling needs.

A Siggelkow
Sep 10 – Nov 24
Online