Enrollment open for PBS TeacherLine late-spring, summer course terms
ARLINGTON, VA, April 19, 2012– With the rapid pace of technological change, educators are seeking professional learning experiences to help them stay current and develop critical teaching skills. PBS TeacherLine®, the premier provider of online professional development for preK-12 educators, has updated two more of its technology integration courses to address 21st century skills and incorporate the latest Web 2.0 tools. With these updates, nearly all of the PBS TeacherLine instructional technology courses now reflect the expanded role of technology in K-12 classrooms.
“Educators are frequently asked to incorporate technology and interactive components into their instruction, but oftentimes they lack the opportunities to develop skills mastery needed for teaching in technology-rich environments,” said Kim Smith, Vice President, PBS Education. “These updated professional development courses provide educators with digital learning strategies and tools they can immediately apply in the classroom to increase student achievement.”
PBS TeacherLine offers more than 80 online, facilitated courses in reading/language arts, mathematics, science, technology integration, instructional strategies, instructional technology and STEM. The courses are based on research-supported pedagogy, along with state and national education standards. Course enrollment for the May and June terms is now open, and courses start May 2 and June 20.
The recently updated technology integration courses include:
- TECH145: Teaching with WebQuests for Grades K-12 – Through the course, educators discover new Web resources that promote inquiry-oriented student learning and smart use of the Web for research and class assignments. Teachers explore WebQuests and learn to effectively integrate the latest Internet and Web 2.0 tools in the classroom. Learners design a WebQuest to enhance a classroom unit or curriculum area.
- TECH335: Publishing on the Web – Online publishing with and for today’s students, known as the "iGeneration," is becoming an integral element of the classroom experience as digital media technologies have permeated Americans’ personal and professional lives. The logistics of publishing on the Web are no longer a challenging process. The options and goals for publishing are limitless—tools that can create classroom Web sites, educational blogs, learning portals, wikis, and social media sites are easily accessible. The challenge for both teachers and students is to learn to use the Web wisely and meaningfully, and to be digitally literate. This course helps educators understand: the reasons for publishing on the Web and for developing a positive online presence; the methods and tools available for educational Web publishing; how to present content on the Web; the importance of following social media guidelines in schools; and the opportunity to publish online—both for students and educators—to grow academically and professionally.
For more information about PBS TeacherLine, to view the entire catalog of courses, or to enroll, visit www.pbs.org/teacherline.
About PBS TeacherLine
PBS TeacherLine is committed to helping teachers acquire the skills they need to prepare students for a successful future. PBS TeacherLine provides high-quality, affordable professional development for preK-12 educators through facilitated, online courses, collaborative learning communities, and exemplary Internet-based resources. Currently, more than 80 courses across multiple subject areas are offered. Teachers can earn continuing education units, professional development points, and graduate credits for course completion. The courses have been developed in conjunction with leading education organizations, including the Mid-Continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL), Concord Consortium, and International Society for Technology in Education. For more information, visit www.pbs.org/teacherline.
About PBS
PBS, with its nearly 360 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and online content. Each month, PBS reaches nearly 123 million people through television and more than 21 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front-row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’ broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. PBS’ premier children’s TV programming and its website, pbskids.org,are parents’ and teachers’ most trusted partners in inspiring and nurturing curiosity and love of learning in children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the Internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Pressroom on Twitter.
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Media contact:
Melissa Mills, PBS; 703.739.8134; mkmills@pbs.org
