TLC University Establishes Online Support for Educators
With a set of broad-based initiatives and alliances, The Learning Company has launched The Learning Company University (TLCU). At multiple Web sites, TLCU will provide professional development, grants to pre-service colleges and universities, educator recognition and a virtual community of educators online.
- Teacher Universe (www.teacheruniverse.com) will develop four teaching modules that will include six hours of instructor-led training and four hours of Internet-based training addressing topics such as Assessing and Managing Student Achievement, Interactive Writing Tools in the Elementary Classroom, Information Literacy in an Information Society and Enhancing Learning with Multimedia Presentation and Creativity Tools.
- ISTE (www.iste.org) will support this training by providing summaries of research on the most effective ways to use technology for each of the topics in the four modules.
- ITC Learning (www.itclearning.com) will provide CD-ROM titles that The Learning Company will offer to educators seeking basic technology training.
TLCU will establish software preview centers at various sites that emphasize pre-service training in educational
technology for teachers who may have limited access to the latest educational software. Additionally, grants of services are also planned and on-site support and training will be made available in the critical period after a product has been adopted into the curriculum.
Throughout the year TLCU will sponsor efforts to recognize and reward educators and educational institutions that are using technology to make a difference in the classroom. TLCU will identify and support the efforts of "Distinguished Educators" who are sharing their experiences in technology integration and presenting at trade shows and conventions across the country. Through TLCU's Internet-based forum these educators and technology professionals will reach another audience in the educational community. The Learning Company, Novato, CA, (415) 382-4400, www.learningcompanyschool.com.
This article originally appeared in the 10/01/1999 issue of THE Journal.