NCE Wired | National College of Education

NCE Professional Development

When the going gets tough, the tough go to NCE for professional development courses. Now is not the time to stand still and hope for the best. It's time to get better credentials, be better prepared and get what you need to be the best educator you can be in these challenging times.

Now is the time to look to the professionals who really are the leaders in their fields. Educators who invented best practices. Teachers who aren't satisfied with the status quo and who still believe that they can do more for the children in their classrooms. A college of education that specializes in adult learners—and faculty who have been trained by some of the best teachers in Chicago and across the country.

Now is the time to invest in your career. In your profession. In education. In you. So invest wisely. The Center for Professional Development at the National College of Education. It's worth your time. Now. More than ever.

Registration Information

Important Registration Information
Spring 2012 term begins Monday, April 2

Students may register at any of the five NLU campus Advising Office locations using the NLU graduate registration form. If paying with a credit card, you may also FAX your registration to 312.261.3044. Forms are available at www.nl.edu/advising. Current NLU students may also register via the web (on-line). Go to www.nl.edu. Follow the instructions to log on and register for classes. If you receive financial aid/student loans please write "FINANCIAL AID" at the top of your registration form. Remember to register early. Workshops and classes with low enrollment, regardless of the start date, will be canceled during the week of March 26, 2012. For questions regarding the Center for Professional Development workshops, contact Sheri Israelsen, sisraelsen@nl.edu or Kerrie Butler, kbutler@nl.edu at 847.947.5247.

Summer 2012 term begins Monday, June 25

Students may register at any of the five NLU campus Advising Office locations using the NLU graduate registration form. If paying with a credit card, you may also FAX your registration to 312.261.3044. Forms are available at www.nl.edu/advising. Current NLU students may also register via the web (on-line). Go to www.nl.edu. Follow the instructions to log on and register for classes. If you receive financial aid/student loans please write "FINANCIAL AID" at the top of your registration form. Remember to register early. Workshops and classes with low enrollment, regardless of the start date, will be canceled during the week of June 18, 2012. For questions regarding the Center for Professional Development workshops, contact Sheri Israelsen, sisraelsen@nl.edu or Kerrie Butler, kbutler@nl.edu at 847.947.5247.

New and Current Students
  • Option 1: in person at the Registrar's Office on any of NLU's campuses using the NLU graduate registration form. (download now)
  • Option 2: if paying with a credit card, FAX your registration to 847.465.4746.
  • Option 3: register online.
  • Remember to register early.
  • Spring 2012 Term—workshops and classes with low enrollment, regardless of the start date, will be canceled during the week of March 26, 2012.
  • Summer 2012 Term—workshops and classes with low enrollment, regardless of the start date, will be canceled during the week of June 18, 2012.
  • Questions? Contact Sheri Israelsen or Kerrie Butler at 847.947.5247.
Important Dates: Spring 2012 Term
  • Mar. 19 Deadline for Spring 2012 Mail-in Registration
  • Mar. 30 Deadline for Spring 2012 Walk-in/Faxed Registration
  • May 28 Memorial Day Observed-University Closed
  • June 15 Deadline for Summer 2012 Mail-in Registration
  • June 22 Deadline for Summer 2012 Walk-in/Faxed Registration
  • July 4 Independence Day Observed-University Closed
Tuition Rates

Spring 2012—Graduate $350 per semester hour for all workshops. MC, Visa, Discover, AE are accepted for tuition payment.

Summer 2012—TBA

Course Credit and Book Information

The number that follows the title of the course of workshop is the number of semester hours (sh) you can earn for it. A maximum of 15sh of CPD and transfer credit (approved) may be applied toward master's degree requirements or toward the C.A.S. program. Workshops are not offered for the purpose of satisfying course requirements for initial and/or additional certification. Advisor approval is necessary in order to apply workshop credit to a degree.

NEW NLU Virtual Bookstore

Elgin, Lisle, Skokie, and Wheeling campus students
toll free: 877.284.6744 ext. 5255
shop online 24/7
forms of payment: Credit/Debit Cards: MC, Visa, Discover, AE
Orders are shipped from eCampus within 24 hours
(excluding weekends and holidays)

Where would you like to learn?

