2009-2010 Catalog - Graduate School - Bethel University

Course DescriptionsPSYC603 • Individual and Group Skills2 creditsExploration of issues (abuse, divorce, domestic violence, chemical abuse, etc.)from the child and adolescent point of view, and understanding the impact theseissues have on their functioning. Focus is on core helping skills specific to thispopulation, including facilitating support groups, individual counseling skills, andapplications of cognitive behavioral therapy. Special attention is given to ethicalissues unique to working with children and adolescents and how gender, class,and culture diversity factors may influence the counseling process.PSYC609 • Therapeutic Play3 creditsFocus is on techniques in expressive therapies, with an emphasis on play therapy.Examination of the continuum from client-centered to directive therapy and theexploration of application possibilities based on client needs and the setting. Commonthemes in children’s play are identified, and the dynamics of interpretation areconsidered and applied. Learners will apply skills and techniques in working withchildren and acquire artifacts for the program portfolio. Prerequisite: PSYC611.PSYC610 • Applying a Developmental Perspective to Teaching3 creditsFocus is on child and adolescent growth and how it relates to learning. Examinationof historical and current learning theory. Topics include the significance of earlyexperience, cognitive and personal growth, character development, informationprocessing, and issues related to mainstreaming of special-needs students.PSYC611 • Art Techniques in Play Therapy2 creditsOverview of art therapy theory, research, and practice. Primary focus will be anexploration of the benefits of using drawing and other forms of artwork withchildren and adolescents. Includes demonstration and practice of various arttherapy techniques and discussion of possible applications in professional andnonprofessional settings.PSYC635 • Measurement and Assessment in Education(EDUG)3 creditsOpportunity for learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of theuses, misuses, and limitations of educational assessment techniques and tools.Focus is on the practices and principles involved in the assessment process forteacher-made tests, including: 1) psychometric theory, 2) test construction, and3) standards for teacher-made tests. Emphasis on alternatives to traditional formsof assessment, particularly authentic assessment. Emphasis also on ethical issues inassessment and factors that influence test performance. Learners will be requiredto investigate and discuss current scholarly research on a specific issue in the fieldof educational measurement and assessment.117