Source: Professional Learning Board

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Cross-curricular

Grade Level/Job Focus: All grade levels; teachers, tutors, mentors, paraeducators, with a focus on those not trained as reading instructors

Cost: $39 for self-study course; $150 for facilitated course; $250 for graduate course (price includes credit)

Course Description: This course focuses on strategies for reading instruction in all content areas. It includes research on reading and learning, student learning ranges, and the Cloze system. There is some facilitation, which is primarily monitoring of a discussion board.

Highlights: This program is rated highly for design features including clear, appropriate images and ease of navigation. It is also noted for strong research-based content. The program is very user friendly and practical. Those who are not reading teachers are given useful strategies that are easy to put into practice. It would be helpful for paraprofessionals who work with students on reading skills. There is an assessment (true/false) that leads to a certificate if the score is sufficient.

Limitations: The program is primarily text based and does not accommodate different learning styles. The program does not promote interactivity among colleagues. The assessment is primarily recall of information.

Run Time: 5 clock hours for self-study course; 15 clock hours for facilitated course

Credit Availability: For participants taking graduate level courses, 1 continuing education graduate credit is available from the University of St. Thomas. If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the other courses, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org .

Source: Professional Learning Board

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Cross-curricular

Grade Level/Job Focus: All grade levels; teachers, tutors, mentors, paraeducators

Cost: $39 for self-study course; $150 for facilitated course; $250 for graduate course (price includes credit)

Course Description: Participants will be introduced to learning styles for both adults and students and reflect on how instructor learning styles impact teaching styles. They will examine teaching and learning strategies to accommodate all learners and develop a plan to put teaching and learning changes into effect. Incorporated into the course are the Paragon Learning Style Inventory (Schindler), Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence, Bloom’s Taxonomy of Cognitive Domain, and C. Tomlinson’s approach to differentiation. The course is appropriate for classroom teachers and paraprofessionals. There is some facilitation, primarily monitoring of a discussion board.

Highlights: This course was highly rated for its alignment with state and national standards, its research-based content, and the quality supplemental resources. Opportunities were provided for reflection and journaling.

Limitations: The course is primarily text based and does not accommodate multiple modalities of learning. Progress through the course is not consistently tracked for the participant. The Review Board felt the course should be more strongly linked to classroom practice. The relatively low level of interactivity does not support collaboration. The Board believed the assessments were not meaningful.

Run Time: 5 clock hours for self-study course; 15 clock hours for facilitated course

Credit Availability: For participants taking graduate level courses, 1 continuing education graduate credit is available from the University of St. Thomas. If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the other courses, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: Knowledge Delivery Systems (KDS)

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Developing strategies to differentiate instruction based on variance in student readiness, interest, and learning approach.

Grade Level/Job Focus: Classroom-based educators and administrators at all grade levels

Cost: $400

Course Description: This course consists of lectures by Bruce Campbell, Debbie Silver, Carol Ann Tomlinson, and Rick Wormeli. They present classroom strategies to meet the needs of all students. Teachers will assess their own level of implementation of differentiated instruction, learn how to use assessment to drive differentiation strategies, and learn useful strategies. This course has a pre-assessment and a final exam.

Highlights: This course was rated highly for its research-based content and for expanding the knowledge and skills of the audience. The presenters had substantive things to say in a clear and insightful manner. Study guides are available.

Limitations: Although there is a discussion board, the format does not encourage extensive interaction with colleagues. The primary delivery structure for the course consists of 1½-2 hour video and audio lectures. Individual presentations were too long and it was hard to concentrate for that period of time. It was noted that, although each presentation had a clear scope and sequence, the same could not be said of the entire course.

Run Time: At least 15 hours; 45 hours with additional classroom-based projects to attain 3 graduate credits

Credit Availability: Three Graduate Credits are available through Chapman University College. Details can be accessed from the course website. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: I CAN Learn Education Systems

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Pre-Algebra skills

Grade Level/Job Focus: All teachers, including those teaching out-of-field, and education support professionals

Cost: $140

Course Description:  This course is designed to help teachers build a solid base of math content knowledge and provide methodologies and strategies for introducing concepts and teaching math objectives. The pedagogy focus includes building math concepts, improving math reasoning skills, building process and communication skills, increasing math vocabulary knowledge, and presenting strategies for finding contextual meaning. The program provides the glossary, calculator, and textbook pages for support. The video used in the program makes the participant feel as if s/he is interacting with others. The program checks for understanding; if the participant misses problems, there is in-depth explanation of the steps with both visual and auditory support.