  • On Campus

    • Chicago

      122 South Michigan, Chicago, IL 60603
      Check back often for updates and additions

      • MHE450 | Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers (3 sh)

        This is a mathematics content course for prospective and inservice elementary school teachers. It addresses the concepts of a comprehensive elementary and middle school mathematics curriculum through reasoning and problem solving in the areas of patterns, number, geometry, measurement, data, and chance. This course can be used to eliminate a general education mathematics deficiency and/or used towards an endorsement in teaching middle school mathematics.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 30683
        Thurs., 4/5—6/14, 5:00pm—9:00pm
        Instructor: D. Raabe

      • MHE501 | Topics in Mathematics for Teachers: Number Concepts and Operations in the Elementary Middle School Mathematics Curriculum (3 sh)

        This is a mathematics course for prospective and inservice teachers. It addresses the concepts of number and its operations as they occur in a comprehensive elementary and middle school mathematics curriculum using reasoning, problem solving, and technology to understand its historical development as well as its applications in the areas of geometry, measurement, and data and chance. Opportunities to see how number is essential to understanding other subject areas are included. This course can be used to eliminate a general education mathematics deficiency and/or used towards an endorsement in teaching middle school mathematics.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60383
        Tues. & Thurs., 6/26—7/31, 5:00pm—9:00pm
        Instructor: Trish Davlantes

    • Elgin

      620 Tollgate Road, Elgin, IL 60123

        No programs listed at this time.

    • Lisle

      850 Warrenville Road, Lisle, IL 60532

        No programs listed at this time.

    • Skokie

      5202 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077

      • RLL595AB | Special Topics in Reading: Teaching Literacy & Library Through Technology (1 or 2 sh)

        Choose to take this for one or two semester hours. This is an overview course to introduce a wide range of technology that supports literacy and library instruction. Emphasis will be on understanding theory as well as using technology in practical ways. Issues related to the use of technology in a classroom or school library will be discussed.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 31216
        Sat., 4/21 & 5/5, 9:00am–3:00pm, plus online
        Instructor: J. Yokota

    • Wheeling

      1000 Capitol Drive, Wheeling, IL 60090

      • MHE450 | Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers (3 sh)

        This is a mathematics content course for prospective and inservice elementary school teachers. It addresses the concepts of a comprehensive elementary and middle school mathematics curriculum through reasoning and problem solving in the areas of patterns, number, geometry, measurement, data, and chance. This course can be used to eliminate a general education mathematics deficiency and/or used towards an endorsement in teaching middle school mathematics.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60382
        Mon. & Wed., 6/25—8/1, 5:00pm—9:00pm
        Instructor: D. Raabe

      • RLR583H | WS/Reading/Perspectives on the Brain, Learning & Reading Instruction (1 sh)

        This interactive workshop involves using current brain research in the classroom to increase reading and learning by applying the strategies of brain compatible learning. This workshop complements the curriculum in reading by offering practical, interactive, inductive learning about brain research and its connection to reading, and learning.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60670
        Mon. & Tues., 7/30 & 7/31, 9:00am—5:00pm
        Instructor: K. Kuta

  • Off Campus

    • Brookfield Zoo/Chicago Zoological Society

      3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513
      Contact: Lanis Petrik 708.688.8372 or Lanis.Petrik@czs.org
      Check back often for updates and additions

      • SCE582BR | WS/Science ED/Topic/Species or Taxon: Ocean Explorers (3 sh)

        For all grades. Course participants will join staff and scientists from Brookfield Zoo as they explore a species (such as giraffes) or taxon (comprised of related species) of animals. Topics of study will include: status in the wild, effects of human interactions, captive care and breeding programs, husbandry issues, research (both in situ and in captivity) projects, and methods for teaching about the species or taxon in the classroom or focused field trip setting. Our most popular summer class is back! We focus on ocean animals: bottlenose dolphins, penguins, seals, sea lions, and more. Carry out a behavioral observation and develop inquiry questions for use with your students. The fee includes curriculum materials and a book.

