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In-Service Distance Training for Teachers of Physics
Ovidiu Florin Caltun, Alexandru Stancu
Faculty of Physics, “A.I.Cuza” University, 11 Blvd Carol I, 6600 Iasi, Romania



GIREP Seminar
2003


E - learning can be an extension of the initial training that a newly qualified teacher acquires on graduation. It is a long-term process that aims at developing and refining classroom experience to advanced levels of professionalism as well as establishing goals and landmarks in one's professional development. Each teacher can define his own needs and make decisions accordingly. Community and educational institutions also have their role in shaping the evolution of a national educational system. Therefore a teacher needs to be well informed about national priorities in education and the roles of teachers in achieving them.These training courses consist of modules organized as: long-term programs (240-280 hours), medium-term programs (90-120 hours), short-term programs (40-60 hours).These programs are accredited for four years and finalized with a Certificate of Professional Competences. The teachers of Physics can choose between a two-year, a one-year or a six-month program. According to governmental regulations any of these options must lead to a minimum number of the required credits (90).The programs suggested by the Faculty of Physics and the Faculty of Educational Science has in view three directions in a teacher's training. The first one must ensure that teachers acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for achieving the highest academic standards in their subjects. This module consists of sub-themes of 10, 20, 30 hours. They offer extended insights into some chapters recommended by the National Curriculum Committee.Another direction of the course aims at planning, organizing and assessing the teaching process. The module offers sub-themes of 10, 20 and 30 hours. The Faculty of Educational Sciences, with which we work in partnership, offers modules of 10 hours dedicated to up-to-date topics on pedagogy, psychology as well as educational and sociological politics. The program is supported by an electronic Learning Management System, which represents a modern way of learning known as e-Learning. The trainees are sent material by e-mail and are assisted and guided by a tutor assigned for each module.