Experience the Power of Learning Again: UB's Graduate School of Education Launches New Push for Lifelong Learners

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The University at Buffalo's Graduate School of Education has launched a series of new one-credit mini courses designed to reach educators and teachers interested in advancing their training while re-acquainting themselves with the practical and personal power of continuing education.

The 23 new courses, all shorter than standard three-credit-hour classes, cover such life skills as grief counseling for students and professional-development topics like "Creating Dynamic Online Spaces for Teaching and Learning."

"Besides advancing your professional expertise, these new courses also are examples of how much fun learning can be," says Mary H. Gresham, dean of the Graduate School of Education. "They offer a chance to meet others who are interested in the same things you are and a chance to explore ideas with others.

"Our faculty members are known nationally and internationally for their expertise. Many are practitioners with extensive experience in their fields," she adds. "We have former presidents, superintendents and leaders from a variety of sectors in education who teach for us."

The courses begin in August and are offered throughout the fall. Detailed course descriptions, along with tuition and financial aid information, are available at http://www.gse.buffalo.edu/ccpe or by calling Radhika Suresh, assistant dean for enrollment management, at 716-645-2110.

The courses span a wide array of educational topics -- from teaching through the use of popular media such as film, television and the Internet, to how administrators and teachers can best respond to crises in their schools. UB's Graduate School of Education is hoping to attract teachers, counselors, educators, librarians and information specialists who are seeking continuing and professional education. Others with a passion for lifelong learning are also welcome.

"The availability of online courses and courses taught off-campus make it more convenient and easier for those who plan to take them," says Suresh.

Students taking these mini courses do not have to be accepted or enrolled in a GSE program. They are targeted at those who are not currently attending UB. Some of these mini courses are offered completely online, enabling people to study from the comfort of their homes. Others are offered off campus at several locations in the community. The non-traditional fashion in which these courses are presented is an attempt to serve people whose schedules and obligations make it difficult for them to continue their education -- through a formal program or in an on-campus setting.

William C. Barba, director of the higher education graduate programs, says these courses are the latest evidence of UB's commitment to fulfill its mission of service to the region. It's also an opportunity for people with profound influence on children's lives to make a connection with educators at the leading edge of their fields, academic professionals with grants and intellectual support to provide the best guidance available.

Part of a campaign called "Experience the Power of Learning: Again," the new list of courses aims to make educators and those working with young people more current and capable, and at the same time, reawaken the excitement of discovery and community that comes with the power of learning.

"Education is always useful, whether to improve your professional skills, enhance your resume and improve attractiveness to potential employers, or just to become a better informed person about topics you are interested in," says Gresham.

The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than 28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.