Online Course - Frequently Asked Questions

Credits*

Q: How many credits can I get for taking this course?

A: All participants who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion documenting 36 professional development hours. In addition, three (3) continuing education units OR three (3) graduate level credits can be obtained for an additional fee upon completion. For more information about credits, click on pricing and ordering.

Time Commitment

Q: How long will it take to complete this course? Are there specific beginning and ending dates?

A: It will take the average person 30 hours to complete all the course work. The course is offered three times per year- in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. Each session is open for 4 months. The course is asynchronous, so you may register at any time while a session is open and complete the course work at your convenience.

Technology Requirements

Q: What kind of technology do I need to access the course?

A: All you need to take this course is a computer with high speed internet access and the latest version of Adobe Flash Player and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Links are provided on the course site to download the most up-to-date versions of these free plug ins.  If you want to take handwritten notes, rather than typed notes, for any part of the course you will also need access to a scanner in order to scan and upload notes back into the course.

Additional Materials & Fees

Q: Are there any additional materials or fees required to take this course? 

A: There are no additional materials or fees once you register for the course. All readings, video lessons, and materials will be downloadable within the course. However, we highly recommend that you purchase Rick Smith’s book, “Conscious Classroom Management.”
Click Here to learn more about the book. The course is in part designed around the book and while all the required readings from the book will be downloadable within the course itself, these will only be short excerpts. The book in its entirety is an excellent resource for on-going support once you have completed the course.  If you wish to purchase a book, you can click on the “Pricing & Ordering” button to the left.

Management System

Q: Does the course promote a specific system of classroom management?

A: No, there is no specific management system being promoted. Rather, the strategies shared are relevant and useful on their own or for enhancing an existing system.

Emergencies and Refunds*

Q: What if i start the course, but decide it is not for me? Or what if something comes up and I am not able to complete the course on time?

A: In general, a refund can be made, minus a small processing fee, if you contact us within 72 hours of registering. If it has been more than 72 hours, contact us as soon as you can and we will work with you to try to resolve the situation. If you are unable to complete the course on time due to extenuating circumstances, call us and we will work it out.

Experience & Grade Level

Q: Is this course better for new or experienced teachers? For elementary or secondary teachers? For regular ed, special ed, or alternative ed teachers?

A: This course will be equally relevant and useful for teaches in their first year as for teachers in their 40th year. While some information will be validating, rather than new, for veteran teachers, there will be many new ideas and innovative take-away strategies for all. The course is not grade or content specific and the strategies will work for all kids of any ages, in any content areas, regardless of motivation, disability, maturity, or language barriers.

Teaching Status

Q: Do I need to be in the classroom right now to take this course?

A: No, you do not need to be in the classroom right now. However, you do need at least a few weeks of classroom teaching experience, even if it is just student teaching or long-term substitute teaching. Many of the questions in the course require you to reflect on your experiences in the classroom. Thus, you must have at least a little.

If you don’t start student teaching for another couple of months we recommend you hold off until you’ve been in the classroom 4-6 weeks before taking this course. In the meantime, we encourage you to read the book, “Conscious Classroom Management,” which will be a tremendous help as you prepare to begin your student teaching.

* If you are an employee of New York City DOE, this information does not apply to you. Please refer to the Pricing and Ordering page or contact ASPDP for accurate and detailed information about course credit and refunds.