Highlights: This course is designed very well. It’s highly visually appealing with a great variety in image, music, and activities. The program features a very diverse group of excellent and charismatic presenters. The warm-up feature for each lesson allows the participant to gain an understanding of his or her current ability with math. The chunking of the course is exceptional – there is constant review as the participant moves through the sections. There are excellent tutorials. When a participant answers incorrectly, the course continually checks for understanding as the participant moves through the individual sections. Because of the nature of the video used in the program, the participant feels as if s/he is interacting with others. The program does not require collaboration and instead deals with the skills a teacher might need to enhance or refresh.

Limitations: Because four courses are listed at the top of the page, participants can mistakenly end up in a different program than the one they intended to enter. If a user exits a section before completing it, s/he must repeat the entire section. Objectives need to be better defined to facilitate the user’s ability to write lesson plans that are specific to his or her content. While doing a great job on content, the program doesn’t address the pedagogy the teacher should follow in his or her lessons.

Run Time: Approximately 40-50 hours; supplementary resources require at least an additional 10-12 hours

Credit Availability: If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: I CAN Learn Education Systems

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Fundamentals of math for grades 6-8

Grade Level/Job Focus: All teachers, including those teaching out-of-field, and education support professionals

Cost: $140

Course Description: This course provides grades 6-8 math content knowledge through interactive video presentations, hands-on activities, and problem solving. The course provides math content knowledge, information on improving math reasoning, building process and communication skills in math content, increasing math vocabulary knowledge, and presenting strategies for finding contextual meaning in math. Each section has downloadable materials that complement the lesson. Each lesson starts with a connection to real world issues and uses the scenario to showcase application of math to everyday life. This course is primarily for educators who need to improve their math knowledge at grades 6-8.

Highlights: This course is good for teachers and paraeducators who need to learn math content. This course would be valuable for non-math teachers, pre-service teachers preparing for Praxis, and for educational support professionals who assist with classroom instruction in middle schools or are working on their certification. There is a great user guide with instructions on how to navigate the course. The tutorials are excellent and they contain a wealth of knowledge and are clearly narrated. The chunking of the course is excellent since there is constant review as the user moves through the sections.

Limitations: While the course provides excellent content knowledge, it does not provide teaching strategies. The program is not designed for multiple participants, collaboration, or reflective practice. There are ease of use issues: if a user exits a section before completing it, s/he must repeat the entire section; users can’t skip sections or videos.

Run Time: Approximately 40-50 hours; supplementary resources require at least an additional 10-12 hours

Credit Availability: If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: I CAN Learn Education Systems

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Fundamentals of math for grades 3-5

Grade Level/Job Focus: All teachers and education support professionals

Cost: $140

Course Description:  This course provides grades 3-5 math content knowledge through interactive video presentations, hands-on activities, and problem solving. The course provides math content knowledge, information on improving math reasoning, building process and communication skills in math content, increasing math vocabulary knowledge, and presenting strategies for finding contextual meaning in math. Each section has downloadable materials that complement the lesson and each lesson starts with a connection to real world issues and uses the scenario to showcase application of math to everyday life.

Highlights: This course is good for teachers and paraeducators who need to learn math content. This course is appropriate for non-math teachers, pre-service teachers preparing for Praxis, and for educational support professionals who assist with classroom instruction or who are working on their certification. There is a great user guide with instructions on how to navigate the course. The tutorials are excellent and they contain a wealth of knowledge and are clearly narrated. The chunking of the course is excellent since there is constant review as the user moves through the sections.

Limitations: While the course provides excellent content knowledge, it does not provide teaching strategies. The program is not designed for multiple participants, collaboration, or reflective practice. There are ease of use issues: if a user exits a section before completing it, s/he must repeat the entire section; users can’t skip sections or videos.

Run Time: Approximately 40-50 hours; supplementary resources require at least an additional 10-12 hours.

