Computer Education/Distance Learning

Distance Learning

COSER 438

The OHM BOCES Distance Learning Service is a cornerstone for the future development of expanded educational opportunities in our region. The service exists upon a fiber-optic telecommunication network with the capacity to link all our component school districts, the BOCES complex and area colleges. Linkages with regional networks, other states and even other countries allow us to make possible enhanced educational opportunities while promoting interconnectedness and teamwork among students and teachers alike.

Equipment, Support & Maintenance

COSER 438.01

OHM BOCES provides customized solutions for a variety of distance learning implementations, ranging from classrooms to conference rooms to lecture halls and in sizes that vary from small huddle rooms to the most adaptive future-ready classrooms. Once equipped, the rooms that have transformed are programmed to connect to other sites easily and efficiently. As needed, our BOCES technicians provide responsive support to diagnose and solve any technical issues or requests that arise.

Mandarin Chinese Courses

COSER 438.03

Daily, synchronous instruction is provided to students in participating school districts via the Interactive Video Courses Service. Chinese Language and Culture courses provide students, from across New York State, with the opportunity to learn Mandarin Chinese while also being introduced to Chinese history and culture. The Mandarin Chinese program has two distinct pathways for students:

• The High School Elective courses in Mandarin Chinese afford students the opportunity to study Mandarin Chinese as elective courses for up to two years. Mandarin Chinese elective courses are dual-credit courses with Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) offering up to 12 credits, and can be completed either independently of their study in other language(s) OR to meet the minimum requirement of one credit in a World Languages course to earn a New York State Diploma.
   
• The Mandarin Chinese Course Sequence provides up to seven years of New York State and national, standards-based instruction in Mandarin Chinese. Students begin their language sequence in grade 6 or 7. Level 3 and 4 Mandarin Chinese courses are dual-credit courses with Mohawk Valley Community College offering students as many as 12 college credits.

American Sign Language Courses

COSER 438.04

Students across New York State are afforded the opportunity to study American Sign Language for up to four years via OHM’s American Sign Language (ASL) program. As part of our Interactive Video Course program, students in our ASL program receive synchronous, daily instruction. Each course level includes introduction to new vocabulary, lessons in grammar, Deaf history and lessons in the culture of Deaf people. Students who advance to ASL Level 3 and 4 will earn dual credit for successful completion of their coursework.

Languages Other Than English (LOTE)

COSER 502.04

The LOTE Curriculum Program serves to produce Checkpoint examinations for World Language teachers in our region and around New York State. Since the June 2018 examinations, the OHM Checkpoint B examinations have been approved by NYSED for use in the Multiple Pathways to Graduation. Checkpoint B examinations in French, Italian and Spanish are created each January. Checkpoint A and B examinations in ASL, Chinese, French, Italian and Spanish are created and administered in participating schools around the state each June. The creation of each examination is BOCES-facilitated and teacher led. Professional development in support of these examinations is offered via monthly World Languages Network meetings.