WICC I and II provide professional development focusing on the mastery of skills needed to be an effective online teacher and course developer. The content of both courses is application based and supported by current Distance Education theory and research. The learning activities incorporated in both trainings are designed to be practical and relevant. Learning activities include:

1. Introduction to materials, methods, and concepts unique to web-based instruction
2. Communication formats incorporating messaging and online discussion forums to facilitate electronic community building
3. Collaboration with participants and instructors to review, revise, and learn the critical skills necessary to work with others in the distance environment
4. Instructional design principles and concepts unique to online learning

Online Teaching: It IS for Me!!!
is designed to meet the needs of those who are experienced web-based instructors. Each part is based on iNACOL Standards for Quality Online Teaching.

1. Skills Assessment provides pre-training inclusive participant skills assessment based on iNACOL national standards. This component is required of all participants.


2. Fast Paced two-week mini-training provides experienced web-based teachers with pedagogically sound, pragmatic, and doable strategies to use when teaching online classes.


3. Specialty training modules offer a wide variety of trainings that deal with topics such as discussion forums, learning styles, assessment and evaluation planning, podcasting, and interactive teaching methods. These are assigned based on Skills Assessment results.

Fees:
Skills Assessment: $100.00
Two Week Mini-Training: $200.00; 9 CPE hours
Specialty Modules: $50.00 per module

Time for Completion: Varies
Format: Online

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"Unexpectedly, I learned more about myself and my teaching style and expectations as a result of this training. The new knowledge and skills I acquired will make me a better teacher. I can't wait to get back in the classroom (regular/online) this fall!"    WICC Training Participant

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Region 4's series of online teacher preparation trainings have been in existence since 2000 and were chosen as premier professional development for online faculties in New Jersey, Minnesota, Kansas, and Ohio.

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For information and and training dates contact:
Linda Behling Gillis, Ed.S.
Texas Virtual School Initiative Coordinator
1-800-992-9397
tvs@esc4.net
www.texasvirtualschool.org

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TEA has announced key partnerships to implement critical functions of the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN), including professional development for teaching online. Prior to teaching courses offered via the TxVSN, teachers are required to take TxVSN-approved professional development that specifically focuses on learning to teach effectively in the online environment. Information about course offerings, professional development, and participation in the TxVSN is available online at www.txvsn.org. Questions about the TxVSN should be sent to TxVSN Central Operations at TxVSNCentral@txvsn.org or call 1-866-93TxVSN (1-866-938-9876). Questions about Course Review should be sent to coursereview@esc4.net