Open Education 2014

The Teaching Open Online Learning (TOOL) program launched in early 2014 as an orientation tool for Georgia Virtual Learning (GaVL) teachers. However, the resource is open to all teachers, school districts, and institutions of higher learning. In the badge driven environment, participants engage in five major areas of online learning: Participate, Navigate, Communicate, Create, and Evaluate.

Along with GaVL, TOOL is being used in teacher prep programs within Georgia along with school districts using the program to train teachers in blended and online learning concepts. Many participants are opting to complete the program just for personal enrichment.

The badging concept provides two opportunities to users. A registered model allows participants to self award badges upon the completion of certain tasks. The badges can be award for each area individually, or for the TOOL program as a whole. A verified option is also available where the participants work is reviewed by a trained, experience, online teacher to assure that the badge components are completed to a satisfactory degree.

While still in its infancy, GaVL's TOOL enrollment grows on a monthly basis. In April and May, the verified program had to be capped at 50 participants and additional verified opportunities had to be provided.

Come by the session and see the latest data on how TOOL is effecting the online teacher training model and how it may be beneficial to your organization.

website: https://www.openteachertraining.org/