PDPs
This course contains content needed to fulfill the DESE Individual Professional Development plan requirement of at least 15 PDPs in a content area of training related to renewal of licensure. Fitchburg State University’s Center for Professional Studies is a DESE-approved PDP provider.
Course Description
This course is designed for educators who are ready to move beyond the basics of generative AI and emerging technologies. Participants will explore how to design innovative, ethical, and impactful learning experiences that leverage AI tools to support teaching and elevate student learning. Through hands-on exploration using a variety of strategies, tools, and real-world applications, educators will deepen their understanding of AI’s role in education, develop classroom-ready strategies, and build leadership capacity for guiding others in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to do the following - aligned to the ISTE Standards for Educators:
- Critically evaluate current and emerging generative AI tools to determine their instructional relevance, ethical implications, and potential for educational equity. (Learner, Citizen, Analyst)
- Design and implement innovative, AI-enhanced learning experiences that foster creativity, deeper thinking, and personalized student pathways. (Designer, Facilitator)
- Apply AI tools to differentiate instruction, offer formative feedback, and address the needs of diverse learners. (Facilitator; Analyst)
- Learn how generative AI can be used as a coach to help solve real-world problems. (Facilitator, Collaborator)
- Model ethical and responsible use of AI technologies, including considerations around algorithmic bias, data privacy, and digital citizenship. (Citizen)
- Reflect on instructional practice and create a personalized action plan for the meaningful integration of AI and emerging technologies. (Learner, Leader)
- Best practices in working with AI chatbots and making sure all experiences have human intelligence at the forefront. (Learner)
- Learn how generative AI is rapidly transforming our lives, driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and reshaping learning. (Learner, Leader)
Prework: Emailed out on October 20th.
Dates: October 27; Nov. 3 and Nov. 10, 2025
Mode: Synchronous/online in Google Meet with additional asynchronous assignments specified in syllabus.
Synchronous session dates:
- October 27, 4 - 6 p.m.
- November 3, 4 - 6 p.m.
- November 10, 4 - 6 p.m.
Synchronous: 6 hours Asynchronous: 9 hours Total contact hours: 15 hours
Registration
Registration deadline is Oct. 17, 2025
Cost for 15 PDPs: $275
Cost for 1 graduate credit: $347 (additional work required)
CRN: TBD (15 PDPs)
CRN: TBD (1 Grad Credit)