        Please bring a sack lunch each day of the workshop. Upon registration, maps & driving directions will be e-mailed to participants.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 31060
        Mon., thru Fri., 6/18—6/22, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Instructor: L. Petrik

      • SCE582BX | WS/Science ED/Topic/Animal Behavior: Communication (1sh)

        Animals communicate through sound, smell, postures, colors, actions and more! Participants will learn methods that will allow you to observe, interpret, analyze, graph and understand animal behavior with an emphasis on communication. Observe animals at the Brookfield Zoo, and learn how to apply your knowledge to develop classroom curriculum and student field studies. From the obvious roaring lion to the nearly undetectable infrasound used by elephants, from the bright colors of the male peacock to subtle postures of some species as individuals meet, animal communication is a fascinating topic! Observe animals and experience learning activities for your classroom. Please bring a sack lunch each day of the workshop. Upon registration, maps & driving directions will be e-mailed to participants.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60729
        Mon., 6/25, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Wed., 6/27, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Instructor: L. Petrik

      • SCE582AP | WS/Science ED/Topic/Biodiversity: Animals (1sh)

        In this workshop, participants will join Brookfield Zoo staff as they examine ecosystem, species and cellular levels of diversity. Activities will enable students to learn about causes of population decline, the effects of small population size on the survival of species. Students will observe animals, both local and exotic, that represent a wealth of biodiversity. Did you know that over half of the world’s biodiversity inhabits less than 2% of the world’s landmass? These fragile areas in our living world and the fascinating species that call them home need conservation. This class will expose you to the different hotspots around the world and the animal life that lives within as well as the challenges that face them. Learn how Brookfield Zoo is aiding these species and promoting conservation worldwide. Receive “Return to the Wild” video for your classroom. Please bring a sack lunch each day of the workshop. Upon registration, maps & driving directions will be e-mailed to participants.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60730
        Tue., 6/26, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Thur., 6/28, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Instructor: L. Petrik

      • SCE582BR | WS/Science ED/Topic/Species or Taxon: Invertebrates (3sh)

        For all grades. Course participants will join staff and scientists from Brookfield Zoo as they explore a species (such as giraffes) or taxon (comprised of related species) of animals. Topics of study will include: status in the wild, effects of human interactions, captive care and breeding programs, husbandry issues, research (both in situ and in captivity) projects, and methods for teaching about the species or taxon in the classroom or focused field trip setting. This class focuses on the characteristics of the major invertebrate orders. Participate in activities and experiments, develop grade-appropriate lessons, research a species, and observe invertebrate species. Participants will develop and Implement inquiry observations of selected animal species: bugs, sea creatures, butterflies and more. Visit animatronic and real bugs in Brookfield Zoo’s new summer exhibit, X-treme Bugs! Power point images of Brookfield Zoo’s great animals will be distributed. Please bring a sack lunch each day of the workshop. Upon registration, maps & driving directions will be e-mailed to participants.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60731
        Mon. thru Fri. 7/9 - 7/13, 8:30 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Instructor: L. Petrik

      • SCE582CI | WS/Science ED/Topic/Insects in the Elementary Classroom (1sh)

        For all grades. Students are fascinated by insects, so build on their enthusiasm by becoming an expert on the insects found in the prairies, wetlands, and woodlands of the Chicago wilderness. Become familiar with the characteristics of the major orders and learn to identify many of the common insects. Participate in activities and experiments, develop grade appropriate lessons, research a species, and enjoy insect related music, drama, literature, and art. Explore Brookfield Zoo’s latest exhibit: X-treme Bugs, where giant animatronic bugs mingle with visitors and real creatures can be viewed (and touched) in the insectariums. Zoo staff will introduce you to kind, friendly creatures and you will spend time planning and sharing curriculum ideas based on these amazing animals. Be the bug expert in your classroom this fall! Please bring a sack lunch each day of the workshop. Upon registration, maps & driving directions will be e-mailed to participants.

        Additional Details
        CRN: 60732
        Sat., 7/21, 9:00 AM—4:30 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Sun., 7/22, 11:00 AM—5:00 PM at Brookfield Zoo
        Instructor: L. Petrik

    • Chicago Botanic Garden

      1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022
      Do not register for the following class through National–Louis University. Register online at www.chicagobotanic.org

  • Online

    • CIN508 | Community Health: Nursing Practice, Theory and Contemporary Problems (3sh)

      This course consists of both classroom and practicum components. It offers nursing theory and experiences which are designed to assist the student in identifying the leading contemporary community health problems and evidence-based interventions. The focus of the practicum is on the role of the nurse in community settings and allows for nursing practice at all levels in the provision of holistic care. The student also observes in a variety of health agencies in order to acquire an understanding of the different functions and services offered in community agencies in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Prerequisites: none.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 31010
      Online: 4/2 thru 6/10
      Instructor: L. Gibbons
      Questions: linda.gibbons@nl.edu ext. 5373

