Program Overview

Read through the information below carefully before enrolling. For further information, please consult the FAQ linked at the top of this page.

NOTE: This is a program within our Catalog. As such, it is a combination of smaller, individual courses. Given that these courses can be completed independently of each other, all program-specific information such as graduate credit is below.

Program Description

Discover the transformative power of backward design in this comprehensive online program that combines three essential courses: Backward Design Principles, Lesson Planning: Outcomes & Assessments, and Lesson Planning: Activities & Framing. This immersive learning experience is designed for educators, instructional designers, and educational leaders seeking to create effective, engaging, and impactful learning experiences across various educational contexts.

In the first course, participants will dive deep into the research-backed principles of backward design, learning how to apply this powerful framework to their own practice through scenario-based e-learning activities, expert insights, and flexible assignments. Whether working in K-12 schools, higher education, or professional training settings, participants will gain the knowledge and skills needed to implement backward design successfully.

The second course focuses on the intricacies of designing and understanding educational outcomes, objectives, and success criteria, as well as creating aligned assessments. Participants will explore the importance of context, scope, and student-friendly language in setting objectives, and learn how to ensure accuracy and precision in both goal-setting and evaluation. Through item analysis and other key concepts, educators will develop a robust framework for meeting and exceeding educational standards.

In the final course, participants will delve into the world of classroom activities and lesson plan framing. Applicable to any subject, age group, or learning context, this course covers Visible Learning research, technology integration, engagement strategies, and more. Through scenario-based learning and reflection opportunities, educators will learn how to create effective, appropriate, and engaging classroom activities while mastering the art of clear and compelling lesson plan framing.

Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to apply their learning to their own educational settings, with optional sections on supporting backward design across entire education systems and contributing to school-wide initiatives around assessment and outcomes. By the end of this comprehensive training, participants will be well-equipped to enhance their instructional practices, create truly effective learning experiences, and positively impact student learning outcomes.

Program Contents

• Backward Design Principles
• Lesson Planning: Outcomes & Assessments
• Lesson Planning: Activities & Framing

Estimated Time: 14-16 Hours (Two Days)

This self-paced course typically requires 14-16 hours to complete, though the actual time may vary based on individual factors.

Access and Credentials

Click on "enroll now" to begin enrolling in the Course listing. After registering, click on “Canvas” at the top of the page to access your course in Canvas.

Free for Members

This course is a TIE Member course. It is free for educators from TIE Member schools with a code. If you do not know your code, please use the link at the top of this page to reach out and request it. 

Bulk Enrollment

Administrators, PLC leaders, and others can enroll their whole team; there's an option for bulk enrollment in the Catalog for registering multiple members. You first need to reserve and purchase multiple enrollments. After that, you can invite individuals to your purchased seats.

Team Discount

If registering 20 or more individuals for a team or district, reach out to BLicht@bhssc.org to arrange for special pricing before purchasing.

Credentials: 15 CECH or 1 Graduate Credit

After completing this course, you can obtain 15 CECH or 1 graduate credit. Graduate credit costs an additional small charge to the university for both members and non-members. CECH/CEUs are free of charge and can be obtained instantly upon completing all requirements. More information can be found in the FAQ at the top of this page.

Certificate of Completion

All participants who complete the program are automatically awarded a certificate of completion. This does not affect CECH/CEUs or graduate credit. These certificates of completion may be used by districts, schools, and organizations as proof of completion for required training. These certificates may also be displayed on LinkedIn or a personal portfolio. To download a certificate for this course, follow the steps from the Canvas Community.

CECH/CEU Certificate

You cannot obtain continuing education contact hours (CECH) or continuing education units (CEU) AND graduate/college credit for the same time/experience. As not all participants will seek a CECH/CEU certificate, these are not set by default for each course within this program. Instructions on obtaining CECH/CEU certificates are available within each course in this program. 

CECH/CEU vs Credit?

Credit is the only option not automatically awarded within our system. While both completion certificates and CECH/CEU certificates can be obtained by the participant without any assistance, credit requires a few additional steps. Credit WILL NOT appear within your Catalog account. As such, it is recommended that you seek CECH/CEU certificates in place of graduate credit if you need it soon. Additionally, CECH/CEU certificates are free while graduate credit may require an additional payment to the university.

Graduate/College Credit

Graduate credit is offered for select professional development courses or events and can be requested within six (6) months of completion. To pursue graduate credit, you will need to enroll in the corresponding listing at the University of Sioux Falls, our partner entity. As noted in the description for this course when enrolling, graduate credit does require an additional fee. This fee is paid online when registering for the offering. You can see our Catalog of offerings at USF through the link below:

https://reach.usiouxfalls.edu/modules/shop/index.html?action=courseBrowse&CatalogID=2 

Please register for the corresponding university listing first and then reach out to your instructor. Let your instructor know that you have completed the course, have registered for the listing at a university, and when you need the credit. After your instructor lets you know that your score has been recorded, it will appear on your transcript within 72 hours. At that point, please request a copy of your transcript. More information on USF transcripts:

https://www.usiouxfalls.edu/offices/registrar/request-transcript