Online Courses for Teachers

Implementing the Workshop Model in Reading, Writing, Math, and Science

(Grades 4-8) / Flex Course

PDI Course Number: 11T02 / UCSD Course Number: EDUC40221

Course Description

Are you wondering what the word workshop has to do with reading, writing, mathematics, and science? After all, a workshop is typically a messy place where people come to imagine, apply, and create. The fact of the matter is that the whole process of teaching and learning can and should become “messy,” as students grapple with rigorous concepts and ideas within the confines of a predictable, motivating, and engaging routine. This online course for teachers is designed for educators in grades 4-8 who want to learn how to better engage their students as they examine and investigate a variety of interesting and engaging concepts and activities on a daily basis using the workshop model. The focus of the course is on helping teachers implement a workshop model for reading, writing, math, and science that includes a mini-lesson, student-directed independent work (while the teacher meets with small groups or conferences), and sharing. Some of the additional highlighted topics include backwards planning and organization, goal setting, project-based learning through the use of STEM activities, and tapping into students’ natural curiosity using makerspaces, all under the auspices of a rigorous, supportive, and engaging classroom. By the end of this continuing education course, teachers will feel confident implementing the workshop approach in the classroom for all content areas. This online professional development course is worth 3 ⅓ semester units/5 quarter units (50 hours of training) from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Division of Extended Studies. For detailed information on receiving university credit for your PDI professional development course, visit our credit page.

Need help? Kimya Nabavi, PDI Program Coordinator, is ready to assist.

"The content and resources from this course are excellent. I can review material to use in my everyday teaching practice." - Shavern Paul-Fraser