An introduction to edconnects online professional development learning management system for teachers.

1. e-learning for educators Click to play Photo source: http://www.flickr.com/

2. Learning Management System Edconnect maintains and is consistently building a learning management system dedicated to teacher professional development. It’s a private system that provides a workspace for teachers to improve their practice via online courses, practical tasks and assessments.

3. A blended approach to learning E-learning assumes that the learner is motivated to learn and therefore the responsibility is placed mostly on teachers to complete course material. We have adopted a guide on the side approach to learning and help teachers develop their goals, choose courses and assist with any questions or issues they may have. There is accountability in the fact that practical tasks and assessments must be completed satisfactorily.

4. Guide on the side learning In a 21st century workforce professional development demands that learning be student-centric. We provide teachers with choices in their learning and time to complete it. It’s both theoretical and practical and ties into what they are wanting to achieve in their classroom. Image source: http://www.flickr.com/

5. Sage on the stage learning Some of the development we provide is directed at the school or syndicate level. We offer online workshops that groups watch on a large screen via screen sharing. This is a great way to promote or introduce an area for school-wide development. Image source: http://www.flickr.com/

6. How it works - Dashboard Each registered user has their own dashboard that provides them with access to their current and past courses. Current news about courses is also displayed.

7. How it works – Course overview Noticeboard Notices relating to a particular course are displayed here Once you have clicked on a course from your dashboard the course overview will be displayed. Course description: an explanation of the course content Course content Presented using slideshows, video, screencasts, websites and documents. Online course assessments and surveys are included in this area also. Passmarks and scores are displayed next to assessments. Additional documents Related professional readings and course assignments are included in this area.

8. Screencasts: are video screen recordings that demonstrate a process. They are very useful for demonstrating how to use software or computers in general. How it works – Course content Slideshows: are often used to introduce a course or to bring together lots of research around a particular topic. Video: Includes interviews with experts and classrooms in practice. We produce our own videos and embed videos available on the internet that relate to course material. Documents: Provide teachers with professional readings.

9. How it works – Assessment Online assessments: Are checkpoints for learning. They ensure teachers are working through all the material and have a good understanding of it. It is open book learning so teachers can refer to information while completing assessments. If a teacher fails to pass an assessment after 3 attempts our tutors will provide assistance. Practical tasks: Tasks are an important part of professional development as it provides teachers with an opportunity to implement their learning into their classroom practice. Teachers reflect on the task and provide evidence of use. Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/23311439@N03/2229872148/

10. How it works – Communication Email and Messaging: Students are able to message a tutor at anytime using the message centre. It works the same as any other email system and uses the teachers own school email address Feedback: Within each course module there is a feedback option. This allows the user to send feedback / questions about a specific need without leaving what they are doing. Group messaging: Course administrators are able to communicate with schools, teams, course members and individuals independently. The only issue for schools is ensuring our emails don’t go to spam or junk mail.

11. How it works – Communication Video Conferencing: Our preferred option for online meetings is using Skype. It’s free to use and the latest version has screen sharing. Screen sharing allows the viewer see what is on the trainers screen while listening to them speak. It can be used with large groups using a projector or with small groups on a personal computer.

12. How it works – Reporting Administrative response: The first purpose of reporting is so trainers can respond to learners needs and provide feedback where required. There are a variety of reports that allow us to respond to feedback and trends to improve our service. Personal information: Trainees are able to request a document outlining training they have completed. School Administration: School leaders are able to request reports on school and teacher progress.

13. How much? Considering there are no reliever costs, no travel costs and teachers can complete as many courses as they are capable of completing within the year, e-learning provides a very cost effective form of professional development. We also provide a school discount because we want to encourage teams of learners within your school to work together in their learning. Single Registration $395.00 / year 2 + Registrations / school $350.00 per teacher / year or $87.50 / term

14. What courses are available? At this point in time our courses are focused towards ICTPD and classroom pedagogy. Courses are being developed continually and in the future we aim to cover a broader range of educational topics and interests. Courses can be customised to meet your needs by mixing combinations of modules and courses.