Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Presenters: Trina Gabriel Alice Jagnandan The University of North Carolina at Greensboro “I am looking forward to working with iSchool. I am impressed with its framework and virtual infrastructure. I have worked with other online schools in the past, but I think iSchool will be my preference.” Alfreda Smith, iSchool Facilitator Southeast Halifax High School, NC

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training What is iSchool?

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Why Fast-track? Timing: Legislature: Funding approved March 2007 Recruitment: March - August Schools: Semester began September 4, 2007

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Training Goals Create a core group for the iSchool program Communicate the facilitator role Provide Blackboard orientation Demonstrate the high quality of iSchool courses Create an open, collaborative forum Do so at minimal cost

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Challenges Lack of technology skills Limited experience with distance learning Schools’ technology issues Getting ‘buy-in’ from facilitators Class size and continuous enrollment TICKING CLOCK

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training 100% online, self-paced with instructor presence Self-contained Contains quiz, short essay, and final course evaluation Guest access, with high school /personal address Mini-version of an academic iSchool course 20 contact hours, designed to be completed in a week Qualifies for CEU credits Blackboard as portal to external content link UNCG iSchool Facilitator Training

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Blackboard -- Resource Information

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training

Outstanding Results Approximately 400 facilitators trained to date Created a Web 2.0 environment On-demand training Data-Collection

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Lessons Learned Know your audience Assess learning outcomes “Don’t major in the minor” Encourage but don’t mandate Show appreciation

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Questions?

Using Technology for Fast-Track Training Thank You! Trina Gabriel: Alice Jagnandan: