Last updated on Jul 3, 2024

Here's how you can access online courses and training programs to learn new skills as an educational leader.

As an educational leader, you're always looking for ways to enhance your skills and knowledge. The digital age offers a plethora of online courses and training programs that can help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're seeking to improve your management techniques, learn new educational technology tools, or understand the latest in curriculum development, there's an online resource out there for you. This guide will walk you through accessing these resources so you can continue to lead with confidence and innovation.

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1 Identify Needs

Before diving into the vast sea of online learning, it's crucial to pinpoint the specific skills you aim to develop. Reflect on your current role and consider areas where you feel less confident or where there's room for improvement. Perhaps you want to enhance your communication abilities, or maybe you're looking to better understand data analysis to make informed decisions. By clearly defining your learning objectives, you can efficiently search for courses and programs that match your professional growth needs.

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Shane DeHorney

Instructional Designer - Houston Community College - Master of Curriculum & Instruction with an Emphasis in Technology
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One thing I found helpful is to consider what other educational organizations are doing in the field that you’re considering. This will give you an idea if you are on the right track. It can open your eyes to goals that you may not have considered previously.

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2 Research Options

Once you've identified your learning goals, it's time to research the best courses and programs available. Use search engines and professional networks to find options tailored to educational leaders. Look for comprehensive course descriptions, instructor credentials, and reviews from past participants to ensure quality. Remember, the goal is to find training that not only aligns with your needs but also comes from reputable sources that will genuinely enhance your leadership capabilities.

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3 Compare Platforms

The platform hosting the online course or program can greatly impact your learning experience. Some platforms specialize in short, skill-based tutorials, while others offer in-depth, university-style courses. Additionally, consider the user interface, accessibility, and whether the platform provides interactive elements such as forums or live sessions. These features can greatly enhance your engagement and learning outcomes.

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4 Enroll and Engage

After selecting the right course or program, proceed with enrollment. This may involve creating an account on the platform, paying any necessary fees, and marking important dates on your calendar. Once enrolled, commit to actively engaging with the material. Participate in discussions, complete assignments on time, and apply what you learn to real-world situations. The true value of these courses lies in how you integrate new knowledge into your leadership practice.

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5 Network Online

Learning online doesn't mean you have to do it alone. Many courses offer opportunities to network with fellow learners and professionals in the field of education. Engage with peers through course forums, social media groups, or virtual meetups. These connections can provide support, diverse perspectives, and potential collaborations that enrich your professional journey and open doors to new opportunities.

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Michele Meier Vosberg, Ph.D.

I help schools mentor, support, and retain teachers. Inspired Together Teachers Podcast Co-Host, The New Teacher Navigator Mentoring Program
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I earned a PH.D. online and now create online programming, I understand the need to engage with others in the program. It is easy to take a course and read or watch videos and do the required work, but many times the best insight comes from engaging with others in the program. Read and respond to their posts. Ask them questions. When you find someone who ideas and energy you connect to, set up a time to meet for online for a coffee chat to share ideas. In the online learning world, you will truly get out of something what you put into it. The opportunities are there to develop meaningful interactions, to share, to ask others for their ideas and to understand issues from multiple perspectives. Take advantage of those opportunities!

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6 Stay Updated

The field of education is constantly evolving, and so should your skills. After completing a course or program, keep an eye out for new opportunities to learn. Subscribe to newsletters, follow educational thought leaders on social media, and join professional associations that offer ongoing training and development. By staying updated, you ensure that your leadership skills remain sharp and relevant in an ever-changing educational landscape.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can access online courses and training programs to learn new skills as an educational leader.

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2

3

4

5

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1 Identify Needs

2 Research Options

3 Compare Platforms

4 Enroll and Engage

5 Network Online

6 Stay Updated

7 Here’s what else to consider

Educational Leadership

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Here's how you can access online courses and training programs to learn new skills as an educational leader.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify Needs

2 Research Options

3 Compare Platforms

4 Enroll and Engage

5 Network Online

6 Stay Updated

7 Here’s what else to consider

Educational Leadership

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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