Distance Learning

U California, Irvine Extension Debuts Online Courses in Student-Centered Learning

• By Joshua Bolkan
• 06/25/15

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) Extension is offering two new online courses designed to help teachers develop their skills in cognitive and student-centered learning.

The courses, "Building Cognitive Curriculum" and "Motivation and Responsibility in the Student-Centered Classroom," are currently open for registration and will run July 6-September 13.

Both courses are requirements for a larger program, "Student-Centered Learning Specialized Studies," launching in the fall and designed to offer educators insight into classroom practices that can be implemented immediately.

In "Building Cognitive Curriculum," teachers will learn to analyze achievement data, provide feedback designed to encourage personal growth and identify academic options for improved student success.

"Further, participants will be able to build cognitive curriculum through content and create a safe environment for students to take positive academic risks," according to a news release. "The course is led by Beth Andrews, coordinator of gifted programs for the Irvine Unified School District, who has more than thirty years of experience working with gifted learners, educators and administrators. Andrews' expertise includes differentiated curriculum and instruction, technology in education and engaging students."

"Motivation and Responsibility in the Student-Centered Classroom" is designed to help teachers develop a classroom approach that is active and reflexive. Teachers will learn to identify student interests and needs and how to encourage motivation, curiosity, self-reliance and responsibility.

"The course will cover topics such as critical thinking, creative thinking, project-based learning and community engagement," according to information released by UCI Extension. "Course instructor Kate Edwards, an independent educational consultant and former program director at UCLA, has experience developing credential programs and taught teacher preparation courses for UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies."

"Educators today are required to provide students with creative, highly motivational classroom settings coupled with building cognitive curriculum that empowers students," said Angela Jeantet, director of education and business programs at UC Irvine Extension, in a prepared statement. "These courses are designed to arm educators with the tools they need to prepare today's students with the skills and knowledge necessary for self-learning and beyond."