Teaching in the Digital Classroom (or TDC) is a free professional development course series for educators interested in developing or improving online teaching skills. The TDC series is online, asynchronous, and self-paced.
TDC: Thriving in the Digital Age
This course is designed for new and experienced educators who are looking to enhance their skills for teaching in the digital age.
The course covers a range of topics related to teaching and learning in a digital classroom, including identifying relevant technologies and tools, incorporating effective online instructional strategies, and creating student assessments.
Throughout the course, learners will develop skills to create positive and inclusive online learning environments that promote 21st century skills such as digital literacy, collaboration, and communication.
This self-paced course is suitable for all educators who are interested in expanding their knowledge and skills in online teaching and learning.
TDC: Mastering the Art of Online Instruction
This course is designed for educators experienced with online instruction who are looking to delve into more complex aspects of the specialty.
Participants will explore the role of the educator in a digital setting, and will focus on the pedagogical considerations necessary for successful online teaching, such as generative AI, digital literacy, mastery learning, digital citizenship, and gamification.
Additionally, the course will examine the unique challenges and opportunities presented by online teaching and will provide participants with the tools and strategies to respond.
This course will also explore artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) and how these new technologies can be used in a digital classroom.
Why we created the TDC
For more than two decades, UC Scout has created high-quality courses and curricula for California’s teachers and students. Through UC Scout’s Plus plan, we provide free, standards-aligned instructional resources for California’s public schools and teachers.
When the pandemic hit and classes moved online, the University of California recognized the need for deeper digital training. This effort became the TDC course series, created to meet the need for more quality training to enhance online teaching skills for the 21st century.
To support our Plus teachers, and all teachers who may have minimal access to professional training focused on online teaching, UC Scout is proud to offer this course series free of charge. Although recommended, completing the series is not a requirement for teaching a Plus course.
How much do the TDC courses cost and is enrollment rolling?
All Teaching in the Digital Classroom courses are 100% free of charge and you can register at any time!
Will the TDC count for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or college credit?
Not at this time since there are no graded assignments. However, a completion badge and certificate will be issued upon completion of each course, which can be shared with your school, district, or employer.
How long will the TDC courses take to complete?
You set your own pace so it will depend, but each course should take approximately 15 hours to complete if you take it from start to finish.
Are there prerequisites for these courses?
No, there are no specific prerequisites for the introductory course. It is suitable for teachers in training, professionals looking to transition into an educator/teacher role, or experienced teachers who are new to (or in need of a refresher on) the digital classroom and online learning environment.
The advanced course also has no prerequisites, but it does assume that participants have some prior knowledge and experience in online teaching. We recommend that participants complete the first course before continuing to the second course unless they have that experience.
What technology or software do I need to take these courses?
You do not need any specific technology or software to access this course; a computer or mobile device with high-speed internet will allow you to access all course materials through the Canvas LMS.
Support for Plus Teachers
Our Academic Support Expert, Angela Raines, is here to provide direct support for Plus teachers so that you can make the most of your UC Scout course. For one-on-one support, schedule an appointment with Angela, Academic Support Expert.
Be sure to register for a monthly Plus Teacher Training Webinar to learn how to utilize the features in the online classroom platform, Canvas.
If you would like to request a Plus teacher training customized for your school, please email us at ucscoutoutreach@ucsc.edu.