Credit Availability: If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: NEA Academy Department

Course Review: Presentations are provided as a resource to stimulate thinking and conversation on significant topics in education. They are not offered as a formal instructional course and therefore are not subject to review by the Content and Quality Review Board.

Content Focus: Presentations focus on a variety of public education issues.

Grade Level/Job Focus: Varies depending on the presenter and topic. Other presentations will be added regularly.

Cost: Free to NEA members and to non-members.

Course Description: These presentations focus on a variety of public education issues including: response to intervention; teacher quality; teacher preparation; national board certification; English language learners; and closing the achievement gap.  Nationally renowned presenters share their past and current research with participants, as well as their ideas on the need for future research. Copies of the transcripts, PowerPoint presentations, and additional resources are available for downloading.

Highlights: These presentations provide insightful and current analyses of the most pressing issues faced by educators, researchers, and policy analysts.

Limitations: Because these are not real-time presentations, online viewers are not able to participate in the discussions that occur after the presentation.

Run Time: Each video session runs between 45-60 minutes.

Credit Availability: Graduate Credits are not available at this time. If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: Knowledge Delivery Systems (KDS)

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Different needs and learning styles of students and strategies for accommodating many styles in one classroom.  

Grade Level/Job Focus: Classroom-based educators and administrators at all grade levels.

Cost: $150

Course Description:This course consists of lectures by Susan Winebrenner. Topics covered include Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, a modified Dunn and Dunn model of learning styles, self-esteem and confidence, and recent research on students who have difficulty in traditional classrooms.

Highlights: This course was rated positively for its design and content. It was highly rated for appropriate, clear objectives; for its alignment with state standards; and for its ease of use. 

Limitations: Although there is a discussion board, the format does not encourage extensive interaction with colleagues. The primary delivery structure for the course consists of video lectures. Although the presentations could be used as a basis for a learning community, the program is not designed with that purpose in mind.

Run Time: 15 hours to attain CEUs or 1 Graduate credit

Credit Availability: Renewal credits are approved in many states. One Graduate Credit is available through Adams State College. Details can be accessed from the course website. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org .

Source: CE Credits Online 

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: This educational tool focuses on problem solving strategies in mathematics.

Grade Level/Job Focus: This course is appropriate for educators who are looking for new strategies and techniques to engage students in mathematics problem solving.

Cost:$255

Course Description: This course explores a wide range of instructional strategies for math problem solving and math communication. People who take this course can learn to create exciting math lessons, focus on strategies that can be applied across all grade levels in mathematics, and learn practical ideas and instructional strategies that they can immediately use with their students. This course also looks at teaching strategies that can help students accomplish the four main tasks of problem solving: understanding the problem and what it is asking; analyzing the problem to determine its structure; choosing a solution process and carrying it out correctly; explaining that process, both orally and in writing.

Highlights: This course is rated highly for expanding the knowledge and skills of the target audience and for content-specific pedagogy. There are opportunities for interaction with the instructor through the forum and journal. There are a variety of assignments including journaling, discussion forum, and implementing activities in the classroom and reflecting on their impact. There is a bibliography of print resources within each module.

Limitations: This course is heavily text-based, compared to other courses reviewed, however it was noted that it is easy to follow. Although it is suggested that teams from a school participate, there is limited opportunity to interact with other program participants.

Run Time: This is a 45-hour course, eligible for 3 semester credits.

Credit Availability:CE Credits Online is an approved provider for professional development in at least 12 states. Graduate credits are available through various higher education institutions. There is a link on the CE Credits Online website where participants can learn about agreements with their states. Learn more.

Source: CE Credits Online

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: This educational tool is applicable to all levels and types of content.

Grade Level/Job Focus: This course is appropriate for all school staff including administrators, teachers, and ESPs - anyone who interacts with students.

Cost: $85

Course Description: This course is designed to help educators understand their school's discipline policies and to better manage violent and disruptive behaviors. The content focus is on maintaining safe environments for students and using non-physical strategies and techniques. Rights and responsibilities of school personal in the disciplinary process are explored.

