M.S. in Computing Technology in Education (MCTE)
Introduction
Admission
Requirements
The
Curriculum
Concentration in Information Security
Program
Formats and Term Dates
Early
Admission into the Doctoral Program
Course Descriptions
Graduate
Catalog 
Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences home page
Introduction
The M.S. in Computing Technology in Education is designed to meet the needs of working professionals such as teachers, educational administrators, and trainers working in either the public or the private sector. The program blends educational theory and practice into a learning experience that develops skills applicable to complex real-world problems. It enhances knowledge of how computers, software, and other forms of high technology can be used to improve learning outcomes. The program’s online format offers full-time students the opportunity to earn the master’s degree in 12 months and working professionals the opportunity to earn the degree in 12–18 months. Many of the courses in the program have been approved for teacher certification in computer science (grades K12) or recertification by Florida’s Bureau of Teacher Certification. They may be taken as part of the degree program or independently. (Satisfactory completion of the master’s degree program does not guarantee that students will meet certificate requirements for their states.)
The M.S. in Computing Technology in Education with concentration in information security, requires a total of 42 credit hours (14 courses). Individuals may apply to take one or more certified information security courses as non-degree students. Courses in the concentration in information security are recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) based on its certification of the school’s curriculum for compliance with the requirements of NSA national
training standards NSTISSI No. 4011 (Information Systems Security Professionals) and CNSSI No. 4013 (System Administrators).
The Curriculum
Core courses (three credits each) If the thesis option is elected, two courses may be omitted.
MCTE 615 The Internet
MCTE 625 Survey of Instructional Technologies
MCTE 628 Instructional Systems Design
MCTE 630 Database Systems
MCTE 645 Integrated Applications
MCTE 650 Computer Networks (Cross-listed with MMIS 653)
MCTE 660 Multimedia Systems
MCTE 661 Online Learning Environments
MCTE 670 Learning Theory and Computer Applications
MCTE 680 Human-Computer Interaction
MCTE 690 Research Methodology
MCTE 691 Master’s Project in CTE
Computing Technology in Education with Concentration in Information Security (42 credit hours)
Students must take nine of the following courses (If the thesis option is elected, students must take seven of the following courses plus six thesis credits):
MCTE 615 The Internet
MCTE 625 Survey of Instructional Technologies
MCTE 628 Instructional Systems Design
MCTE 630 Database Systems
MCTE 645 Integrated Applications
MCTE 650 Computer Networks (Cross-listed with MMIS 653)
MCTE 660 Multimedia Systems
MCTE 661 Online Learning Environments
MCTE 670 Learning Theory and Computer Applications
MCTE 680 Human-Computer Interaction
MCTE 690 Research Methodology
MCTE 691 Master’s Project in CTE
Students must take all of the following courses:
MCTE 620 Management Information Systems (cross-listed with MMIS 620)
MCTE 621 Information Systems Project Management (cross-listed with MMIS 621)
MCTE 684 Information Security Management (cross-listed with MMIS 684)
MCTE 685 Information Security Policy, Privacy, and Ethics (cross-listed with MMIS 685)
MCTE 686 Information System Auditing and Secure Operations (cross-listed with MMIS 686)
Program Formats and Term Dates
The 36-credit hour master’s program is designed so it may be completed by full-time students in 12 months or by working professionals in 12–18 months. To earn the degree in 12 months, students must enroll in three courses per term. To earn the degree in 18 months, students must enroll in two courses per term. Terms are 12 weeks long and there are four terms each year.
Students electing the online format may participate in online classes from anywhere in the world where Internet access is available.
Students are provided NSU computer accounts but must obtain their own Internet service providers and use their own computer systems. New students are provided an orientation on computer and software requirements, online access, online tools and methods, and library resources. Online students use the web to access course materials, announcements, email, distance library services, subscription library databases, and other information and for interaction with faculty and fellow students. Online, interactive learning methods are based on the use of WebCT as a course management system. Online activities facilitate frequent student-to-faculty and student-to-student interaction. They are supported by threaded discussion boards, white boards, chat rooms, email, multimedia presentations, and assignment drop boxes.
