From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Creating an Engaging Classroom from Day One

3 Units
Online Self-Paced
Share

Course Description

Develop the Type of Classroom That will Embrace, Engage and Motivate

This class will focus on three main components - Positive Environment, Physical Space, and Dynamic Teaching Strategies. Research and experience show that more learning takes place when students feel connected and are engaged, excited and challenged. This course will provide ideas and plans for creating a classroom where all students feel a sense of belonging, of being seen and heard and take ownership in their own learning. Strategies and activities will be offered for promoting engaged learning and participants will have the opportunity to develop and share ideas for achieving the type of classroom that will embrace, engage and motivate students and ultimately increase learning.

Final submission for all sections is due on or before December 13, 2026. Transcripts will be issued no sooner than 7 days AFTER  December 13, 2026.

Course Details

Number or Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course is designed to benefit a wide range of professionals involved in the education system including K-12 educators, administrators, counselors and support staff in the field of education.

Course Dates: This course starts on Monday, September 14, 2026 and should be completed on or before Sunday, December 13, 2026

Course Format: Online Self-Paced, within given dates*.

*Online Self-Paced courses are a perfect blend of accessibility, convenience and flexibility for you to control your learning pace. Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your submissions and final project. Grades are based on assignments and completed projects. You have until Sunday, December 13, 2026 or sooner to complete the course. Please pace yourself to allow for instructor responses. Course completion date will reflect December 13, 2026 on the transcript for all participants that successfully meet the completed course work deadline.

Technical Requirements

Instructors: Various experienced and qualified K-12 educators. See individual course sections

Course Options

Course Date Units Price

What You Will Learn

  • Create a positive environment for lerning in the classroom by developing plans and activities which are focused on engagement
  • Understand how physical space in the classroom can affect learning
  • Develop a physical plan that will fit your classroom and needs
  • Recognize and explore various dynamic teaching strategies that will encourage student engagement and enhance learning
  • Gain the opportunity to develop your own plans for strategies and activities that can be used within your own classroom immediately

Instructors

Professional development courses offered by the ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ911’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.

Why USD?

The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.

Informative Stats and Facts

600+

High-quality, career-building courses to choose from

50+

In-depth, innovative, and relevant topics

25+

Career advancing certificates

Learning Method Information

³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ911 offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational goals.

Online Self-Paced

Our online self-paced courses are designed to provide flexibility and autonomy for learners. Unlike traditional classroom methods, which require attendance at scheduled times, self-paced courses allow you to progress through the material at your own speed within a six-month period from the time of enrollment.  Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your assignments and exams. Grades are based on completed projects, assignments and exams.

Key differences from traditional classroom methods:

  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.
  • No assigned due dates for assignments; you set your own schedule.
  • Asynchronous learning, meaning you can work on assignments anytime.
  • No discussion forums and no interaction with others enrolled in the course.
  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.

Structure of Online Self-Paced ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ911:

The content is divided into learning modules, each covering one or more topics. Within each module, you can expect the following components:

  • Module Introduction: Outlines what you can expect to learn in the module.
  • Required Readings and Presentations: Includes textbooks, articles, journals, websites, and audio/video presentations.
  • Assignments: May include written assignments, quizzes, blogs, and other activities based on the readings and presentations.
  • Module Conclusion: Reviews the topics covered and what you should have learned.

Typically, there is a final project, paper, or exam due in the last module that synthesizes all the topics covered throughout the course. The design of the learning modules follows a consistent rhythm to help you manage your time effectively. Grades will be available within two weeks of final submission, transcripts will be automatically mailed out following grades being posted and approved. Please allow 3-4 weeks from when final grades are posted to receive a transcript.

Key Benefits of Educator ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ911

A World of Choices

With hundreds of courses across a range of education-related topics, there’s a strong chance we have the ideal class for you!

Small Class Sizes

Small class sizes with real-world educators are an important part of the USD experience.

Work-Life Balance

Our educator courses offer flexible course formats and class times to help you balance your work, USD studies, and family life.