FAQ: (Frequently Asked Questions)
How long do the workshops last?
The duration of each workshop is 3 weeks.
How much do the workshops cost?
The workshops are free to caregivers who are residents of Washington State. For caregivers residing outside of Washington State, the courses are $40 each. This is a nominal fee as our workshops are highly interactive and instructor led. We value interaction and discussion and believe that you, as caregivers, benefit the most from your interaction with the instructor as well as fellow caregivers. Register Here!
How many training hours do these workshops offer?
Each workshop provides 6 training hours, which can be used to meet state licensing requirements. Please note: these are NOT credit hours. You may be interested in Continuing Education Units (CEU's) for these workshops. CEU's cost $20 per workshop and provide certification of training. For more information on CEU's, please email Renee Phoenix or call (253) 840-8452.
How do I register?
Registration is done online through our website. On the left hand side of this screen, you will see a menu. Click on "Registration Form" and you will automatically be directed to our registration page.
I don't feel comfortable providing personol information. Is this a secure site?
The registration site is the only secure site on our page. When you click on "Registration Form", you will see in the address bar that it says "https://" as opposed to the traditional "http://". That "s" indicates that you are using a secure server when you are entering your personal information.
Do I have to take the "Foster Parent Skills Series-Online Learning" workshop?
If you are new to online learning or have never taken an online class, then "yes"- you will need to take this course prior to any other online workshops. This course prepares you for success in your future workshops. If you have taken online courses before, you need not take this workshop as it is only an introductory course to the online learning experience.
Do I have to be logged in at a specific time each day?
No. The workshops are designed to meet the needs of caregivers. This means you can login to the class at a time that is convenient to your schedule (during a lunch break, while the kids are at school, or in your pajamas while the kids are asleep).
Can I complete the workshop sooner than 3 weeks?
No. The workshops revolve around student discussion and interaction. By assuring that everyone is on the same schedule and will complete the course at the same time, we are ensuring that all students will be given the same opportunities to have their questions answered, to reply to their fellow students, and to meet all of the learning objectives of the workshop.
How do I log into my Blackboard classroom?
When you registered for your workshop, you should have received a confirmation email indicating your username and password. If you did not, it may be in your junk/spam email filter. Please call (253) 964-9458 or email Jennifer King with the Distance Learning Office for assistance in locating your username and password.
My username/password is not working!
Make sure you are going to the correct website: Pierce College Blackboard. When you enter in your username, make sure to enter it exactly as it appears in your email confirmation, including the "ws_". Without this, you will not be able to access your workshop(s). If you have any questions or need any assistance, please do not hesitate to call (253) 964-6458 or email Jennifer King.
I registered, but when I login I don't see any classes. Am I missing something?
The answer is most likely "no". Online classrooms open 1 week prior to the actual start date of the workshop. This allows you time to explore the course and navigate the online classroom. Keep in mind that the workshop does not begin until the start date listed. For example, if you register for workshops starting August 14, you will not be able to access them until August 7.
What is required of me to complete the workshops?
It is expected that you will complete all of your weekly assignments and contribute to the online discussion board as well as complete the exit evaluation and your exit examiniation in the third week of the workshop.
Where is my certificate?
Your certificate can be found in the Digital Dropbox of your Blackboard classroom. Your certificate will only be generated after you have completed your exit exam and your course evaluation.
Your certificate will be sent to your Digital Dropbox in the Blackboard classroom. You will be notified by your instructor when your certificate is available.