Highlights: This course was rated highly for expanding the knowledge and skills of the target audience. Content was highly rated. There are opportunities for interaction with the instructor through the forum and journal. Several reviewers commented positively on the use of video clips in the program.

Limitations: The "Constructive Discipline" series, of which this course is a part, is based on the work of Dr. William Glasser. However, the specific research supporting the strategies suggested in this program is not referenced from the course itself. Reviewers noted that the video clips do not represent the diversity of our classrooms and that male students are overrepresented in examples of "problem students." There are few links to external supplemental resources. Several reviewers noted that there is limited opportunity to interact with other participants.

Run Time: This is a 15-hour course, eligible for 1 semester credit.

Credit Availability: CE Credits Online is an approved provider for professional development in at least 12 states. Graduate credits are available through various higher education institutions. There is a link on the CE Credits Online website where participants can learn about agreements with their states. Learn more.

Source: CE Credits Online

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: This educational tool is applicable to all levels and types of content.

Grade Level/Job Focus: All grade levels and positions where education staff interacts with parents. It would be useful for paraprofessionals, although the prime focus is on the teacher role in conducting parent conferences.

Cost: $85

Course Description: This course provides a seven-step interview process for working with parents who may be defensive or difficult. The goal is to create an environment where school personnel and parents work together as partners toward student success. There is a focus on being thoroughly prepared for a parent conference by organizing thoughts and observations in a professional manner. This is a facilitated course, but it is asynchronous (presentations and chats do not require that participants be online at the same time.)

Highlights: Several reviewers noted that the videos demonstrating the content and modeling the suggested behavior are very good. There are forum and journal entries, allowing feedback from the facilitator. There are multiple opportunities for application and reflection on the content presented.  Reviewers felt that the content in this program is strong and critical information for educators to possess.

Limitations: The "Constructive Discipline" series, of which this course is a part, is based on the work of Dr. William Glasser. However, the specific research supporting the strategies suggested in this program is not referenced from the course itself. Reviewers noted that there is little student or faculty diversity represented in the video clips. There are no links to external supplemental resources. Several reviewers noted that there is limited opportunity to interact with other participants.

Run Time: This is a 15-hour course, eligible for 1 semester credit.

Credit Availability: CE Credits Online is an approved provider for professional development in at least 12 states. Graduate credits are available through various higher education institutions. There is a link on the CE Credits Online website where participants can learn about agreements with their states. Learn more.

Source: PBS Teacherline

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: Using multimedia to enhance student learning

Grade Level/Job Focus: All Teachers and Education Support Professionals

Cost: $169.15
This is a 15% discount from the regular price -- only the first 500 NEA members to sign up will get this discount.

Course Description: The overall goal of this course is for the participant to develop skills in using multimedia that promote student learning and high-level thinking skills.  There are assignments throughout the course culminating in a final project.   This is a facilitated course is with required assignments at specific times throughout the course.  Customization comes with the participant’s ability to select projects that are relevant to her/his teaching situation.  Graduate credits are available for an additional fee.  Several free audio and video programs are required for the course to work properly, so it is important to use the built-in “check your computer” link to make sure that all components are in place before beginning. Instructions and links are provided to download any missing programs.

Highlights: This course is easy to use and to navigate. The format allows all students to personalize their final project.  The course is challenging—it is not just a “how to” course on using multimedia, but it provides educators with a framework to make the right multimedia decisions to promote high level student learning.  There is a clear and detailed rubric provided for all assignments.  This course is very interactive with other participants.  Students have to constantly reflect on what they have written, and also provide feedback to others on what they have written.   The course is based on the NETS standards of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).

Limitations:  Although the course is linked to national standards, links are not provided to state standards so it is important to check with local or state agencies to be certain that this course meets requirements for state license renewal. (Most states build their standards on ISTE-NETS).  Occasionally reviewers noted a slight disconnect between online instructions and current versions of different software programs, however any such problems can be corrected by the online facilitator.  Reviewers noted that phone tech support is only available during daytime M-F, and would prefer availability 24/7.  Online tech support and a tech forum available but response time is unclear.

Run Time: 30 hours (5-6 hours per week for 6 weeks)

Credit Availability: Graduate credits are available for all PBS courses from Adams State College or Indiana University-Bloomington for additional fees. Learn more.

