Overview

Focuses on the principles and best practices of successful online facilitation on any learning platform. Participants will practice specific online communication skills with multiple tools, manage assessments and feedback appropriately, analyze and solve problems, and create a plan of action for teaching their next online course. This course includes strategies to engage diverse learners, support various learning styles, and handle conflict constructively in the online learning environment. Through class activities, practice course simulations, collaboration with colleagues, and dedicated coaching from the course facilitator, participants will gain the necessary tools to nurture a reflective online learning community.
Third Party Material: View/Purchase Required Course Materials
Target Audience: All K-16 educators; Prerequisite: entry-level technology skills.
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, or Mac OS X
• Preferred Browsers: For an optimal experience use Internet Explorer 7 (PC), or Mozilla Firefox 2 (PC or Mac).
  Updated versions of Web browsers are free from the following links:
  Internet Explorer , Firefox , Apple Safari
• Required Software:
  Microsoft Word
  Skype® chat tool (free download)
  Google tools: mail, docs, presentations (free use)
  pbwiki® 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 7.0, please add pls.rsmart.com to your list of trusted Web sites by going to: Tools > Internet Options > Privacy tab > Sites

**Please click here to check all online course registration deadlines. »

PLEASE NOTE
Registration for online courses closes at 8 a.m. EST, 1 WEEK prior to the start date with the exception of:

• INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY, which closes 2 WEEKS before the start date and
• NYSUT, which closes 3 WEEKS before the start date.