Wilkes University and Discovery Education have teamed up to offer a new program designed to prepare educators to incorporate STEM strategies into their instructional practice and foster a culture of STEM in their school system. Called the STEM Letter of Endorsement, this program provides a pathway through which educators can grow their expertise in incorporating STEM education into every facet of teaching and learning.
The 12-credit program emphasizes the analytical, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that can aide students in any career or educational path. It provides teachers with the tools they need to plan, design and incorporate STEM strategies across all disciplines.
The program is conducted entirely online. Courses are offered in accelerated seven-week sessions, allowing completion in eight months.
Upon successful completion, Pennsylvania educators can apply to add the Pennsylvania Department of Education-approved STEM endorsement to their teaching certificate. Classes start March 7.
“Discovery Education is committed to helping educators around the world acquire the skills and expertise they need to advance their careers and improve student achievement,” said Lance Rougeux, Discovery Education vice president of learning communities. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Wilkes University and launch this new program helping educators develop a culture of STEM in their schools that we know support success both inside and outside the classroom.”
Since 2005, Discovery Education and Wilkes University have partnered to support teachers as they integrate educational technology into classroom instruction. In 2008, Discovery Education and Wilkes University launched an online master’s degree program in instructional media. The 30-credit program prepares educators to engage today’s students in learning through digital resources. Since its inception, educators from 46 states and provinces have successfully completed the program.
“STEM teaching and learning is not just limited to specific subject areas. Developing a successful STEM culture requires teachers to think holistically and with an integrated mindset,” said Rhonda M. Rabbitt, dean of Wilkes University’s School of Education. “We’re thrilled to grow our partnership with Discovery Education and offer innovative programs that are so relevant in today’s education space.”
Tuition is $438 per credit. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and submit professional recommendations, official transcripts and a copy of their teaching certification during the admissions process.
Access to Discovery Education’s full suite of services, including Discovery Education Streaming Plus and the Discovery Education Techbook series, are included in tuition.
Prospective students can learn more at masters.discoveryeducation.com. For more information, contact Stephanie Wasmanski at (570) 408-5535 or stephanie.wasmanski@wilkes.edu.
About Discovery Education:
Discovery Education is the global leader in standards-based digital content for K-12, transforming teaching and learning with award-winning digital textbooks, multimedia content, professional development, and the largest professional learning community of its kind. Serving 3 million educators and over 30 million students, Discovery Education’s services are in half of U.S. classrooms, over 40 percent of all primary schools in the UK, and more than 50 countries. Discovery Education partners with districts, states and like-minded organizations to captivate students, empower teachers, and transform classrooms with customized solutions that increase academic achievement. Discovery Education is powered by Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK), the number one nonfiction media company in the world. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.