Source: PBS Teacherline

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: Teaching Reading in the Content Areas

Grade Level/Job Focus: Elementary and Middle School Teachers with adaptability for High School Teachers

Cost: $169.15
This is a 15% discount from the regular price -- only the first 500 NEA members to sign up will get this discount.

Course Description: The pedagogy focus area includes differentiated instructional practices to help teachers incorporate research-based reading strategies in the content areas and into specific content lessons.  The goal is to build student reading skills in all instructional activity.  The course has expectations of periodic interaction among the participants including an online journal and a virtual learning community.  A comprehensive final project is required, involving implementation of reading in the content area strategies and reflective evaluation of the impact on student learning.  The use of rubrics for each activity and the assignment checklist helps the participant understand expectations and measure learning within the scope of this class.  The course is aligned with National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and International Reading Association (IRA) standards.  There is a graduate credit option for an additional fee.

Highlights: This course offers a variety of formats that enhances online learning communities.  It includes collaborative interaction, synchronous and asynchronous discussion, journals, videos, audio, text, surveys, and papers.  There is a strong emphasis on reflection, requiring participants to implement reading strategies and to evaluate the impact of these strategies.  The knowledge and skill brought by the participant to the course is honored.  The content is strong—the course is built on best-practices research. 

Limitations: There was no diversity of images observed in videos or photographs in the course.   The reviewers noted a lack of variety in the way content was conveyed, and would like more video and multimedia presentation.  Reviewers noted that most examples were from elementary and middle school, which already have an emphasis on learning to read.  High school teachers would have trouble connecting to this course.  Either more high school examples should be included, or a separate course developed for high schools.

Run Time: 30 hours (5-6 hours per week for 6 weeks)

Credit Availability: Graduate credits are available for all PBS courses from Adams State College or Indiana University-Bloomington for additional fees. Learn more.

Source: PBS Teacherline

Course Review: The Content and Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus: This educational tool is applicable to all levels and types of content.

Grade Level/Job Focus: K-12 Teachers

Cost: $169.15
This is a 15% discount from the regular price -- only the first 500 NEA members to sign up will get this discount.

Course Description: This is the first course in a two-part sequence on curriculum mapping, an educational tool aimed at fine-tuning the scope and sequence of the curriculum that students encounter through their 13 years of schooling.  Content of the course includes:  the basics of curriculum mapping, the history and purpose of curriculum mapping, the role an individual teacher plays in curriculum mapping, the types of maps, and the various data collected in the maps. Participants will apply what was learned in mapping and planning their own curriculum.   Graduate credits are available for an additional fee.  Participants are expected to contribute regularly to an online discussion with their fellow students.

Highlights: This course is versatile:  any educator should be able to use this course to organize content to increase comprehension and coordinate curriculum vertically and horizontally.  The course is also broadly focused, encouraging schools and systems to deepen student understanding of the skills and knowledge targets in an organized and articulated manner.  Reviewers encourage participants to take this course with colleagues in their school or district, as curriculum mapping is a collaborative and not just an individual activity.  This is a facilitated course with clear requirements, frequent prompts to continue or complete work, and very clear rubrics detailing expectations for assignments and participation. It is clear, well organized, easy to use, and incorporates a variety of current articles and resources.

Limitations: There are a limited number of still images – the course is primarily text based, with readings and written work.  The video clips are few in number (and short), but do have useful content.  Very few of the images, still or video, represent the diversity of our teacher or student population.

Run Time: 30 hours (5-6 hours per week for 6 weeks)

Credit Availability: Graduate credits are available for all PBS courses from Adams State College or Indiana University-Bloomington for additional fees. Learn more.

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Local Treasurers Training

The Online Local Treasurers Training is comprised of several modules; the first five modules cover the basics of the local treasurer’s roles and responsibilities with special emphasis on fiduciary responsibilities and internal control. Additional modules are introduced periodically to give the local treasurer information on current and emerging issues. All training takes into account the non-financial background of many treasurers and was prepared with minimal technical language while providing a wealth of information.

The Enhanced Operational Standards module covers operating policies and procedures developed to strengthen internal controls and improve the governing of Association finances. Key operating policies such as conflict of interest, code of ethics, whistleblower and investment policies are discussed. Recommended standards of reporting, dues reconciliation and banking relationships are covered as well.

