San Diego State University, Interwork Institute, has partnered with Pacific entities to provide degree and certificate training programs in American Samoa and other Pacific entities for the past 30 years. These programs have resulted in over 100 individuals completing graduate level programs.
For the 2007 Samoa Cohort, the SDSU Department of Administration Rehabilitation and Postsecondary Education (ARPE) will offer a program leading to a Master of Arts (MA) in Education with an emphasis in Educational Leadership in Postsecondary Education and Counseling. Students who pursue the MA degree will prepared for effective education management and leadership positions in changing multicultural societies and in varying organizational environments and specific courses in the area of counseling. Students will experience courses and learning experiences that are relevant and practical given the unique educational needs represented in Samoa. Related student research associated with the program is targeted to respond to critical issues facing American Samoa.
The program will utilize a blended facilitated distance learning model. This model provides face-to-face instruction for most courses and is supported through local learning facilitators who work with a lead instructor to ensure courses are relevant to student needs. Course content is delivered via the Internet and the use of CDs. Instructors interact with students via online discussions, web exercises, and audio and video lectures. Each course last approximately ten weeks. The program will take approximately two years to complete.
While working on courses, students are required to meet once a week with a designated learning facilitator in a "Circle Group" meeting. These meetings allow for content discussions, teleconferences by the instructor, and for students to develop a deeper sense of being involved in a professional learning community that will have local impact. Any questions about the program should be sent to Dr. Steve Spencer, Director, Center for Pacific Studies, or Dr. Theresa Lally, Program Coordinator.
