The Teaching Online Program (TOP) has a new specialized module on teaching in the online synchronous environment. We are happy to announce that this module is now available for instructor enrollment.

The Teaching Online Program is a series of fully asynchronous courses. Each level consists of four modules: Canvas, Multimedia Tools and Techniques, Design and Development, and Best Practices in Teaching Online. In responding to instructor feedback and Penn State’s designation of several new modes of teaching online, we have added a module in level 1 related to teaching in the online synchronous environment. The goal will be to continue to add modules for online synchronous teaching to levels 2 and 3 in the future.

Participants are not required to complete all of the modules in level 1 in order to complete the newest online synchronous module. If an instructor would like to jump into the Teaching Online Program and complete only this module within the program, they are encouraged to do so. Participants can earn a specific badge for completion of the online synchronous module.

The Online Synchronous Level 1 module focuses primarily on planning an online synchronous course meeting. We provide ideas for how to start class, how to engage students using Zoom tools and breakout rooms, and how to close the class session. The module asks participants to submit a plan for a synchronous class session that incorporates the techniques suggested in the module or a synthesis of techniques instructors already use.

For more information about each level and to self-enroll, please visit: https://commonwealthteaching.psu.edu/psu-resource/teaching-online-program/.