Online Learning Modules Will Play a Big Role in Common Core Implementation Across the U.S.

More than 50,000 math, science and English teachers will benefit from web-based training modules in the 2014-2015 school year

DALLAS, Aug. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Math and Science Initiative's (NMSI) first ever web-based training modules are being developed to reach more than 50,000 teachers from 26 states. Thanks in part to a $248,760 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, NMSI will design online training modules for teachers grades 3-11 in the critical subjects of math, science and English Language Arts to expand their understanding of the instructional rigor required by the implementation of Common Core State Standards (CCSS).

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"Our goal is to provide NMSI-trained teachers with ongoing virtual training and support so they not only understand the standards, but can deeply embed them in their instructional practice," said NMSI CEO Sara Martinez Tucker. "We will help build outstanding teacher leaders nationwide."

Eight online modules, developed by the NMSI instructional design team, will enhance NMSI's four-day teacher training summer institutes by creating a blended learning model for training to support teacher learning throughout the school year. The online modules will provide teachers with ongoing support to implement the strategies needed to create a generation of college and career ready students.

The grant will help NMSI provide teachers with access to online activities, videos, online collaboration and other content via tablet, computer or smartphone. This supplemental training will allow teachers the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of effective instructional practice through sharing strategies and best practices with other NMSI math, science and English teachers across the country.

The first video from this partnership on Conceptual Understanding has been released. In addition, 100 teachers who have completed the full NMSI training program will be selected to join NMSI's 500 member Trainer Cadre and acquire the additional skills necessary to serve as mentors within their states.

About National Math and Science Initiative:  NMSI, a non-profit organization, was launched in 2007 by top leaders in business, education and science to transform education in the United States. NMSI has received national recognition for training K-12 teachers and improving student performance through the rapid expansion of these highly successful programs: NMSI's Comprehensive AP program, NMSI Teacher Training program, and UT Austin's UTeach program.  Inaugural funding for NMSI was provided by the Exxon Mobil Corporation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. For more information, visit www.nms.org.

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Media Contact:  Mary Ortiz, 214-346-1245, [email protected]­­­­

SOURCE National Math and Science Initiative