Digital Video Development for Learning and Teaching

With advances in mobile and other digital technologies, it’s become commonplace for individuals to capture, edit and post video. With the YouTube, SnapChat, and Instagram generation, the global internet community has created a boundless repository of visual resources. This course will focus on the basic skills needed to capture, edit and publish quality video segments that can be used to enhance the educational experience. The course will also examine the best ways to curate new and existing visual elements.

Technology Integration Coaching*

By definition, instructional coaches work collaboratively with peer teachers to improve teaching. Educational technology coaches work toward attaining the same outcome but focus on the appropriate and effective uses of various educational technologies. Coaches work with teachers to identify a baseline of behaviors (practices and habits of mind), set meaningful goals for technology integration based on resources and student needs, assist teachers in developing technology literacy, aid teachers in effectively integrating various technologies into their daily teaching and provide ongoing supports for successful educational technology use. This course will investigate the basic tenets of instructional coaching and then delve into strategies to help teachers attain digital literacy and effective application of technology to enrich content through evidence-based practices.

* This class will be offered every semester.

Defining and Applying Digital Literacy in the Classroom

Digital literacy has been used in many contexts and has a very broad meaning. In this course, the term refers to the ability to seek out and use digital content, create and share original digital content, and evaluate digital content for authenticity and value. These are all essential skills for students to possess as they enter a technology-rich future. Participants will examine these areas and learn how to promote these skills with the respective students.

Leveraging Technology for Assessment of Student Learning

Assessment is a critical component in the teaching and learning process. When used effectively, data can be used to improve instruction and it can inform planning that is designed to meet the needs of all learners. This course will examine assessment from both a formative and summative perspective. It will identify effective processes and purposes for using assessment. As each area of assessment is explored, you will examine associated technology tools that can be used to support and enhance classroom assessment.

Mobile Devices for Teaching and Learning

This course will highlight significant ways that mobile devices can help to enhance and extend classroom learning. It will also address the unique challenges that schools face when adopting students’ own devices as a learning tool or when implementing a 1:1 project. Research and practical K-12 examples will be provided to support and address the many nuances of using mobile devices in the classroom.

Differentiation Supported by Technology

This course will provide educators with techniques for using technology to help create a stimulating, effective classroom for all students including English language learners, special education students and students with a variety of learning styles. Specific challenges and processes for managing a differentiated instructional setting with accommodations for alternative teaching, learning, and assessment will be discussed and researched. Students will explore the use of various technological tools to differentiate assessment of students' understanding and learning by using various assessment strategies such as instructional rubrics, student reflections, and portfolios. Using technology to manage ongoing assessment for diverse learners will be explored.

We’ll send you updates on classes available for registration and notify you of special events for educators.

Visit the Apply & Register page for complete application and registration details, including the link to the online application.

1. Apply for Professional Development rate
2. Upon acceptance (1-3 business days), activate network account
3. Register for course in BannerWeb (review class list for CRN)
4. Log into BannerWeb, Blackboard, UR email
5. Pay invoice when posted to BannerWeb

Registration Deadlines

You should apply at least one week prior to the start of each term. Applications are accepted as soon as registration opens for each term. Review Academic Calendars for annual dates and the Application & Registration page for term-specific dates. Use the following as guidelines:

• Fall: Classes generally begin in late August.
• Spring: Classes generally begin in mid-January.
• Summer: Classes begin in mid-May, generally the Monday after Commencement exercises.

Course Format

All Teaching Online classes offered in partnership with Discovery Education are offered entirely online.

• Spring and Fall terms last 15 weeks.
• Summer offers 5-week, 6-week, 8-week & 12-week terms.