Early Admission into the Doctoral Program
This option provides the opportunity for master’s students in computing technology in education to earn the Ph.D. in computing technology in education in a shorter time. See detailed requirements specified in the section Early Admission into the Ph.D. Program.
Course Descriptions
MCTE 615 The Internet (3 credits)
The Internet and online information systems associated with the evolving information superhighway. This course emphasizes the development of effective online skills so that bibliographic, full-text, graphical, and numerical information can be accessed in an efficient manner. It also addresses skills and approaches required to teach about the Internet.
MCTE 620 Management Information Systems (3 credits)
The application of information system concepts to the collection, retention, and dissemination of information for management planning and decision making. Issues such as personnel selection, budgeting, policy development, and organizational interfacing are discussed. Conceptual foundations and planning and development of management information systems. The role of MIS in an organization and the fit between the system and the organization. (Cross-listed with MMIS 620)
MCTE 621 Information Systems Project Management (3 credits)
Practical examination of how projects can be managed from start to finish. Life-cycle models/paradigms. Life-cycle phases. Project planning and risk analysis. Project control including work breakdown structures, project scheduling, activities and milestones. Software cost estimation techniques and models. Software quality assurance and metrics for software productivity and quality. Inspections, walkthroughs, and reviews. Documentation and configuration management. Automated project management tools. Software maintenance. Procurement of software services and systems and development of IS project specifications. Project management skills including leadership, team building, planning, time management, resource allocation, conflict management, and using IS project management in strategic planning. Ethics in project management. Case studies are used throughout the course to support concepts, principles, and problem solving. (Cross-listed with MMIS 621)
MCTE 625 Survey of Instructional Technologies (3 credits)
Students explore strategies for infusing instructional software and other technologies into various teaching and learning environments. Students will survey instructional software materials including: drill-and-practice, tutorials, simulations, instructional games, problem-solving software, and integrated learning systems, as well as emerging instructional technologies such as Web 2.0 technologies, visual immersion systems, and intelligent applications. Students are challenged to formulate their own informed vision of how instructional software and other technologies can influence teaching and learning.
MCTE 628 Instructional Systems Design (3 credits)
This course develops knowledge of instructional system design competencies appropriate for use in the development of computer-assisted instruction applications. Students will experience both theory and best practices from the areas of education and training. Students will explore and acquire instructional design skills and knowledge associated with problem identification methodologies, learner analysis, task analysis, instructional objectives, teaching strategies, instructional messages and evaluation.
MCTE 630 Database Systems (3 credits)
This course covers fundamentals of database architecture, database management systems, and database systems. Principles and methodologies of database design, and techniques for database application development.
MCTE 645 Integrated Applications (3 credits)
This course provides experience with the multiple roles of electronic spreadsheets, databases, and graphs in teaching, learning, and the management of instruction. Using an integrated software package, these tools will be used to develop and reinforce skills in organizing, problem solving, generalizing, predicting, decision making, and hypothesizing.
MCTE 650 Computer Networks (3 credits)
This course provides a framework for understanding computer network functionality, characteristics, and configurations. Topics include network topologies, protocols, and architectures and emerging trends in network technologies and services. The role of optical technologies in supporting national and international implementations is explored. Strategies for network planning, implementation, management, and security are introduced. Recent advances in standardization, internetworking, and deployment of LANs (local area networks), MANs (metropolitan area networks), and WANs (wide area networks) are introduced. (Cross-listed with MMIS 653)
MCTE 660 Multimedia Systems (3 credits)
Introduction to multimedia systems. Recent advances and future trends in learning technology and educational computing are examined. Definition of terms and concepts related to multimedia. Trends in the development and the use of multimedia. Tools, techniques, and guidelines facilitating the planning, design, production, and implementation of multimedia products.
