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Microcredential

Microcredential: Foundations of Artificial Intelligence for Instructional Practice (Level 1)

This six-part learning experience provides a comprehensive foundation for general education teachers to understand artificial intelligence and its role in education.

  • 5 Hours Self-paced, relevant training
  • 6 Courses
  • Certificate Included Up to 5 CE credits
  • Learn Anywhere Access courses on any device
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  • 6 courses, 5 hours, self-paced
  • Taught by 3 instructors
  • Certificate included, up to 5 CE credits
  • Access courses on any device
  • 1,000+ more courses included

Description

This six-part learning experience provides a comprehensive foundation for general education teachers to understand artificial intelligence and its role in education. Participants explore the big picture of AI in teaching and learning, key AI tools, ethical considerations, and strategies for lesson planning, differentiation, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). The program combines practical examples, curated webinars, and evidence-based practices to ensure teachers gain confidence in using AI responsibly while understanding its potential and limitations.

By the end of this microcredential, educators will have a solid grasp of AI concepts, tools, and ethical considerations and will be ready to begin integrating AI thoughtfully into classroom planning.

This microcredential is ideal for classroom teachers, instructional coaches, technology integration specialists, curriculum leaders, and school administrators who are looking to build foundational AI knowledge and explore practical applications for teaching and learning. Participants will gain strategies for improving efficiency, enhancing instructional design, supporting differentiation, and making informed decisions about the responsible use of AI in educational settings.

Learning Objectives

  • Identify key AI concepts, terminology, and types of AI tools (e.g., generative AI, adaptive learning software) that are relevant for classroom planning, instruction, and assessment.
  • Explain the potential benefits, risks, and ethical considerations of AI use in education, including bias, privacy, and equitable access for diverse learners.
  • Implement foundational AI tools and strategies (e.g., lesson planning supports, productivity tools, formative assessment aids) to enhance instructional preparation and workflow.
  • Analyze classroom scenarios and AI outputs to evaluate potential impacts on learning, equity, and ethical use, making informed decisions about tool selection and application.
  • Assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of AI tools for different content areas, grade levels, and student populations, ensuring alignment with instructional goals.
  • Design AI-enhanced lesson plans, classroom workflows, or instructional activities that integrate responsible, student-centered practices while supporting engagement and differentiation.

Special Technology Instructions

Attendees will need access to an internet-enabled device and a personal Google account (not affiliated with their school). SimpleK12’s Google Classroom will be utilized for the interactive and hands-on components of this session.

Assessment

Participants will complete a video module AND an online exam for each course to demonstrate their understanding of the microcredential objectives and reflect on their learning.

Courses in this Microcredential

  1. 1

    Unleashing the Possibilities: Nine Ways Artificial Intelligence Can Transform Instructional Strategies

    4.93
    Read more info

    Do you want to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of education technology? Artificial Intelligence (AI) can personalize student learning experiences, making education more effective and engaging. Join Deb Norton for this timesaving, to the point session we explore nine innovative ways that teachers can harness the power of AI to revolutionize their instructional approaches including giving feedback, using chatbots, and creating assessments. Get ready to transform your teaching strategies with artificial intelligence to create a more efficient and innovative classroom environment! Deb’s expertise in educational technology will provide you with tools and resources to improve student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic success.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Understand the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its application in education.
    2. Discover nine innovative ways artificial intelligence can enhance instructional strategies.
    3. Learn how to integrate artificial intelligence tools into your teaching methods.
    4. Gain insights into the future trends of artificial intelligence in education.

    Presented by Deb Norton

    Deb Norton began her education journey as a fifth-grade teacher and has since transitioned into the role of a High School Technology Integration Specialist and Tech Coach. Her commitment to enhancing education through technology is exemplified by her attainment of a master's degree in educational technology. As a Google Certified Trainer, Deb is well-versed in harnessing the power of technology for learning. Deb's expertise does not stop there; she holds a pivotal role as the Lead EdTech Consultant at Innovative Educator Consulting, where her insights and guidance impact educators everywhere. Deb's influence extends well beyond the classroom, as she shares her knowledge and experiences as a presenter at education conferences across the nation.

    Instructor: Debra Norton30 minutes
  2. 2

    Amazing Artificial Intelligence Tools from Google

    4.89
    Read more info

    Did you know Google offers a variety of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance teaching and learning? AI is reshaping education by automating time-consuming tasks, allowing teachers to focus more on personalized instruction. Join Dr. Matt Bergman for this timesaving, to the point session as we explore Google’s well-known and hidden AI features that will transform the way you teach. You will discover experimental tools like AutoDraw and uncover the AI capabilities within Google Workspace. We will also dive into Gemini, exploring powerful prompts that can transform learning experiences. Get ready to unlock the full potential of Google’s AI tools and amplify your teaching! Matt’s expertise in Artificial Intelligence will equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to incorporate AI into your classroom, streamline teaching tasks, and maximize student learning and engagement.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discover how AI tools like AutoDraw can enhance the visual appeal of your teaching materials with minimal effort.
    2. Learn how to use Gemini to provide personalized learning experiences and real-time feedback to students.
    3. Explore practical ways to integrate AI tools into your classroom to streamline teaching tasks and foster student engagement.
    4. Understand the broader implications of AI in education and how it can transform both teaching and learning.

