Our Microcredentials
We proudly offer three series of innovative microcredentials designed to empower K-12 educators in computer science (CS) and artificial intelligence (AI) education. These programs support both future and experienced teachers in integrating cutting-edge CS and AI concepts into their classrooms, fostering inclusive and dynamic learning environments.
Each microcredential series includes a sequence of 3 or 4 self-paced, online microcredentials. At the end of each microcredential, teachers earn a Credly badge of completion.
CS Introduction for Pre-Service Teachers
This microcredential will introduce you to the basic concepts of analysis, decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms. You will experience how these concepts can be applied to any discipline and any grade level. Through creative assignments like the CS Autobiography you will be encouraged to reflect on your own experiences and view to help guide your further study.
Dip your toes into coding by creating a simple program in a block-based beginner’s environment of your choice. Learn about programming as well as debugging (fixing programs) without a computer through “unplugged” lessons. Explore lesson plans and resources to prepare you to bring Computer Science (CS) and Computational Thinking (CT) to your future or current classroom.
The next cohort for this microcredential will begin in November 2024. Check back soon for more information!
Universal Design for Learning in CS Education Microcredential
This microcredential will build awareness of the need to consider all learners – including students with disabilities – in the Computer Science (CS) education space and provide an introduction to best practices for creating a more inclusive and accessible CS classroom. This course will introduce some important teaching concepts, namely Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and High Leverage Practices (HLPs). The combination of the UDL framework and HLPs in lesson design and delivery provides opportunities and access for all learners, not just those with disabilities. Additionally, you will learn how to evaluate the accessibility of materials and technologies in your classroom to provide equal access to all learners. This course will allow you to reflect on your own practice in terms of making learning accessible to all, by exploring the mindset of design for the average learner. We believe that all students should have access to CS and Computational Thinking (CT), and these frameworks and practices are the place to start to provide meaningful experiences for all learners.
Additional courses in this series are underway and will be available soon!
AI in K-12 Teaching and Learning Microcredential
Our AI Education initiative offers a series of four microcredentials that were co-designed with teachers (from public, private, and charter schools), instructional designers, and coaches to equip educators with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate AI into K-12 education effectively. Our microcredentials include:
- Introduction to AI in K-12 Education
- Integrating AI in and for K-12 Education
- AI For The Educator
- AI+CS K-12 Integration
Participants will explore methods for embedding AI and CS, targeting the AI4K12 Five Big Ideas in AI Progressions across all grade bands. The course includes example lesson plans, assessment opportunities, and hands-on practice in lesson plan creation and implementation. By the end of the course, teachers will feel confident not only in teaching AI concepts but also in engaging their students in meaningful discussions and projects related to AI.
Additional courses in this series are underway and will be available soon!
FAQs
What are these microcredential series?
These online asynchronous microcredentials are designed for preservice and inservice K-12 teachers. They require about 20 hours of self-paced work. While there will be multiple microcredentials in a series, you are not required to take them all and can choose any order, depending on your interests and needs.
When are these microcredentials offered?
The courses will be open for 6-8 weeks where you can work at your own pace. Finish in a day, or take the full term, it is totally what works best for you.
What else do I need to know before I start?
The microcredentials are online, asynchronous learning experiences. They are designed to be completed in modules giving them a flexible flow. Our aim is that the skills and lessons from each microcredential will be applied to your classes, now and in the future.
