News

A Hybrid Way to Learn

Until now, PAEA has focused almost solely on in-person training and events, like our Pando™ workshops and annual Education Forum. While these events are still a priority for PAEA, and we certainly recognize the importance of face-to-face interaction and discussion, there is also a need for greater accessibility. Many of our members don’t have the means or the time to travel to in-person events, but they do still have a desire to grow in their professional role.

Enter PAEA’s new hybrid model of continued learning, which supplements in-person offerings with online content — our answer to the accessibility problem.

Starting today, educators at PAEA member programs can access the very first module in our brand-new learning management system (LMS) for free. This release marks the beginning of an exciting host of possibilities for developing and delivering content to our members.

Screen Shot 2016-12-20 at 10.53.25 AM Screen Shot 2016-12-20 at 10.54.04 AMThe first module, Item Writing for Beginners, will help educators understand the basics of creating high-quality test questions — a core competency in academia.

This first module, and many of the ones to come, features narrated slides covering pertinent information followed by a short quiz on what you’ve learned. You can complete the modules at your own pace, saving and coming back to them if you have to step away. Users also can return at any time to modules they have completed to refresh their memory.

Throughout 2017 and beyond, the LMS will be updated with new modules, on topics to be determined. “Future module topics will be determined in an evidence-driven manner and in a way that best meets the most pressing needs of PA educators,” said Zach Britt, PAEA’s senior director of education strategy.

To access the LMS:

  • Visit the website and click “forgot password.”
  • On the Password Recovery screen, enter your professional email address that is on file with PAEA.
  • Follow the link sent to your email to create your new password, and start learning!

We’d also like to hear your thoughts on the first module. While you’re logged in, you will see an icon in the top right corner that says “feedback” — clicking this link will allow you to submit your ideas and feedback to the course administrator.

We hope you enjoy the first LMS installment. Keep your eyes peeled in 2017 for even more content to help you become the best PA educator you can be.