    Presented by Dr. Matt Bergman

    Dr. Matt Bergman is an Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator for the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at Elizabethtown College. He also has experience as a teacher, digital learning coach, adjunct professor, instructional designer, consultant, and professional development leader. In 2010, Matt launched the award-winning blog and YouTube channel, Learn Lead Grow, sharing practical UDL and technology integration strategies. Matt's accomplishments include being named the 2015 PAECT Teacher of the Year, serving a faculty member at Harvard University's UDL Institute, and he was awarded the 2024 Elizabethtown College Design Studio Fellowship to study how to enhance student learning through UDL and artificial intelligence.

    Instructor: Dr. Matt Bergman30 minutes
  3. 3

    Frontiers of Innovation: Demystifying Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom

    4.93
    Read more info

    Are you curious about the innovative ways in which artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance teaching effectiveness and support student success? AI-powered tools and technologies have the potential to revolutionize teaching and learning by providing personalized learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and offering real-time insights into student progress and performance. Join Lauren Boucher for this hands-on, interactive workshop as we embark on an exhilarating expedition into the realm of artificial intelligence, unraveling the mysteries behind AI and its profound impact on modern education. Get ready to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence in your classroom! Lauren’s expertise in digital teaching and learning will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to utilize AI-powered tools to implement targeted interventions and differentiated instruction tailored to individual student needs.

    This is workshop one of six for the series titled “Empowering Educators with Artificial Intelligence: Unlocking New Frontiers in Teaching.”

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Explore the various applications of AI in education, including personalized learning, adaptive assessment, virtual tutoring, and data-driven decision-making.
    2. Learn how AI-powered tools and technologies can help teachers differentiate instruction, identify learning gaps, and provide targeted interventions to support student success.
    3. Discover practical strategies for integrating AI into your teaching practice, including selecting and implementing AI-powered tools, analyzing data insights, and leveraging AI to enhance teaching effectiveness and student engagement.
    4. Gain insights into the ethical considerations and challenges associated with the use of AI in education, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and digital equity.

    Presented by Lauren Boucher

    Lauren Boucher is a Regional Consultant for Digital Teaching and Learning with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. She holds a master's degree in elementary education and boasts a rich teaching background, including third-grade instruction and gifted education at both elementary and middle school levels. Her expertise also extends to serving as an Instructional Technology Specialist for Pitt County Schools and she shares her insights through both in-person and online presentations at conferences across the nation.

    Instructor: Lauren Boucher60 minutes
  4. 4

    Google Gemini: A Generative Artificial Intelligence Diamond in the Rough

    4.91
    Read more info

    How can practical applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) boost student learning and increase engagement in your classroom? Gemini for Google Workspace is a Generative AI tool that can support educators in designing personalized lessons that meet all learners' needs. Join Dr. Matt Bergman for this hands-on, interactive workshop as you discover how Gemini can help you design differentiated activities, tackle complex questions, and deliver instant feedback, all while inspiring creativity and a passion for learning in your students. Matt’s expertise in Artificial Intelligence will provide you with the knowledge and tools to effortlessly integrate Gemini into your teaching, creating a more personalized, engaging, and impactful learning experience for your students.

    This is workshop one of four for the series titled “Unleashing the Power of Generative AI Tools in Education.”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discover how to leverage Gemini to create differentiated activities that cater to diverse learning needs.
    2. Learn how to use AI to tackle complex questions and enhance critical thinking in your classroom.
    3. Explore methods for delivering instant, personalized feedback that supports student growth.
    4. Uncover strategies to inspire creativity and foster a passion for learning through AI-driven instruction.

    Presented by Dr. Matt Bergman

    Dr. Matt Bergman is an award-winning educator, educational consultant, and keynote speaker. He has a rich K-12 and higher education background, serving in various roles, such as assessment and curriculum coordinator, teacher, digital learning coach, and professional development leader. In addition, Matt’s accomplishments include serving as a faculty member at Harvard University’s UDL Institute, being an ISTE presenter, and winning the PAECT Teacher of the Year.

