Graduate Course Description

Overview

This course introduces participants to existing frameworks for 21st-century skills developed by enGauge and the Partnership for 21st Century Skills. In particular, the course focuses on the importance of 21st century literacy, adaptability, and risk-taking skills. Participants will also learn important multimedia skills and how to share their creations through read/write Web tools such as blogs, wikis, podcasts, and social networks. The course covers new metrics and means of evaluating student work as well as the need for organizational change in order to integrate these skills into existing educational institutions. For the culminating activity, each participant will plan a student project that meets curricular goals and helps to develop 21st-century skills.

"It is important for us to teach skills for the 21^st century to the next generation.”

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Target Audience: All K-16 educators; Prerequisite: entry-level technology skills; intermediate technology skills recommended
Time Requirement: 6-8 hours per week
Course Format: Eight-week, facilitator-led with weekly assignments, and 24/7 online access

Graduate Credit: 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours

Technology Requirements
In addition to a computer, Internet connection (high-speed preferable), and a working email account, PLS courses have the following technical requirements:

• Preferred Operating Systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Mac OS X
• Preferred Browsers: For an optimal experience use Internet Explorer 7 or 8 (PC), or Mozilla Firefox 3 (PC or Mac).
  Updated versions of Web browsers are free from the following links:
  Internet Explorer , Firefox
• Required Software: Microsoft Word, google tools: mail, docs, presentations (free use), and Wikispaces account
• Required Web Browser Plug-In: Adobe® Acrobat® or Adobe® Reader™ This plug-in is required to view any of the PDFs within a course. Adobe® Reader™ may be downloaded for free using the following link: Adobe

Please note:

• If using Internet Explorer 6.0, security settings must be set to accept cookies.
• If using Internet Explorer 7 or 8, please add pls.rsmart.com to your list of trusted Web sites by going to: Tools > Internet Options > Privacy tab > Sites

The following applications will be used by the participants. These are freeware programs available via the Web or are free to download. Course instructions will include directions on how to install or use these applications.

• Google tools: mail, docs, presentations (free use)
• Wikispaces account