    • CIW507 | Theories and Concepts of Health Education (3sh)

      This course focuses on recent developments in health education. The intent is first to examine health education as one of the core professions responsible for health promotion in a multitude of settings and second to look at health education as a movement toward multilevel intervention approaches targeting specific populations. The candidates will explore methods by which to expand the health knowledge of the individual/group assist learners in making self-directed health-related decisions. Emphasis will be placed on life-long learning as well as raising awareness for responsible social action as it relates to health. Prerequisites: none.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 31014
      Online: 4/2 thru 5/12
      Instructor: L. Gibbons
      Questions: linda.gibbons@nl.edu ext. 5373

    • TIE584Q | Google Applications in Education (1sh)

      During this hands-on workshop participants will learn and create projects and lessons using resources available free from Google. Students will learn strategies for incorporating iGoogle for content management, Google Earth, Google Maps, and Google Sky for inquiry-based projects, develop a customizable search engine for their classes, and create collaborative projects with Google Docs. Prerequisites: none.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 31000
      Online: 5/7 thru 5/18
      Instructor: L. Gray

    • CIC595B | Special Topics/Curriculum & Instruction/Death in Schools (1sh)

      Death enters the classroom, whether invited or not. As educators we have little knowledge of the ways in which children and adolescents understand death and how we can support them in their grieving. Students' academic lives can be greatly impacted by a significant death or trauma. Current events can exacerbate these issues. This workshop explores ways in which teachers can begin to deal with death and grief in a school context. The course consists of a two-week totally online experience. A final reflection paper is due one week after the end of the online session. Contact jmoore@nl.edu to complete on-line orientation as soon as you register.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 60600
      Online: Mon. 7/30 thru 8/12, final paper due 8/19
      Online Orientation required
      Instructor: J. Moore
      Questions: jmoore@nl.edu ext. 5192

    • TIE584J | WS/TIE/Curriculum Materials/Engaged Learning with Technology (1sh)

      Participants will explore ways in which technology can be integrated in the school curriculum to encourage students to become more actively engaged in their learning. This workshop will meet over a minimum of 15 clock hours. This workshop is suitable for students in any graduate program in the field of education. Prerequisites: At a minimum, participants must possess the basic computer skills to independently use a word processor, internet browser, email and search engine. Ability to use spreadsheet and presentation software would also be helpful. Contact craig.cunningham@nl.edu to complete online orientation as soon as you register. There is a required textbook, which will be available from the NLU online bookstore.

      Required Textbook: To Want to Learn: Insights and Provocations for Engaged Learning, Jackson Kytle, Macmillan Publishing, 2004, ISBN: 1403963339, 9781403963338

      Additional Details
      CRN: 60598
      Online: Mon. 7/16 thru 7/27
      Online Orientation required
      Instructor: C. Cunningham
      Questions: craig.cunningham@nl.edu

    • CIW510 | Curriculum Development and Evaluation in Health Education (3sh)

      This course focuses on the process of curriculum development in health education K-12 as a component of a coordinated school health program. The philosophies behind the coordinated school health program and the state are national standards for health education curricula are discussed. An overview of the ten content areas within a school health program is presented as they relate to the risk behaviors of today's society. The scope and sequence of the health curriculum is explored and the writing of goals and objectives practiced. Methods for evaluating health curricula and instruction are discussed. Prerequisites: CIW 507, CIC 503 or permission of health education program coordinator or C & I director.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 60592
      Online: Mon. 7/23 thru 8/24
      Instructor: L. Gibbons
      Questions: linda.gibbons@nl.edu ext. 5373

    • TIE584P | WS/TIE/Curriculum Materials/Technology for Online Learning (1sh)

      During this hands-on workshop, participants will discuss educational technology trends and standards, create an educational philosophy, and develop skills for using technology as an effective online communication tool for developing learning communities. Contact Randall.Hansen@nl.edu to complete online orientation as soon as you register.

      Additional Details
      CRN: 60599
      Online: Mon. 8/6 thru 8/19
      Online Orientation required
      Instructor: R. Hansen
      Questions: Randall.Hansen@nl.edu