The Online Learning Community allows teachers to discuss concepts addressed in the videos, learn how colleagues approach similar teaching situations, share classroom experiences, and participate in a professional development experiences designed to bring about meaningful growth. These online learning communities will use Web-based forums software that will be accessible through any Web browser. In other words, teachers with Web access will not need any special software in order to participate. In some areas, local PBS stations organize online learning communities that include discussion of local standards and frameworks. In addition, national listservs exist for elementary, middle, and high school educators.
Discussions are both formal and informal and moderated by mathematics professionals.
Moderators build structured discussion threads around video segments featured on the Web site. The listservs provide opportunities to communicate with other educators, any time covenient to them. Technology takes the learning to the professional. Previous participants have indicated they spent about two hours a week and gain the information they needed. A variety of enrollment options allow teachers to choose the level of involvement and cost that are most appropriate for their needs.