About the program

The field of instructional design has made momentous strides in recent years. Many of the teaching practices considered advanced just five or ten years ago have been supplanted by methods that are far more effective. One of the most important findings is that learning processes vary considerably between individuals, and there is no single best practice for imparting knowledge to a group of students.

So how do you manage a classroom of students with differing learning abilities?

Penn State's Instructional Strategies Certificate for K-12 Teachers program is designed to show teachers how to serve students better--through instructional strategies that emphasize differentiated learning techniques. Participants will learn how to design new lessons, based on cutting-edge instructional strategies addressing the varying levels of students. Using recent theories and models describing how people learn, teachers can also equip teachers to better design lessons and learning activities with student activity in mind.

Customize the program to your field of study
Teachers can enhance their learning with content directly related to their respective area of expertise through an elective course in math, science, or social studies.

Continue on to a master's degree
Teachers who successfully complete the Instructional Strategies Certificate for K-12 Teachers can apply their credits toward a master's degree in educational technology, or they can use the courses as electives to a number of other Penn State master's degree programs. Contact an academic adviser to ensure that these credits will transfer to your program of interest.

Who should enroll
This certificate program is designed for K-12 teachers dedicated to meeting the educational needs of all students in the classroom.