How are the 10 weeks structured?
You have access to all modules of the course from Day 1, through 4 weeks after your final grade is posted online in your Teacher Account. By midnight Pacific every Tuesday, you're asked to read a few articles, watch some 3-4 minute videos, submit an assignment, write an original post in the discussion forum, and reply to forum posts from 3 other teachers. Feedback on your assignments and marks for the discussion forum and assignments are generally posted no later than 7 days following the deadline. A summative portfolio is comprised of all the assignments you've submitted and is due in week 10.
Do I have to be online at a certain time?
We don't have any time-specific commitments in our courses. You're free to do the work at a time and place that's convenient for you. However, the deadline for each week's work - assignments and discussion forum posts - is midnight Pacific every Tuesday.
How much time do I need to commit each week?
The amount of time you spend depends in part on your experience as a teacher, your comfort with online learning, and the number of hours you choose to invest in completing coursework. Participants have shared with us that they spend, on average, six or more hours each week.
Can I split up the online course by doing one or more modules in one session and finishing the rest in a later one?
You must complete all 10 weeks with your classmates because it would be disruptive for the other teachers in your cohort if you leave or join mid-way through. If you need to withdraw, we work with you to determine the best solution. Depending on when the withdrawal is initiated, a partial refund may be issued. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
How am I assessed?
Our professional facilitators are master piano teachers, and they work hard to ensure you have a meaningful learning experience. Beginning on Day 1, you can view the marking rubrics for every assignment and for discussion forum posts. Each week your facilitator provides personal feedback on your assignment and assigns two grades: one for your assignment and one for discussion forum participation. Your summative portfolio, submitted in week 10, includes every assignment and is marked for completeness.