Graduate Course Description

Overview

This course helps experienced and beginning educators in all subject areas build expertise in using technology as an effective tool to support and enhance learning in their classrooms. This course responds to the growth of educational technology and the increasing expectation that technology will be regularly integrated in the classroom. This course supports teachers in creating learning environments that integrate real-world problem solving with interactive, engaging multimedia projects. In these technology-infused classrooms, students work collaboratively with their teachers to meet curriculum standards and make meaning through problem solving, researching, designing, testing, and communicating.

"Students love to learn with the use of technology. There are many advantages and benefits of technology in the classroom.”

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

Third Party Material: View/Purchase Required Course Materials

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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

Note: Students who have taken the on-site version of this course, Merging Educational Goals and Interactive Multimedia Projects®, may not register for this online course.