Implementing Improvement Science Techniques - EDC-X728Z

Course Description

Credit Validation for DoDEA Participants Only

This book study is designed for continuous improvement teams and school leaders who want to explore the foundational ideas of improvement science. Learning to Improve: A Book Study on Improvement Science introduces participants to the core principles and tools of improvement science, as presented in Learning to Improve: How America’s Schools Can Get Better at Getting Better.

Participants will engage in thoughtful reading, reflection, and discussion to build a shared understanding of improvement science. The course emphasizes key concepts such as the PDSA (Plan–Do–Study–Act) cycle, systems thinking, and disciplined inquiry, laying the groundwork for practical application in educational settings.

By the end of the study, participants will be better equipped to identify opportunities for improvement and engage in informed conversations about change within their schools.

Learner Outcomes

• Explore improvement science by gaining insights into the foundational concepts and methodologies, emphasizing its relevance and application with teachers/teams

• Participate in group discussions and activities that promote shared learning and collective problem-solving

• Apply disciplined inquiry tools to uncover and identify areas for improvement, ensuring a data-informed approach to decision-making

• Implement small, consistent changes that lead to substantial and sustainable improvements in school practices through PDSA (Plan, Do, Study, Act) cycles

• Reflect through ongoing self-assessment to monitor progress and adapt strategies as needed

Course Details

Number of Units: 1.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for DoDEA Participants

Course Materials: Text, Learning to Improve: How America’s Schools Can Get Better at Getting Better  by Anthony S. Bryk, Louis M. Gomez, Alicia Grunow, and Paul G. LeMahieu available at Amazon.com or your local bookstore

University of San Diego – Graduate-Level Extension Credit Information

The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level extension credit(s) in semester hours through the Credit Validation Program. To earn units, participants must register for and successfully complete coursework through the external program provider.

Credits earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program are widely accepted by many school districts and universities across the United States for purposes such as license renewal, required professional development hours, short-term skill building, salary advancement, credentialing, and potential advanced degree pathways.

These units do not apply toward a master’s or higher degree program at the University of San Diego; however, they may be transferable to advanced degree programs (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at other institutions that accept external graduate-level credits.

Participants are responsible for confirming acceptance, transcript requirements, deadlines, and applicability of units with their employing district or intended institution prior to enrollment.

Directions to Enroll for Credit 

1. Enroll in this course with DoDEA

Please Note: USD does not provide course materials, manage instruction, or assign grades. All coursework is evaluated by the program’s instructor or coordinator.

2. Click “Add to Cart” located on the right of this page to purchase units. If this course displays “Request Information,” it means the course is either not yet open for enrollment or has already closed for enrollment.

Transcript Process: Final grades submitted by the program provider will initiate the transcript process. Grades should be submitted within 7 days of the official course end date or the course enrollment deadline—whichever comes last. Participants are responsible for ensuring their mailing address is accurate and up to date in their USD student account to avoid delays in transcript delivery.

Transcript Delivery Timeline:

• U.S. addresses: 2–3 weeks
• International addresses: 3–4 weeks