K-12 Online Teacher
Overview
Designed to prepare the K12 teacher in online teaching and learning based on the iNACOL National Standards, Version 2. Students will learn about federal and state policies related to online teaching and learning; have advanced knowledge of the development, implementation, and evaluation of quality online teaching and instructional design; and work effectively with other online instructional staff to meet the targeted learning needs of all students. Online teacher is defined as the work of an individual teaching online in a virtual school and/or in a blended setting. The online teacher provides professional guidance and expertise to virtual schools on effective curriculum, instruction, and assessment programs.
K-12 Online Options
Master's Degree Option
Online Master of Arts Degree Program, with Emphasis in Online Teacher Leadership
The Master of Arts in Education Degree Program is a two-year program. The master’s candidate must earn and successfully complete a minimum of 40 semester credits of graduate course work, including a graduate capstone. The candidate will earn a Master of Arts in Education in with an emphasis in Online Teacher Leadership
NOTE: Cost and Admissions Checklist can be found on the site linked above.
K12 Online Teacher Certification Three Course Option or Professional Development Single Course Options
This stand-alone graduate level Online Teacher Certificate from Western State Colorado University is designed for currently licensed teachers. These three courses are designed to prepare the K12 teacher to lead schools in online teaching and learning. This certificate is offered online to meet the needs of teachers and Virtual High Schools across the state and nation. Any or all of these courses can be taken by K12 teachers for professional development. These courses are not transferrable into the MA degree at Western State Colorado University. The nine online credits include the following courses:
EDUC 621 Engaging the K-12 Online Learner, 3 credits
A study of methods and strategies to engage the online K-12 learner. Educators will learn how to transition from traditional face-to-face classrooms to online settings. Focus will be on the key principles of effective online assessment/instruction and the power of the learner-centered approach to ensure success for the online teacher and learner. Prerequisite: Teaching License
EDUC 622 Assessing the K-12 Online Learner, 3 credit
A study of methods and strategies to assess the online K12 learner. Educators will learn the principles of effective online assessment and specific online tools and strategies. Focus will be on using assessment results to differentiate instruction and support the K-12 online learner. Prerequisite: Teaching License
EDUC 623 Field-Based Application of Online Instruction, 3 credits
Application of effective online teaching to an appropriate K-12 student population. Prerequisite: Teaching License
Cost: $175 a credit hour for in-state or out-of-state students
Admissions/Start Dates: All courses offered fall and spring semesters.
Application: To apply for this program for professional development, complete the registration form and return to Western State Colorado University, Extended University, 600 N Adams, Taylor 303, Gunnison, CO 81231 or contact Extended Studies, 800-876-5309, ext. 7.