The New Pronouncements and Lessons Learned module covers regulatory reporting in greater detail than the basic modules, focusing on tax-exempt status, reporting for employees vs. independent contractors and new Internal Revenue Service and Department of Labor reporting requirements.

The modules may be viewed in their entirety or individually, one module at a time, at the treasurer’s convenience. Each module is less than 15 minutes. The training program should take less than 1 ½ hours. A certificate is available upon completion of the basic course.

Source:  Educational Impact

Course Review: The Quality Review Board recommends this course. Learn more.

Content Focus:  General

Grade Level/Job Focus:  K-12 teachers and instructional paraprofessionals

Cost:    $69

Course Description: This program presents instructional research focused on instructional strategies, literacy skills (including reading, reflection, note taking, vocabulary, compare and contrast), learning styles, curriculum design, and instructional learning teams.  The content is presented by using streaming video of researchers, teachers in their classrooms, and teachers working in learning teams.  Robert Marzano, Harvey Silver, and Richard Strong are featured.  There are downloadable text files and materials to accompany the presentations.  This program would be most effective if the course were taken with several participants from the same school or district, creating interactivity through professional learning teams.

Highlights: The Review Board gave high marks to this program for the research basis of its content and the way in which the program links the research presentations to classroom applications of the research. This course is non-facilitated, but does have a feature where you can "Ask the Expert." It emphasizes professional collaboration.  Design and navigation features were highly rated.  The supplemental resources are extensive and helpful.

Limitations: Assessments of participant learning are limited to multiple choice responses.  There are opportunities for the participant to implement the strategies in their classroom, however, the program would be strengthened if there were ways to reflect and follow up on implementation through interaction with other educators.   This program is lacking in diversity in presenters and in the classrooms where the videos were filmed.

Run Time:  Straight run-time takes approximately five hours, but completing the exercises, collaboration, and reviewing written materials requires at least 10 - 12 hours of participant time.   The program is best experienced over several weeks or months to allow time to try out suggested strategies in the classroom and to discuss the content in learning teams.

Graduate Credit and CEUs Availability: The creator of this course (Educational Impact) has arranged a graduate credit option through several universities, for an additional fee and supplementary assignments to be submitted to the participating universities.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy, you should print the course description from the Web site and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: NEA Research Department

Course Review: The Research Scholars presentations are provided as a resource to stimulate thinking and conversation on significant topics in education. They are not offered as a formal instructional course and therefore are not subject to review by the Quality Review Board. The presentations could be used by a local or a school cohort as the basis for creating a learning community.

Content Focus:  Varies depending upon  the scholar.  Among the scholars featured are Deborah Loewenberg Ball, University of Michigan; Patricia Gandara, University of California - Los Angeles; Gary Orfield, & Nell Noddings, Stanford University; and William F. Tate, Washington University in Saint Louis.  Other scholar presentations will be added regularly.
   
Grade Level/Job Focus: Varies depending upon the scholar. Sample topics include: 

• Improving mathematics learning for all
• The crisis in the education of Latino students
• Race and schools, the need for action
  Re-imagining American Schooling for the 21st Century
• When school reform goes wrong

Knowledge workers and the need for opportunity expansion.

Cost: Free to members and to non-members. 

Course Description: These presentations focus on a variety of teacher quality and public education issues including teacher preparation, national board certification, English language Learners, and Closing the Achievement Gap.  Nationally renowned scholars share their past, current, and need for future research with participants. Copies of the research briefs and PowerPoint presentations are available for downloading.

Highlights: These presentations provide insightful and current analyses of the most pressing issues faced by educators, researchers, and policy analysts.  The featured research scholars are nationally and internationally recognized for their contributions.
 
Limitations:  Because these are not real-time presentations online viewers are not able to participate in the discussions that occur after the presentation.

Run Time: From 45-minutes to 1 hour per session.

Credit Availability: Graduate Credits are not available at this time.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the Web site and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source:  Educational Impact

Course Review: The Quality Review Board recommends this course.  Learn more.

