Casual Teachers find access to professional development to be challenging, even at the best of times. This would also involve forgoing work and income just to complete any professional development that is essential to their work.
Fortunately, even before COVID-19 stretched its tentacles around the world, there were providers already providing on-demand professional development for casual teachers.
I am going to share three providers that will provide professional development to casual teachers. Some of these providers are also available for full-time teaching staff. Some full-time staff may even find courses for casual teachers useful in their everyday teaching. Win/Win.
Yearly membership is $99 but there may be offers that allow for reduced fee membership. It is the main provider of professional development for casual teachers. While there are some curriculum and technology offerings, options may be limited. Curriculum offerings are limited across all key learning areas and focus on essential skills, pedagogies and technology that is provided as part of the curriculum. However courses relating to classroom management are excellent. Some courses are also NESA accredited. Those seeking more in-depth professional development may need to go elsewhere.
Teacher Learning Network (TLN)
At this stage, a yearly subscription costs $350 but they do charge pro-rata rates after March 31. If you can hold off until after March 31, and you have the time, it becomes better value for money. Even at the full rate, I believe its great value for money. I signed up early this term after finding it while investigating on-demand PD options and have completed nine courses so far. Some of the areas covered include leadership, professional network/learning, diverse learners and technology. For casual teachers, there is also a portal with even more courses available designed for casual teachers. The courses featured are initially presented live to members but are available for viewing up to two years after they have been presented. Certificates are available on request and will be handy for a professional portfolio.
Do not let the $299 annual fee deter you from accessing this site but caters to all key learning areas. You can attend individually but note that individual courses cost the same as a yearly subscription. All courses are delivered online. I am exploring taking a one year subscription.
Finally, did you know its easy to become an Apple Teacher. All you need is an iTunes account and you can complete modules to become a certified Apple Teacher. I took it this year, and though good with technology, discovered some new ways that I can intergrate technology into my teaching.
Click here to visit the Apple Teacher Website.
