Tips for Success
Getting the Most Out Of Your Educational Opportunity
Distance learning may be new to you. Don't worry, we've tried very hard to develop a program that will not only provide you with the most valuable education, but will also be easily navigated and applicable to both your professional and personal development. It's an exciting new opportunity to advance your knowledge and skills-with the help of technology, when and where it's convenient! Welcome Aboard!!
We hope you will take a few minutes to read over these module structure guidelines and "tips for success." Take your learning very seriously and allow yourself the time and enjoyment you deserve in order to gain the greatest benefit from the educational program you are about to undertake. The Professional Service Coordinator Certificate Program has been designed specifically for you, and we are glad you have decided to participate.
MODULE STRUCTURE
Each module is designed to be as user-friendly as possible. Modules will vary in complexity and length, each taking between 1 and 3 hours to complete. If you are interrupted or find you have limited time available, you may leave the module in progress and return to complete it at a later time. You can expect to see:
- Objectives for learning located at the beginning of each module.
- The Background follows - this is the kind of information you might get from listening to the lecture in a traditional classroom!
- Each Module will include Lessons (usually 5-8 per module). The Lessons provide in-depth insight into the overall module topic. You will be guided through each Lesson by following the navigation along the left side of your computer screen. You will be asked a question at the end of each lesson. Once you provide the correct response to that question you will be granted access to the next Lesson in the Module, and so on.
- Once you've completed all the Lessons, you will have access to the Post Test. We ask that you achieve 100% on the Post Test, and you will have access to all the learning materials for review in case you have some difficulty with a Post Test question.
- Upon successful completion of the Post Test, you will move forward to complete and submit a short Evaluation.
- Your Documentation of Successful Completion will be available for you to print following submission of the Evaluation. Therefore, you immediately know how successful your learning has been, and receive documentation of that success by printing the Certificate right from the web site and your own printer. There's no long delay, and nothing to fax or mail, in order to receive proof of your successful completion.
- Some of the Modules also include Pre Tests or Case Studies. They are presented within the sequence of the material outlined above, and you should find them just as user-friendly as the rest of the curriculum we present.
- We have also provided additional Resources throughout the modules. They represent links or references to important organizations, reading materials, or general opportunities to enhance your personal and professional development. We encourage you to utilize them to their fullest.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
We know you'll strive to achieve the fullest educational benefit from this program. Adult learners are self-directed, motivated participants who realize the benefit of life-long learning. Distance education is perfect for the adult learner!!
- Take your time. Each module should take between 1 and 3 hours to complete.
- Read through the material thoroughly. Professional trainers and educators from The Ohio State University, the American Association of Service Coordinators, and other professional organizations have contributed their expertise to build a program specifically for you.
- Follow all the links and resources. These are not "add ons"; they represent important information and are part of the core learning experience. Not only do the links and resources influence your learning, you will also find them to be valuable in your work with residents, families and community partners.
- Be sure to print and utilize the Exercises for Growth and Reflection when they are presented. By taking the time to think broadly about the questions posed in these exercises, you may discover personal and professional growth strategies that never occurred to you before.
- Share your thoughts freely when completing the Evaluation at the end of each Module. The development team takes your comments seriously and will be continually refining the program to meet the expectations and interests of the participants.
- Most of all, have fun!! Experiencing distance learning, having an opportunity to grow within your profession and personally, and having ready access to knowledge and resources that will make your work easier on a daily basis, are exciting opportunities that should be enjoyed to their fullest.
The development team is very proud of the Professional Service Coordinator Certificate Program. We value life-long learning and professional development, and have worked to develop a curriculum that continually reflects the program's motto, "Connecting People, Education, Services and Quality of Life." We look forward to sharing our enthusiasm with all participants and, therefore, helping enhance the lives of those you serve each day.