Content Focus:  English as a Second Language

Grade Level/Job Focus:  K-12 teachers and instructional paraprofessionals

Cost:   $69

Course Description:  This program provides strategies for all classroom teachers and paraprofessionals to use in working effectively with students of limited English proficiency. Some of the instructional strategies featured include intentional visual cues and activities, modeling of the learning, guided practice, independent practice, demonstrations, grouping techniques, cooperative learning strategies, utilizing graphic organizers, and direct instruction.      

Highlights: The course features extensive video segments of effective classroom strategies.  It was highly rated for research-based content, extending content-specific pedagogy, being inclusive and appropriate for all cultural groups, and providing ongoing feedback on progress. The program provided downloadable text files, PowerPoint presentations, and transcripts for the videos. 

Limitations: The assessments are multiple choice.  The program was not designed in a way to effective encourage collaboration or reflective practice. There was also no user guide or manual of suggested activities to incorporate in the classroom setting.

Run Time:  Straight run-time takes approximately five hours, but completing the exercises, collaboration, and reviewing written materials requires at least 10 hours for participants.  The program is best experienced over several weeks or months to allow time to try out suggested strategies in the classroom.

Credit and CEUs Availability: The creator of this course (Educational Impact) has arranged a graduate credit option through several universities, for an additional fee and supplementary assignments to be submitted to the participating universities.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy, you should print the course description from the Web site and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source: NEA Health Information Network

Course Review: The Quality Review Board is currently reviewing this course. Learn more .

Content Focus: Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) for schools and educator workplaces. The content is also applicable to other workplaces and homes where IEQ may be an issue.

Grade Level/Job Focus: K-12, all job categories

Cost: No cost to NEA members. Others can obtain course access through request to a local or state NEA affiliate.

Course Description:  Participants will learn how to identify, prevent, and resolve Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) issues including mold and moisture problems, chemical exposure, asbestos, radon, and more. Topics include: the basics of IEQ and what factors affect it, the negative health and performance consequences of poor IEQ, common contaminants and hazards, and how to organize effectively to resolve IEQ issues. Users can search for information on a specific topic or take the course for professional development credit. The course is divided into five modules: Welcome and Introduction; Introduction to IEQ and Schools; Factors That Affect IEQ; Understanding Common Pollutant Sources in Schools; and Effective Organizing Strategies.

Highlights: Content is delivered by experts including NEA members and state association staff who have experience in dealing with IEQ issues. Pre- and post-knowledge based assessments for each module. Built in activities and extra credit projects. Course content modeled after U.S. EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools (TfS) guidance.

Limitations: Limitations of the course will be noted depending on the evaluation of the Content and Quality Review Board.

Run Time: This is a 4 hour course. Completing supplemental readings and projects will require a minimum of 20-30 hours.

Credit Availability: Graduate Credits are not available at this time. If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course. If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.

Source:  NEA Content & Curriculum Team & Educational Impact

Course Review:  The Quality Review Board recommends this course.  Learn more.

Content Focus:  Pedagogy strategies that will work with all learners with a focus on language acquisition.  This pedagogy will work with all curriculums.

Grade Level/Job Focus:  K-12 teachers and instructional paraprofessionals

Cost:  $69

Course Description:   This course takes participants through five phases of implementing a pedagogy based on the CREDE (Center for Research on Education and Diversity) standards.  Educators are assisted in interfacing with students one-on-one, scaffolding instruction according to student needs, allowing students to be responsible for their own needs, and thoughtfully planning content that connects to the meaningful context in each student's life. The program has a number of classroom videos that provide participants information on how each phase is implemented.  The program is recommended for colleagues working together and provides participants with peer coaching techniques throughout the modules.  The program was developed in partnership with the Illinois Education Association and the Consortium  for Educational Change.

Highlights:  The CREDE pedagogy has received top rating for programs in reading and English as a Second Language by the U.S. Department of Education What Works Clearinghouse.  Integral to this course are coaching strategies that can be used either by coaches working with teachers or colleagues working together in a learning community.  Assignments are embedded throughout that require educators to implement in their classrooms.  Video footage throughout the course enables participants to see the pedagogy in action. There is quite a lot of video that is excellent in both video and sound quality.

