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In my entire "career" as a student, this course ranks in the top three.I've had. It has
impacted me both personally and professionally in a very positive way.
School District Professional Development Specialist, WA
I feel that this course has made me more aware of our boys' predicament in the school
environment. It has given me a different perspective with regard to problem behaviors that I
may encounter along the way. I have a better understanding of where my "tough" fifth grade boys
are coming from...not so tough after all, and I am creating an environment that allows for
their tender sides to play out.
Elementary Reading Teacher, NY
From October through December, the Gender & Diversities Institute piloted its newest online professional development course, Raising & Educating Boys: Developing Strengths and Connections in a Changing World. Developed and facilitated by GDI Fellow, Dr. Craig Flood, this six session web-based course offered participants an opportunity to examine the growing body of literature regarding boys' developmental and educational needs within the larger context of gender equity in education. Teachers, counselors, administrators and doctoral students were represented in a "cyber classroom" of women and men from throughout the United States and Australia.
The curriculum was specifically designed to provide a deeper understanding of boys' educational issues along a continuum from research to practical intervention. Through the use of weekly readings, case studies, activities and an ongoing and spirited discussion forum, participants explored school-based concerns, related to both stereotyped expectations and gender differences; the integration of strategies based on the application of resiliency research; and implemented projects related to their roles as educators.
An initial assessment of the evaluations has indicated the course was successful in meeting or exceeding its objectives, as well as participant expectations. Evaluative feedback also gave high marks to course content, facilitation, structure and pacing. An unexpected, but rewarding outcome was also reflected in the participants' overwhelming interest in "staying connected" after the course was completed. Many felt their work had just begun and recognized the ongoing value of the "community of support" that had developed over the two and a half months.
Excerpts from course evaluations:
Readings were excellent, especially moving from analysis of gender to resiliency. Similarly,
the discussion was wonderful, especially the sharing of ideas/resources and the final
projects. Craig did a fantastic job of summarizing the discussion and encouraging/supporting
people's efforts.
Gender Equity Specialist, AZ
I am pleased and inspired. While I'm learning new things about the nature of boys
and resiliency, I am learning an equal amount of how to conduct a powerful and meaningful
distance-learning course.
HS ESL Teacher
This course has encouraged me to factor in what I have learned into all aspects of my
interactions with teenagers and to questions some of the structures of the school system at
large.
HS Guidance Counselor, NY
My interactions with boys at home and at school will change as well as my prejudices. I hope
to share my course material with staff and other parents of young boys.
School Counselor, OR
Plans are currently underway to offer the course again in the Spring of 2002. If you are
interested in further information, please
visit our website for some syllabus information or contact us at
genderdiversities@edc.org.
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