Curriculum Framework
This training is self-paced. The course is provided as a collaboration between the Virginia Commonwealth University Autism Center for Education and Virginia Department of Education. To participate, you need a computer with (preferably high-speed) internet access, an internet browser, and a sound card with speakers in order to listen to the lectures (full-text transcripts are provided).
Course Overview
This interactive module on Curriculum Framework aims to empower educators to confidently support children with Individualized Education Programs, taking into account their unique strengths and interests. Educators can enhance their effectiveness in the classroom by understanding the key elements of a curriculum framework and how they work in tandem to nurture children and families. This resource encourages reflection on how to implement these elements to create a supportive learning environment for all children. Through elements like curriculum modifications, educators can ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Who Should Take This Course
This course is designed for any professional who supports young children with disabilities in early childhood settings. This includes early childhood educators, child care professionals, aides or instructional assistants, administrators, related service providers such as speech and language pathologists (SLPs) or Occupational Therapists (OTs), and families.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the components of the curriculum framework system and how these elements work together to enhance learning outcomes of young students.
- Identify how the components of the curriculum framework system can assist teaching teams to differentiate instruction and activities to meet the individual needs of students.
- Reflect on current teaching practices and consider what might need to be added or changed to utilize this curriculum framework system in the teaching setting or environment..
- Identify a variety of resources for the different components of curriculum framework.
Organization of the Course
The modules in this online training are self-paced, meaning you can complete them at your own speed. This online training is divided into six topics: Assessment, Scope and Sequence, Environment, Activities and Instruction, Progress Monitoring, and Curriculum Modifications. There are 19 lessons total and 6 knowledge checks. You may begin in any area and review / complete the sections that are relevant to your needs. However, in order to receive a certificate of completion, all lessons must be completed.
Course Modules
Each module contains information that includes printed content and videos and/or podcasts on a specific topic area that is focused on implementing a curriculum. Presenters include both professionals in the field, in addition to professionals from VCU Autism Center for Education, and early childhood specialists from across the T-TACs in the Commonwealth. The presentation may include support documents you can view or download and use. Additionally, website links may be provided so you can obtain further information.
Module Listing
| Module 1: | Assessment |
| Module 2: | Scope and Sequence |
| Module 3: | Environment |
| Module 4: | Activities and Instruction |
| Module 5: | Progress Monitoring |
| Module 6: | Curriculum Modifications |
Continuing Education Units
Points for educators working towards licensure renewal (recertification) may be awarded for completion if all content for each module is completed. VDOE provides the following requirements regarding professional development activities: Point value: one point per clock/ contact hour; must be a minimum of five hours per activity. We estimate this course to take a total of 3 contact hours to complete. Any teacher who wants to use it as a professional development activity for recertification needs prior approval from the school district. The school district will be responsible for designating the actual number of points that a teacher can earn for participating in the course.
* Please note that the course/ training does not meet any of the requirements for initial licensure in special education or any category of licensure endorsement.
Virginia Commonwealth University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center’s Autism Center for Education (VCU-RRTC-ACE) is funded by the VA Dept. of Education, contract number 881-APE61184-H173A220112. VCU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution providing access to education and employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, veteran’s status, political affiliation, or disability. If special accommodations are needed, please contact Jennifer McDonough at (804) 828-1851 VOICE or (804) 828-2494 TTY.