Instructor: Jim Aiu
Email Address:
ictm@viebach.net
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
2. What is the attendance policy?
3. Can I get a Masters Degree using a PLS class?
4. Do I have to be enrolled in a Masters Program to take a PLS Class?
5. How much work/tests are there?
6. Will I be sitting in a chair listening to lecture for four hours?
Performance Learning Systems (PLS) is a private company which has been offering classes and training for teachers since 1971. Our classes are based upon the latest research, and we will look at some of it; however, what makes PLS classes unique is their format…full of hands on group activities and development of ideas/activities for your classroom. You will leave ANY PLS class with ideas and activities you can take directly to your classroom the next day.
2. What is the attendance policy?
Because of the highly participatory nature and the discussion orientation of this class, attendance is absolutely mandatory. It is extremely difficult for a student to make up missed classes. If it is absolutely necessary to miss a class, mandatory attendance in another class is required before a grade can be assigned.
Moraine Valley faculty may only be excused from class for required Moraine Valley business or family medical emergency. Grade reduction is 3% for each schedule hour missed (including being late to class).
3. Can I get a Masters Degree using a PLS class?
Moraine Valley Community College, University of St. Francis, and PLS have come together to offer you the potential of obtaining a Masters Degree in Teaching and Learning. Contact the CTL for further information on this program.
4. Do I have to be enrolled in a Masters Program to take a PLS Class?
Absolutely not. While the Masters Degree is always an option, each class is taught independent of each other (no prerequisite classes). They may be used for professional development hours as well.
5. How much work/tests are there?
PLS classes are written for teachers to take ideas and activities back to the classroom for their students. While we will examine synopsis of research, and you’ll have one or two ‘1-page’ reaction papers to write, our focus is really helping make connections between students and teachers. There is some outside of class work, but it is very manageable for those who have a full time job. There are NO EXAMS…just a portfolio of assignments which you will turn in. This is one of the reasons that attendance is so mandatory. Most of the work and learning will be done in class.
6. Will I be sitting in a chair listening to lecture for four hours?
Absolutely not!!! PLS classes are based upon research on learning, which indicates that students need to be ‘engaged’ for learning to take place. They are highly active, energetic, and constantly moving classes. Sorry…but you won’t be sitting and listening in THESE classes.