Integrative Learning (Master of Education)

The Master of Education in Integrative Education are online programs offered in collaboration with The Institute for Educational Studies (TIES), an organization dedicated to integrative and holistic approaches to learning since 1987. Integrative learning is a process that transcends the boundaries of traditional education in a search for meaning beyond the separation of disciplines. It incorporates an ecological world-view that is interdisciplinary and socially trans-formative. The program compels individuals to develop systematic approaches to teaching and learning and includes practical strategies for designing learning environments that meet the needs of a culture in rapid transition. This is a three-semester, 36-credit program.

Integrating Theory and Practice (online)

The three-semester Master of Education in Integrative Learning enables educators to expand on their existing knowledge and explore an Area of Emphasis. This Emphasis Area is a reflection of the learner’s passionate interests or professional development aspiration and accounts for one-third of the credits required for graduation. Students choose a particular project or a burning interest and situate it as the context for their studies and the faculty helps provide the resources for that exploration. The integrative learning framework provides the context for all academic explorations. We identify this context as one that builds a sustainable future.

Students start new collaboratives in September. Our “all online” program embraces dialogue as the communication context. Students work in collaborative colloquia as part of an online learning community. Through 2015, our 20th year, we have reached over 400 students in 42 countries. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

• Articulate a deep understanding of integrative learning in written and oral exposition
• Apply what is learned in an experiential context
• Develop awareness of the social context and implications of the student’s area of emphasis
• Develop the ability to participate in a learning community and the personal development derived from collaborative experience
• Understand technology as an integral part of the education environment

Master’s Thesis (Culminating Project)

Students complete a Master’s Thesis in a focus area as identified in the student’s Area of Emphasis. Spanning the entire program, the objective of the Area of Emphasis is to deeply engage the student in a meaningful synthesis of integrative learning that culminates in an integrated Master’s Thesis. 

Note: The Integrative Learning program is NOT linked to Massachusetts Teacher Licensure.