TIMTSPF-140 TIM Observer Training (Self-Paced, Facilitated)

About this course

This course is designed to prepare teachers and instructional leaders to conduct classroom observations using the Technology Integration Matrix Observation Tool (TIM-O). Participants in this course will use their organization’s observation plan and protocol. The modules will provide an overview of the TIM-O and guided practice using the tool. Topics include introduction to the TIM and TIM-O, guidance and mentoring toward consistent, unbiased application of the TIM-O, techniques for conducting efficient and effective observations, and strategies for observing both solid and borderline examples.

 

What will I learn in this course?

Module 1: What is the TIM-O? 

The TIM-O is a classroom observation tool that guides the observer through the process of looking at a lesson through the lens of the Technology Integration Matrix (TIM). This week, participants will review the TIM, learn about the TIM-O, access the tools, and explore the protocol their institution will use to implement the TIM-O.

Module 2: How Do Experts Use the TIM-O?

In order to feel comfortable using the TIM-O in a real classroom, it is important that observers see and experience many different examples that span the full spectrum of technology use and classroom practice. During week two, participants will review benchmark observation videos and examples with expert support and practice their understanding of what to look for while observing.

Module 3: How Do I Use the TIM-O to Conduct Observations?

After seeing many benchmark examples, it is time for participants to jump in and practice their own observation skills. In week three, participants will walk through solid examples with expert guidance and practice using the TIM-O to observe classrooms in the provided video examples.

Module 4: How Do I Effectively Use Results from the TIM-O?

Now that participants have seen numerous example lessons and practiced their own observations using the TIM-O, it is time to stretch to address some examples where the TIM level is unclear. During this final week, participants will gain a better understanding of how bias and self-monitoring impact the observation process, use the TIM-O to observe additional lessons, and explore how to interpret and use TIM-O results.

Why choose iTeach online courses?

  • Courses are delivered completely online, self-paced, and facilitated by an expert in the field.
  • Receive individualized feedback from your instructor.
  • Courses are equivalent to twenty professional development contact hours.
  • Work through each module at your own pace.
  • Register on an open-enrollment basis. No application or prerequisites required.
  • Receive a course completion certificate and digital badge after successfully completing the course. Use your badge to showcase your expertise and skill set on social media profiles, your email signature block, or electronic copies of a résumé.
  • All iTeach courses are designed to help educators and administrators more successfully integrate technology into teaching and learning.

FORMAT: Self-Paced, facilitated online course. Work each module at your own pace but still receive individualized feedback from an expert facillitator.

COST: $120. Discounts for groups of 10 or more.

SCHEDULE: This course is completely self-paced and registration is open continuously. You will have 6 weeks to complete the course once registered.

 Email TIM@fcit.us for group scheduling, volume discounts, or other questions.

View the iTeach catalog for additional courses.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How have the courses changed?
The flow of the courses is the primary change. As stated above, course content has minor updates, but is now organized into self-paced modules, giving you more flexibility. Once you complete a module, the next module unlocks automatically. If you have a block of time available this allows you to move through the course more quickly, if you so choose.
 
2. If I have already taken these courses should I take them again? 
No. The format of the courses is the only major change. While we are always updating the courses based on student feedback and TIM Tools updates, the core content of the courses have not changed. 
 
3. How long will I have to finish a course?
You will have 6 weeks to complete a course. This schedule allows for greater flexibility over our previous 4-week format. You can now choose when to work on the course over the 6-week period without being constrained to a weekly schedule. 

4. Will there be any interaction?
There will be interaction with the instructor, but not other classmates, as the course is self-paced. The instructor will be grading and providing feedback on assignments, and will be available to answer any questions you have as you proceed through the course.

5. When will the other courses be offered?
We are currently working on moving the remainder of the the TIMT courses into this new self-paced format. Be on the lookout for future emails from us announcing additional courses.

6. Can I still have a custom instance of a course with group interaction for my team?
Yes. If you have at least 5 participants in your group, we can create a course instance for your team that will include group discussion components as well as interaction with the instructor. Please email TIM@fcit.us for more information. 

7. Why are you making these changes?
We are making this format change to accommodate participants’ busy schedules and to offer access to courses more frequently throughout the year. There has also been an increase in enrollment from students around the world, and the need for greater timing flexibility.
 
8. How soon can I start?
You can register now for the self-paced versions of TIMT-140 and TIMT-150. As soon as your registration is complete you will be able to create a Canvas account (if you don’t already have one) and begin immediately. 
 
9. How much time of a time commitment is required for courses in the new format?
We estimate approximately 5 hours per module, with most courses containing 4 modules.