I believe you’re not as ready for school as you wish you were – I myself was far more excited with September as a student than as a teacher. But after two years of teaching in a primary school I quit and ever since my little ritual on the 1st of September has been drinking coffee on the balcony, watching children and teens slowly going back to school and revelling in their misery.
I’m not Evil Mistress in the World for nothing.
However, September mood makes me feel like studying – so here I am with my monthly list of awesome and free online courses you may enjoy this month:
1 English for the Workplace by the British Council
Starts: 3.09.2018
Duration: 4 weeks
For whom: non-native English speakers who have studied English to at least pre-intermediate level (approximately A2 on the CEFR)
This course may not be challenging for you as a teacher, but it may be perfect if you want to show your lower-level students that they can actually learn not only English but also IN English. I’m sure this course will be a great confidence boost to your students and will keep them motivated for a long time! And those of your students who think of looking for a new job will certainly enjoy it.
2 Fundamentals of Graphic Design by California Institute of the Arts
Starts: 03.09.2018
Duration: 4 weeks
For whom: all the teachers creating their own materials
Creating own materials is quite common, and this course will teach you the fundamental principles of graphic design: imagemaking, typography, composition, working with color and shape… foundational skills that are common in all areas of graphic design practice. Applying the knowledge you’ll gain during this course will make your self-made materials absolutely stunning. Sounds great? Definitely for me!
3 Inclusive Learning and Teaching Environments by the University of Southampton
Starts: 3.09.2018
Duration: 3 weeks
For whom: teachers and educators interested in inclusive practices
This course is designed for people working with students with disabilities. You will explore the barriers experienced by disabled students and learn how to overcome these barriers through inclusive practices. This course will help you learn about different aspects of inclusion and digital accessibility experienced by students, teachers and support staff. I think this may be a really valuable course for everyone.
4 Indigenous Canada by University of Alberta
Starts: 03.09.2018
Duration: 12 weeks
For whom: people who want to know more about Canada
I love Lucy Maud Montgomery and her PEI stories, but obviously there’s far more to Canada than her books – and this course explores key issues facing indigenous people focusing on national and local Indigenous-settler relations. Topics include the fur trade and other exchange relationships, land claims and environmental impacts, legal systems and rights, political conflicts and alliances, indigenous political activism, and contemporary indigenous life, art and its expressions.
5 Understanding Research Methods by University of London, SOAS University of London
Starts: 03.09.2018
Duration: 4 weeks
For whom: people who require an understanding of research approaches and skills
This course is about demystifying research and research methods. It’s perfect for all students as they often have to do some research, but I believe each of us, living in the times of post-truth, may find it extremely useful. The course focuses on what makes a good research and a good researcher, various approaches to literature etc. In 2015, the course was nominated for the prestigious Guardian University Award for its innovative approach to online learning.
6 The Art of Photography by RMIT University
Starts: 09.09.2018
Duration: 4 weeks
For whom: people interested in photography
Photography is becoming more and more popular – a lot of teens are interested in it, so you can either take this course yourself or recommend it to your students. You will learn about photography as a visual art practice, explore the work and concepts of various artists, and learn some of the practical skills required to explore photography in exciting and creative ways. The course will also help you grasp some ideas connected with post-production knowledge and techniques.
7 Teaching Adult Learners by Central Institute of Technology
Starts: 09.09.2018
Duration: 4 weeks
For whom: teachers who start working with adults
If you’re to change your teaching environment, you may find this course particularly useful. It focuses on the importance of working in a safe and accountable learning environment. You will learn how to examine the working factors of teaching adults, identify elements of instructional design and evaluate your experience.
I hope you’ll find the courses really useful and have fun learning something new.
Enjoy!
