Early Childhood: Program Planning | This interactive distance learning course is designed to give you a new perspective on planning and implementing developmentally appropriate programs for young children from birth through age eight. In this course, you will learn what is meant by curriculum, assessment, evaluation and program planning as these terms apply to early childhood education. We will discuss historical perspectives and theories of childhood development, and examine best practice for early childhood education. |
Early Childhood: Typical & Atypical Development | This course explores contemporary best practice and perspectives on early childhood development. Content includes patterns and sequences of typical development for children from birth to six years. Emphasis is on individual differences, cultural influences, and the impact of developmental delay and disability during infancy, toddlerhood, and the preschool years. Discussion will also include instructional technology (IT) and assistive technology (AT) applications for this population. |
Educational Assessment | This course is designed to further develop the conceptual and technical skills required by teachers to help them identify their educational goals, and implement meaningful instructional strategies for effective learning by students with special needs. The focus of the course is on assessment for instructional programming and will outline procedures for designing or selecting, administering and interpreting, a variety of informal assessment measures typically used in schools. The presentation of assessment information in an acceptable format to parents and teachers is also be addressed. |
English Language Learner: Evaluation & Assessment | This course was written to help teachers understand concepts and terms related to evaluating and assessing students whose first language is not English. This course discusses high-quality assessment and the scope of assessments, including initial placement, annual assessments, and exit assessments. This course ends with a discussion of classroom assessments, including accommodations for those who need language assistance. |
English Language Learner: Language Acquisition | This course was written to help teachers understand concepts and terms related to educating students whose first language is not English. This course discusses developmental theories and how they apply to English language learners. The focus of this course is on the process of second language acquisition and the role of the classroom teacher. Included in this course is information about literacy development, integrating language, co-teaching, ELL instructional needs and the legal obligations of schools and teachers to provide services and about the types of programs schools might provide. |
English Language Learner: Linguistics | This course was written to help teachers understand concepts and terms related to educating students whose first language is not English. This course discusses how to understand theoretical foundations of linguistics and how to apply the knowledge and skills in linguistics in ELL classrooms and content classrooms. |
English Language Learner: Methods & Materials | This course was written to help teachers understand concepts and terms related to educating students whose first language is not English. This course discusses how to apply instructional methods in creating lessons; how to create a motivating and caring learning environment; how to integrate teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills; how to differentiate instruction for English language learners; and how to identify culturally appropriate curriculum and instructional resources. |
Flying WILD | 5th-8th | Birds are all around us. Whether you are at a school, nature center or your own backyard, you can find a feathered friend. Use Flying WILD to help teach about Nebraska’s birds! Initially designed to help schools or groups facilitate a Birding Festival, this dynamic guide can also be used to teach classroom or program lessons focusing on a wide range of birding topics. These interactive activities teach lessons such as adaptations, migration, habitats and conservation. |
Growing Up WILD | Pre-K - 3rd Grade | Early childhood education is critical to developing well-rounded adults with good critical thinking skills. Research has shown that quality early childhood education has a lasting impact on a child’s entire life – let Growing Up WILD be a part of your early childhood student’s day. |
Harassment, Bullying & Cyber-Intimidation in Schools | This course will discuss definitions and the personal, social, and legal ramifications associated with sexual harassment, bullying, and cyber-intimidation. The course will address what we know about these troubling areas. We will then explore preventative strategies as well as how school staff can address these issues when they occur. A clear understanding of what constitutes harassment and the harmful effects of harassment on people and institutions is essential to providing a safe and inclusive school environment for all. |