Professional Development
Environmental Issues in Virginia Microcredential
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is pleased to offer professional development on science concepts and pedagogy that support classroom instruction of the 2018 Virginia Science Standards of Learning. The intention of this professional learning opportunity is to provide K-12 teachers with sustained professional development with the purpose of increasing participant understanding of environmental concepts and issues specific to Virginia. To that end, the VDOE is offering four modules that support instruction of the environmental standards embedded into the 2018 Virginia Science Standards of Learning. The four modules include:
- Energy Use in Virginia
- Impact of Invasive Species on Virginia Ecosystems
- Climate Change and Impacts in Virginia
- Virginia's Forests: Ecology and Management
The modules are asynchronous, virtual, self-paced, housed in Virtual Virginia, and take about 10 hours to complete. Participants receive a certificate upon completion of each module. You may enroll in any or all modules. A microcredential is awarded upon completion of all four modules.
Although self-paced, the modules have established start and completion dates. The dates of the modules are May 28 – July 5, 2024 and July 8 – August 30, 2024.
Space is limited and based on a first come first serve basis. Contact Gregory MacDougall if you have any questions. To register, complete the registration form and indicate your preferred dates for attendance. Join us in advancing environmental education in Virginia!
Professional Development Support Videos
In order to support teachers and divisions as they implement the 2018 Science Standards of Learning, professional development opportunities as well as ancillary resources are being created.
- The 2018 Science Standards of Learning of Learning Curriculum Framework
- Scientific and Engineering Practices in the 2018 Science Standards
- Introduction to Meaningful Watershed Education Experiences (MWEEs)
- The Engineering Design Process
- Third Grade Science Common Rubric