Limitations: This course has a limited number of secondary classroom video segments.  It is strongly suggested that this course be implemented in a cohort in the same school or district over the course of a semester or an entire school year. It would be very difficult for this to be completed by a teacher individually. When a participant leaves the program and comes back to it, the individual will come back to the same section -- but not exactly where he or she left off. This makes it incumbent for the user to keep track of his or her progress. Some video clips are repeated which may appear to the user to be unecessary. However, they are done to emphasize a point or to help the user to grasp difficult knowledge.

Run Time: 10 hours.  Implementation of the classroom strategies, coaching colleagues, and reading supplemental materials will require 30-40 hours to complete.

Credit Availability:  Graduate Credits are not available at this time.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the Web site and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.  

Source:  Educational Impact

Course Review:  The Quality Review Board recommends this course.  Learn more.

Content Focus:  General

Grade Level/Job Focus:  K-12 teachers and instructional paraprofessionals

Cost:  $69 special NEA member discount

Course Description:  Although the title is  "Differentiated Instruction for Inclusion," this course has a broad-based pedagogical focus and covers the topics of classroom management, assessment, curriculum mapping, instructional design, and intervention models.  The program features classroom video clips demonstrating a variety of instructional formats.  There are also extensive downloadable text files extending the participants' learning.

Highlights:  This course was rated highly for deepening content knowledge, incorporating research-based content, and for its design features (ease of navigation, etc.)  The program is rich with classroom-based video examples of the strategies being proposed.  This course will be most effective when a school or district cohort participates as a group and discusses and observes the strategies being implemented.

Limitations: This course was specifically developed for the Ohio Department of Education.  For that reason you will find the pedagogy based on the Ohio Department of Education Standards.   There is little diversity in the student population shown in the videos.  Some reviewers found the content (more than 17 hours of classroom videotapes) overwhelming, and suggested that participants might want to complete one section at a time and then try the strategies out in their own classroom.

Run Time:  The run time for this course is approximately 20 hours, including all the videotapes.  Participants who complete the supplementary readings and who try these strategies in class would require at least 10-12 additional hours.

Graduate Credit and CEUs Availability:  The creator of this course (Educational Impact) has arranged a graduate credit option through several universities, for an additional fee and supplementary assignments to be submitted to the participating universities.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy, you should print the course description from the website and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org .

Effective Teaching in Diverse Classrooms  (available Fall 2007). An intense classroom-focused, research-based program that helps teachers transform their classrooms to address the needs of a diverse student population. Great for school-based or district cohorts of colleagues.

Source:  NEA Academy Content and Curriculum Team

Course Review:  The Quality Review Board recommends this course.  Learn more.

Content Focus:  Classroom management

Grade Level/Job Focus:  K-12 all content areas teachers & instructional paraeducators

Cost:  Free to NEA members.  Others may access this course through arrangement and request from local or state affiliate. 

Course Description: The I Can Do It! Program demonstrates effective classroom management skills through topics such as: Identification and demonstration of the elements for effective classroom management; different communication styles and how they relate to student/teacher/parent communication; suggested interventions for difficult behaviors encountered in the classroom; and tips that help create a smoothly flowing classroom. The course is designed for beginning teachers and paraprofessionals, but can be useful as a review for veteran teachers.

Highlights: The I Can Do It! Program is based on a workshop originally developed by the California Teachers Association.  The program features classroom videos, advice and personal stories from experienced mentor teachers, and a simulated parent conference.  The most effective way to participate in this program is with a cohort of new and veteran teachers in your school or district, however it is also suitable for use by an individual new teacher.

Limitations:  Although there are downloadable forms and suggested activities, there are limited opportunities for reflection on the success of the strategies suggested.  Collaboration with colleagues in developing a successful classroom management system is suggested but not built into the program.

Run Time:  Four hours of program run time, with supplemental reading and suggestions for classroom activities that require 10-12 hours to implement.
 
Credit Availability: Graduate Credits are not available at this time.  If you wish to receive continuing education credits for any of the courses on the NEA Academy website, you should print the course description from the Web site and submit it to your state and/or local office to get approval for the course.  If you need additional information beyond what is listed in the description, contact Linda James at LJames@nea.org.