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Getting Started in the eEmpowerment Zone

Welcome to the eEmpowerment Zone. The eEmpowerment Zone (eZone) is a comprehensive, web-based e-learning and professional development center that is designed for a far-reaching community of learners: pre-service and in-service teachers, students, higher education faculty, administrators, and library media specialists. Follow the simple steps below to get started.

  1. Go to the eZone [http://empowermentzone.tamu.edu/].
    Note - throughout the eZone, you can get to eZone Home page (front) by clicking once on the eZone link at the top of the menu to the left. As you can see several other pages can be accessed from this side menu like My eAssessment, Welcome to the eZone etc.

    [You must be a registered user of the eZone to access the eZone modules. You will receive eZone login information from your community's facilitator. Or to find out more information about registering for eZone modules, contact us at eeducation@coe.tamu.edu]
  2. Login to the eZone.
  3. Click on Enter the Zone to access the eZone modules. There are three options for accessing eZone modules:
    • Accelerate Online & Options Program Strand
    • Portfolio Development Strand
    • Full eZone Module Directory
  4. To begin a module, click Start Module. Each time you return to the module, you will be given a prompt to continue where you left off (provided you are logged in each time)
  5. To view a description of the module before taking it, select View Details. This will provide you with learning object details including a brief description.
  6. You can view your progress across all eZone modules that you are enrolled in at any time, by going to the My eAssessment page.

By logging in each time you enter the eZone, you will be able to take full advantage of all eZone resources and features:
  • You will have access to all of your eAccount information
  • You will get feedback as you advance through some of the eZone modules that require grading
  • You will receive updates when new resources are added to the eZone.

In addition to completing modules from a program strand, you can access other features like the eZone Quarterly, to explore the latest NewsFlash, Spotlight Resource, or Powerful Practice features. The table below includes descriptions of several key eZone features.

Important Technical Notes
Visit the eZone Support Page and complete the eZone Test Page for New Users, this will insure that your computer has been properly prepared for successful eZone use. Also, access eZone tutorials on the eZone Support Page like the My eAssesment Tutorial to learn more about keeping up with your progress as you complete eZone modules.

For optimal results, the eEmpowerment Zone resources are best viewed in 1024 X 768 pixel resolution. The latest versions of Internet Explorer and Netscape browsers will include RealPlayer and Macromedia Shockwave Player, otherwise they will need to be installed, as some eZone modules require these plug-ins. Free versions of the players are available at http://www.real.com and http://sdc.shockwave.com/shockwave/download/ respectively. Also, cookies should be enabled in your browser, this will enable full functionality of the module feedback prompts.

Descriptions of eZone Features
eZone Feature Description/Function
eZone Modules eZone Modules include hands-on or interactive online instructional content, tutorials or project-based learning activities. Modules incorporate feedback prompts, and are designed around ongoing needs sensing and state and national standards.
My eAssessment Administration and Reporting System The My eAssessment reporting system enables students and instructors to track student progress remotely. My eAssessment pages include student progress data on module enrollment, completion and assessment. Administration and Facilitator Pages include information on students, learning objects, overall module progress, student portfolios and customized news submission.
ePortfolios The ePortfolio feature in the eZone allows interns to submit various classroom artifacts and then their web-based portfolios are dynamically or automatically updated, without requiring formal web development. Intern portfolios serve as a resource for teaching interns to share their professional goals, interests, and classroom artifacts with supervisors, mentor teachers and other interns in their cohort over the course of the year.
Discussion Boards Discussion Boards were set up in the eZone to facilitate ongoing support and communication among students, instructors, or interns and supervisors. All Options/Accelerate students should subscribe to their Mailing List. Whenever a new article appears in the Discussion Board, you can have a copy of that article emailed to you. Articles are compiled in digest format and emailed daily.
NewsFlash
[eZone Quarterly]		 This feature highlights state and some national educational technology news, professional development and funding announcements and initiatives.
Spotlight Resource
[eZone Quarterly]
This feature spotlights an educational resource or application, many resources are nominated or created by educators or educational technology leaders.
Powerful Practice
[eZone Quarterly]
This feature highlights what model K-20 educators are doing. How are educational technologies impacting teaching and learning in a wealth of situations? Exemplary curricula, diversity responsive practice, and mentor programs are highlighted.
Resource Media Center The resource media center is designed as a dynamic shared resource center for communities of learners that include pre-service and in-service teachers, administrators, library media specialists, higher education faculty, parents and students. eZone community members are encouraged to nominate and rate resources.
Break Room The break room is designed to give users a space to freely explore diverse web-resources, outside of structured instructional activities. The eZone's community of learners can take breaks in between modules or at any time, to freely experience the breadth, depth and creative power of the web.

eEmpowerment Zone & Integrated ePortfolio System was designed by Trina Davis and Arlen Strader from the eEducation Group at Texas A&M University. For more information contact tdavis@coe.tamu.edu.