    Instructor: Dr. Matt Bergman60 minutes
  5. 5

    Work Smarter, Not Harder: AI-Powered Teacher Hacks for Every Classroom

    4.8
    Read more info

    How can artificial intelligence help you save time and reduce stress in the classroom? AI-powered tools can simplify lesson planning, grading, and differentiation, allowing teachers to focus more on student engagement and instruction. Join Lauren Boucher for this hands-on, interactive workshop and discover practical, AI-powered hacks that make lesson planning, grading, and classroom organization faster and easier. You’ll also learn how to integrate AI tools to support differentiation, streamline repetitive tasks, and enhance accessibility for all students. Get ready to work smarter, not harder—unlock the power of AI to transform your teaching efficiency! Lauren’s expertise in instructional design will provide you with real-world strategies to work smarter, not harder—so you can spend less time on prep and more time doing what you love: teaching.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discover AI tools that simplify lesson planning, grading, and content creation.
    2. Explore automation strategies to streamline classroom management and communication.
    3. Learn AI-driven differentiation techniques to meet the diverse needs of your students effortlessly.
    4. Gain time-saving hacks to enhance organization, accessibility, and productivity in your classroom.

    Presented by Lauren Boucher

    Lauren Boucher is a Regional Consultant for Digital Teaching and Learning with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. She holds a master's degree in elementary education and boasts a rich teaching background, including third-grade instruction and gifted education at both elementary and middle school levels. Her expertise also extends to serving as an Instructional Technology Specialist for Pitt County Schools and she shares her insights through both in-person and online presentations at conferences across the nation.

    Instructor: Lauren Boucher60 minutes
  6. 6

    Tips and Tricks for Combining Universal Design for Learning and Artificial Intelligence

    4.94
    Read more info

    Are you curious about how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can work together to foster accessibility, engagement, and academic success for every student? When combined with UDL principles, AI can enhance accessibility by providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression, ensuring that all students have equitable access to learning opportunities. Join Dr. Matt Bergman for this hands-on, interactive workshop as we explore a treasure trove of free AI tools to unpack standards, build custom scaffolds, craft engaging assessments, and so much more. Get ready to unleash the power of artificial intelligence for inclusive learning! Matt’s expertise in universal design for learning will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to design lessons that cater to every student's unique needs and transform your classroom into a thriving landscape of personalized learning powered by AI and UDL.

    This is workshop four of four for the series titled “The Transformative Power of Universal Design for Learning.”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discover practical strategies for leveraging AI technology to support UDL implementation, including adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and personalized feedback mechanisms.
    2. Explore how AI can assist in providing differentiated instruction, scaffolding learning experiences, and assessing student progress in real-time, enhancing the effectiveness of UDL-based instruction.
    3. Learn how to integrate AI-driven tools and resources into your teaching practice to create dynamic and interactive learning environments that promote student autonomy, mastery, and engagement.
    4. Gain insights into the transformative potential of combining UDL and AI in education, and how to advocate for the adoption of AI-supported UDL approaches in your school or district.

    Presented by Dr. Matt Bergman

    Dr. Matt Bergman is an Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator for the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at Elizabethtown College. He also has experience as a teacher, digital learning coach, adjunct professor, instructional designer, consultant, and professional development leader. In 2010, Matt launched the award-winning blog and YouTube channel, Learn Lead Grow, sharing practical UDL and technology integration strategies. Matt's accomplishments include being named the 2015 PAECT Teacher of the Year, serving a faculty member at Harvard University's UDL Institute, and he was awarded the 2024 Elizabethtown College Design Studio Fellowship to study how to enhance student learning through UDL and artificial intelligence.

    Instructor: Dr. Matt Bergman60 minutes
Meet

Learn From 3 Expert Educators

Debra Norton, Instructional Technology Coordinator
Debra Norton Instructional Technology Coordinator

Deb Norton is a Tech Integration Coordinator in Wisconsin’s Oshkosh Area School District. A former 5th grade teacher, she leads ISTE U’s AI course, holds a master’s in EdTech, and is a Google Certified Trainer. She presents nationally and shares her passion via blogging and social media.

Specializes In: Google Workspace
Dr. Matt Bergman, Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator
Dr. Matt Bergman Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator

Dr. Matt Bergman is an Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator at Elizabethtown College. A “UDL Evangelist,” he draws on his background in teaching, coaching, and design to help create inclusive, accessible learning using UDL, tech, AI, and SEL strategies.

Specializes In: Differentiation and Personalization
Lauren Boucher, Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant
Lauren Boucher Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant

Lauren Boucher has 18+ years in public education, teaching 3rd grade, gifted K-8, and working as a Digital Teaching and Learning Coach. Now a Southeast Regional Consultant for the NC Department of Public Instruction, she shares innovative ed tech practices nationwide.

Specializes In: Artificial Intelligence
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