Teaching in the Digital Classroom (TDC) is a free professional development series for educators interested in developing or improving their online teaching skills.

The TDC series is online, asynchronous and self-paced.



Ready to get started?

Join the TDC mailing list to be among the first notified when courses go live in June 2024.

This course is designed for new and experienced educators who are looking to enhance their skills for teaching in the digital age. 

Topics

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 educators at all levels who are interested in expanding their knowledge and skills in online teaching and learning.

This course is designed for educators experienced with online instruction who are looking to delve into more complex aspects of teaching in the digital classroom.

Topics

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 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 necessary to meet those challenges and take advantage of those opportunities. This course will also explore artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) and how these new technologies can be used in a digital classroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do the TDC courses cost?

Both courses are available 100% free of charge.

Will the TDC count for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or college credit?

Not at this time. However, a completion badge and certificate will be provided upon completion of each course which may be provided to your school, district, or employer.

How long will the TDC courses take to complete?

Each course should take approximately 15 hours to complete.

Why should I take a TDC course?

These courses are for any teacher who wants to learn more about teaching online. Whether you are a novice or an experienced teacher, these courses will help you advance your online teaching skills.

Are there any 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 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.

Is there a deadline for enrolling in the courses?

No - you can enroll/register for either course anytime, just like our Plus program!

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/desktop, tablet, or mobile device with high-speed internet will allow you to access all course materials.

Is there a community or networking component to these courses?

TDC participants can also join our Facebook group, Teachers in the Digital Classroom. This is a community for teachers who are enrolled in UC Scout’s Teaching in the Digital Classroom (TDC) series. In this group, teachers can connect with fellow online educators, share resources, and join open discussions on navigating the 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 have provided free, standards-aligned instructional resources for California’s public schools and teachers. 

To support our Plus teachers, and all teachers who may have minimal access to professional training resources focused on online teaching practices, UC Scout was tasked by the University of California Office of the President to develop resources to empower teachers working in digital classrooms everywhere. That project became the TDC series, created to meet the need for more quality professional development training to enhance online teaching skills for the 21st century.


Contact Us
If you want to get in touch with the TDC group, email us at TDC@ucsc.edu.

About UC Scout

UC Scout is a University of California Student Academic Preparation and Educational Partnerships (SAPEP) program that develops and delivers A-G approved online classes and curricula to students around the globe. UC Scout is hosted at UC Santa Cruz and is closely aligned with UCSC’s core values and principles of community. 

UC Scout course materials are designed to inspire lifelong curiosity and prepare pupils of all backgrounds and education levels for an increasingly technological world where training and job skills are mobile, asynchronous, and self-directed.

To learn more about UC Scout’s resources and curriculum, email us at ucscoutoutreach@ucsc.edu.