Web-Based College Classes For Teachers

One of the exciting developments on the World Wide Web is the availability of Web-based College Classes (i.e. "distance learning"). For teachers, this means the ability to earn State Board-Continuing Education Units and/or degree credits over the Internet (a much less expensive alternative to traditional campus-based classes). Some of these classes require some minimum days at a campus, but many are totally online experiences. Basically, if you can negotiate the Web and send e-mail you have the skills needed to enroll in these classes. The Distance Learning Channel also has a great site called Ed-X which provides information from over 1,500 universities and learning institutions worldwide.

World Wide Learn is a directory for online colleges, degrees, tutorials, workshops, and training programs in 54 countries.

All of the sites listed here have information about costs, registration, hardware and software required, skills needed, and course descriptions.

The Michigan Virtual University is a good place to start for online training. this is also where to get information about the Teacher Technology Initiative.

The MEA VOICE has assembled a GUIDE FOR GOING ONLINE TO FIND COLLEGE COURSES NEEDED FOR TEACHER RECERTIFICATION. The guide has links to 32 public and private universities.

One of the biggest players is Eastern Michigan University. For a list of their academic programs, go to EMU Online. EMU employs a cool program called "WebCaucus" that lets you get your assignments, chat with professors and classmates, and post your work. You can also get on a free Continuing Education NetClass Update Newsletter that will keep you informed about new class offerings. Or call 734-487-0407 for details.

Michigan State University has one of the most impressive Web-based university operations on the Net. Virtual MSU offers a full range of classes in an array of degree programs, including Education. Also available is an Educational Technology Certificate Program. Call 1-800-500-1554 for more information.

Central Michigan University is a popular place for teachers who want to take college classes, but they've also added online courses. Go to the CMU Academics Page for a complete list of classes (both on the Net and correspondence). You can also call 517-774-7884.

Marygrove College offers an Master in the Art of Teaching Distance Learning Degree. The phone number is 800-339-0736.

Ferris State's University Center for Extended Learning offers a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction. Classes meet in Flint on weekends and evenings. Call 866-387-9430.

There is also online access to the PRAXIS SERIES: PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENTS FOR BEGINNING TEACHERS from Educational Testing Services (ETS). Of particular interest to beginning teachers is the PRAXIS I: Listening Skills Test. (Click on the #20740 - Listening Skills Test link on the Test List and Fees page.

ESEA: New Federal and State guidelines are changing for all Title I parapros, and, perhaps, for all parapros. Information on the Pre-Professional Skills Tests, as well as samples of these tests, can be
accessed by CLICKING HERE. The following tests - PPST: Reading -PPST: Mathematics - PPST: Writing - and Listening Skills Test are the links you should view. The FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader is needed to view these documents.

ACT WORK KEYS: WorkKeys^Ž offers an innovative approach to bridge the gap between levels of job skills needed in the workplace and the actual skill levels of prospective employees. WorkKeys gives students and workers alike reliable information about their workplace skill levels and the skill levels required for jobs, enabling them to make better career and educational decisions. The WorkKeys system currently measures eight workplace skills. Each skill is described by a distinct skill scale.

You can also check on a specific university by finding their home page via any search engine. GOOGLE'S UNIVERSITY SEARCH is excellent for this.