Full course description
Program summary:
The Instructor Training Certificate Program provides learners with a broad understanding of instructor training, particularly as it applies to park and public land agencies and their need to train adults. While the practice of adult instruction has evolved over recent decades, the fundamental principles covered in this certificate remain highly relevant and are the foundation upon which future training techniques will be built. This program will present a comprehensive overview of the underlying philosophies and theories of adult education, as well as provide practical application techniques for instructors.
Program objectives:
After completing this certificate program, learners should be able to:
- Explain why professionally designed and delivered training for employees of Parks and Public Lands Agencies is necessary and valuable.
- Construct lesson plans using learning objectives.
- Develop a personal philosophy about adult education integrating evidence from adult education philosophies.
- Identify major factors that have an impact on the learning processes of the adult learners.
- Identify delivery methods and their applicability in learning contexts.
- Create a safe learning environment that emphasizes ethics and diversity.
- Develop a training evaluation plan using data gathered from training assessments.
Recommended background:
This certificate program will be most beneficial for professionals in parks and public lands agencies or non-profit organizations who desire to advance their training skills.
Program topics:
- Course 1: Introduction to the Instructor Training Program
- Course 2: Philosophical Foundations of Adult Learning
- Course 3: Characteristics of Adult Learning
- Course 4: Goals and Objectives
- Course 5: Delivery Methods
- Course 6: Classroom Management
- Course 7: Communication
- Course 8: Assessment and Evaluation
The certificate program includes the following elements:
- Eight self-paced, self-study e-courses
- Independent study assignments, which allow you to apply what you have learned in the courses and are reviewed by course instructors, with substantive feedback provided
- Informational text
- Interactive activities
- "Learn More" opportunities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Informal knowledge checks
- Final assessments
These courses are self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the courses as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing the content and activities in each course module, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of all course module quizzes and assignments, you will be awarded a program certificate of completion.
Creators:
This certificate program was designed and developed by the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.