MCTE 661 Online Learning Environments (3 credits)
The course explores research trends in the area of online learning. Students will explore the requirements needed for successful online learning and teaching. Topics investigated may include the process of teaching and learning in an OLE, evaluating effective courseware and online communications technologies, integration of technology into OLEs, working with online classroom dynamics, addressing the needs of the online student, making the transition to online teaching, promoting the development of an online learning community, comparing Learning Management Systems (LMSs), and investigating emerging trends in e-learning and e-training in industry settings.
MCTE 670 Learning Theory and Computer Applications (3 credits)
Students will explore learning theories and how learning is achieved when instruction is presented from a computer-based paradigm. The course will emphasize the computer as a learning device that can be used in an effective manner to model learning theories associated with behaviorism, cognitivism, and human information processing.
MCTE 680 Human-Computer Interaction (3 credits)
The field of human-computer interaction (HCI) is explored. HCI is examined in the context of the design and usability of education environments and technology use. Provides a broad and comprehensive overview and offers specific background relating to user-centered design approaches and how these approaches impact educational environments. Areas to be addressed include the user interface and software design strategies, user experience levels, interaction styles, usability engineering, and collaborative systems technology. Students will perform formal interface evaluations and usability tests that apply to educational uses of technology in various ways.
MCTE 684 Information Security Management (3 credits)
This course will integrate concepts and techniques from management and organizational behavior in order to identify, understand, and propose solutions to the problems of computer security and security administration. Particular focus will be on the role of managers in the security process and the development of effective policies and procedures. Prerequisites: MCTE 620, 621. (Cross-listed with MMIS 684)
MCTE 685 Information Security Policy, Privacy, and Ethics (3 credits)
This course covers the development and need for information security policies, issues regarding privacy, and the application of computer ethics. It also covers on legal issues and legislation that impacts the design, implementation, and administration of secure infrastructures. Prerequisite: MCTE 620. (Cross-listed with MMIS 685)
MCTE 686 Information Systems Auditing and Secure Operations (3 credits)
Information security ultimately depends upon correct usage of available security features. This course covers principles and practice related to secure operation of existing information technology. Topics related to security auditing and accountability will also be discussed. Prerequisites: MCTE 620, 621. (Cross-listed with MMIS 686)
MCTE 688 Continuing Thesis in Computing Technology in Education (1.5 credits)
Students who have not completed the thesis by the end of the second thesis registration must register for continuing thesis. This allows the student to receive faculty and administrative advice and support related to the thesis. Prerequisite: Completion of second thesis registration.
MCTE 690 Research Methodology (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to research, statistical analysis, and decision making. Close attention is paid to data types, data distributions, the identification of variables, sampling methods, research designs, hypothesis testing, and descriptive data presentation techniques. Students are introduced to both parametric and nonparametric data analysis procedures including t- tests, chi-square analysis, and simple analysis of variance.
MCTE 691 Master’s Project in Computing Technology in Education (3 credits)
This course is the capstone of the program. Each student will develop a comprehensive technology-based project using an environment of choice. Its purpose is to allow students the opportunity to further pursue topics or areas in which they have considerable interest. Each project will be closely mentored by faculty.
MCTE 695 Special Topics in Computing Technology in Education (3 credits)
This seminar focuses on the professor’s current research interests. Requires consent of course professor and program director.
MCTE 699 Master’s Thesis in Computing Technology in Education (3 credits)
The student develops a framework within which research will be conducted and offers evidence of qualifications to pursue the research. Concepts and theories underlying the student’s thesis research are articulated; the problem is clearly stated; specific, measurable goals are specified; a literature review is presented; the methods of conducting research are delineated; and strategy to achieve the goal is given. Registration for MCTE 699 must be repeated for three more credits, for a total of six thesis credits. Prerequisite: Completion of eight courses at the 600-level.
