Educators across the state have taken advantage of online courses, and for the first time, all of the AEAs are putting their online courses in one place - AEA PD Online. They provide a 21st century learning experience, embedded with digital resources and self-directed activity, mixed with digital collaboration with classmates. And they save on the cost of gas!
New in 2011-2012
A portion of the content available through AEA PD online are individual training modules on a variety of topics. These training modules are completed independently by the participant, and there is usually some type of certificate indicating completion of the module.
Due to the uncertainty of next year’s education funding and the cost of upkeep and development of the system, AEAs are no longer able to provide the system at no cost. In order to keep progress moving forward, beginning July 1, 2011, there will be a $25 charge for educators to complete the Mandatory Reporter training. We regret that this fee will be incurred, but are pleased to announce that it will come with value-added functionality in AEA PD Online for districts compared to the current system. Mandatory Reporter training is the only training module with a fee for Heartland area schools at this time. Here is a quick snapshot of what you will have in 2011-12:
District Administrative Access – For the first time, districts will have the ability to manage their own information on the system, allowing for more personalized professional development. This includes:
- View and print reports on training completion (either on an individual basis or on a district-wide “compliance report” basis).
- Manage district employee passwords
- Schedule their own training deadlines for employees.
- Set up an automated notification system for employees to complete trainings.
- Set up their own district trainings – districts can upload a .pdf (such as a staff handbook or an acceptable use policy) for employees to read and agree to.
Growing Content – AEA PD Online offers 17 dynamic training opportunities for educators with plans to add 5-10 new trainings throughout each year. This will include trainings in a diversity of areas:
- Human Resources (such as harassment in the workplace, food safety, diversity awareness)
- Professional Development (such as Iowa Core, content-specific training, IDM, PBIS)
- Emergency Planning (such as crisis response, school intruders)
- Understanding of Legal Requirements (such as FERPA, special education)
- Technology (such as copyright infringement, online safety, appropriate email use)
- Other Area-Specific Trainings (such as bus behavior, food preparation, playground supervision, conflict management)
