FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
Engage is an independent learning program, 24/7. With online learning, the learning takes place where you want, when you want, and as much as you want. You can work anywhere you have Internet access. You can learn just a little (Define), a little more (Discover), or a lot (Develop). You can earn license renewal points or you can choose to learn for your own needs and purposes. **
 * How does this program work?

In order to reach our digital natives (today's students), teachers need to better understand Web 2.0 tools as part of the instructional environment. Web 2.0 tools offer the opportunity to engage students with an interactive medium, allowing learners to connect, collaborate and contribute.
 * Why do this?

Who can participate in the program? Can I get credit for this course? Anyone who can access this wiki may use it for online learning. Only Frederick County Public Schools (VA) employees can receive course credit. You could use this online learning for your own personal growth with no credit, if you like. You may get credit for the course by meeting all criteria under the develop sections for each topic. Credit will most likely be in the form of license renewal points but could serve as part of your six hours beyond contract with prior approval from your building administrator. **

Each topic will require from 1-3 hours which will vary with the activities and individual participants. A minimum of 6 hours must be completed to receive license renewal points. Generally, this means 3 hours each on two topics. A maximum of 30 hours can be awarded per participant.
 * How much time will each topic require?

What do I need to participate? You will need a high-speed Internet connection, time outside your normal work day, a desire to learn about Web 2.0 tools, and a willingnees to apply what you have learned to your instructional strategies and methods. You also need to be willing to share your ideas and knowledge with your peers.

How long do I have to complete the program? If you do not plan to receive credit, you have no time constraints. If you are a Frederick County (VA) Public Schools employee, after registering through My PDC, you will be given the timeframe for course completion. Since the first tier of license renewal points requires 6 hours a 6 week time line is provided. If more points are desired, the time will be extended accordingly. Remenber, you can start at any time.

How will my progress be monitored? You can ask for help at any time at any level, once you register for course credit then a course facilitator will be assigned to monitor your progress. The course facilitaor will keep up with your level of activity, answer questions, provide support and evaluate the artifact you developed along the way.

Do I have to complete all the topics? No, you will choose the topics you want to cover. For course credit, you will have choices as to topics that must be covered to receive points/hours. As an example: 6 hours must be completed to receive license renewal points, once you have completed the first six, you can move along in increments of 3 (3 hours per topic) until you reach the maximum of 30 points/hours.

Will there be any face-to-face sessions? There are no planned face-to-face sessions. All learning would take place online with help, hints, encouragement given along the way. You may contact the course facilitator(s) or your school's tech support staff for assistance as needed.

Do any of the topics require special software? It is suggested that you have a current version of your Internet browser Internet Explorer 7 is recommended, but newer versions of Firefox or Safari will be fine. You may be prompted to update Java, Flash, Adobe Reader or other plugins used for interacting on the web. Direct questions to the course facilitator. Any topics that require special software will highlight the need for the software on the topic's main page. Any software you would need to install at home will have a link provided on the topic page. If you are working at school, your school's IT staff can assist you. **