EPSY 530 Keeping Our Students Safe: Bullying Prevention and Intervention
Instructor: Catherine Ring or Stephen York
Course Description:
This course examines bullying behaviors from Pre-K through middle and high school levels. It considers the social/ecological relationships of bullying, educator/parental resources and “Best Practices” for addressing and preventing bullying in both school and cyberspace settings. The weekend schedule provides a rich, significant group experience. Participants will learn about their own school policies, look at case studies, and apply what they learn to their own school environment.
Course Outcomes:
- Define bullying at the elementary, middle and high school levels of education.
- Survey the social/ecological problems associated with bullying and their consequences—family, school, peers and society-at-large.
- Understand bullying as a social relationship problem.
- Consider legal implications for school personnel—administrators, teachers, and educational technicians.
- Explain and/or implement data-driven resources for combating bullying.
- Implement practical strategies to reduce bullying.
- Address the impact of technology on bullying.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of bullying prevention and response in your school.
- Interpret and implement the State of Maine’s “Best Practices” for bullying prevention and response.
- Use case studies as a methodology for understanding and addressing bullying.
Teaching Methods:
Instructional methods are highly participatory and may include large/small group discussions, direct instruction, multi-media presentations, problem-based learning, writing activities, modeling, practice with peers and reflection.
Required Materials:
Espelage, D. L., Napolitano, S. A., & Swearer, S. M. (2009). Bullying Prevention and Intervention: Realistic Strategies for Schools (The Guilford Practical Intervention in Schools Series) (1 ed.). New York: The Guilford Press.
