November 3, 2010

MASTDE Modules: Strategies for Enhancing Delivery of

Personnel Preparation and Professional Development for Rural Special Education

Tanner JonesSue Byrd Steinweg

Laurie GodwinDavid Jones

Sandra Hopfengardner WarrenEast Carolina University

http://mast.ecu.edu

Ahoy!!

Technology Used

The MAST project uses a variety of technologies:•Media presentation via streaming.•Web-based programming to test readers’ understanding of material.•Integration of PowerPoint to enable module authors to generate content and media.•Template systems allowing a shorter development time and easier updating.

The Modules Addressing Special Education and Teacher Education (MAST) have been created to focus on important topics in special education teacher preparation courses and professional development activities.

MAST and The Web

The MAST project utilizes a web-based approach to provide a centralized location for 36 different modules authored by a national group of content specialists. The main site, http://mast.ecu.edu, offers a rich array of free training resources to university faculty, public school professional development specialists, practicing teachers, and teacher candidates. Materials contained in these modules build on research and training investments by the U.S. Department of Education. 

Structure of ModulesThere are 5 parts to a module:• Anchors Aweigh (Introduction) • Set the Course (Background)• Plan of the Day (Content)• Drop Anchor (Summary & Feedback) • Facilitator’s Guide

Why the Nautical Theme?

Early sailors used the compass rose to keep their vessels on course as they were exploring new paths in life. Today’s special educators are “21st century sailors” who are exploring new territory on a quest for identifying the most effective ways to prepare students for life in a constantly changing, technology driven society. Our teachers are sailors whose voyage can be guided by the compass rose – always pointing to the North Star to guide one’s journey.

Mast Home Page: Users to the site are greeted with this page.

Module Navigation: Ease of user navigation was a large concern for the development team. Therefore the user will find multiple ways

to navigate this site including a graphical interface.

Module: Each of the 36 modules has the same basic layout . This provides users with a consistent method for accessing information

and completing the modules.

Making the Grade: Upon completing each module, the user can take a self assessment which tests understanding of module content.

Knowledge Feedback: After completing each module quiz, a page presents the user with feedback identifying incorrect answers and

directing them to the module area addressing the concept.

Module Certificate: After completing a module quiz with a grade of 80% or better, the user is issued a certificate providing confirmation

of module completion.

“The goal of the site is to provide this information in an intuitive and visually

pleasing manner.”