Illinois version of PBS Learning Media

This past fall, WQPT and PBS stations across Illinois asked teachers in the state to volunteer their time to research a powerful new digitallibrary of free resources. During October and November, 66 teachers from 43 Illinois schools introduced the Illinois Edition of PBS Learning Media to their classrooms. Thirteen teachers and student teachers from the Quad City region participated in the pilot.

"We were seeking a few good teachers to give us feedback on this amazing and innovative learning tool," said Ana Kehoe, Director of Education and Outreach for WQPT, "and while the research from the University of Illinois has not yet been completed, the reactions from teachers so far have been extremely positive and enthusiastic."

Teachers are easily able to access 16,000 resources (and growing!) not only from PBS and NPR but also the Library of Congress, National Archives, NASA, National Geographic, great universities, museums and libraries. Because the resources—video and audio segments, flash interactive activities, mobile apps, photographs, essays—are available in lesson formats across all age groups from preschool through college, teachers can effortlessly enhance their curriculum.

"Their input is invaluable in helping us communicate to PBS what content is most effective in the classroom, what subjects need more content and what more might be needed to support state and national standards," continued Ana Kehoe.

When Esther Smith's class of early elementary students at Ericcson School in Moline was learning about tornados, she found a short video demonstrating the power of such a storm. "It's one thing to talk about the destructive force of wind," she said, "and another to demonstrate it. PBS Learning Media brings the real world right into the classroom."

Educators are welcome to sign up for the service
and don't forget, it's free!

WQPT Events Successful

Taco Tuesday: Mulligan's Taco Night was a great way for WQPT to raise dollars for educational outreach. Special thanks to Mulligan's Valley Pub and Royal Neighbors of America for making the event possible. And thanks to everyone who was able to join us.

WQPT Trivia Night: WQPT wishes to thank the students in the RPTA program at Western Illinois University for their hard work in organizing the 4th Annual WQPT Trivia night as a part of their class project. The event was a huge success and the students received real world experience in their chosen field. Our Administrative Assistant, and a Western Illinois University alumni, Amanda Bergeson served as liaison for the project.

A Class Apart Screening & Discussion

WQPT hosted a full house for a special screening and panel discussion on "A Class Apart" at the Moline Public Library. Alfred Ramirez served as the evenings moderator. He was joined by panelists Joe Terronez, Ernie Rodriquez and Henry Vargas.

The evening was sponsored by WQPT, Ascentra Credit Union, Moline Public Library, The Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Western Illinois University.

Learn more about : American Experience: A Class Apart.

Podcasting and WQPT

Earlier this year a WQPT viewer contacted us to tell us how much they enjoy The Cities. The viewer expressed how greatly they appreciated this local program, but often miss the live broadcast because they travel frequently.

In an effort to accommodate the every changing landscape of the way we deliver content, now offers episodes of The Cities via podcasts. These podcasts are available through iTunes and may download them and listen on your computer or any mobile device, including iPods, iPhones and iPads. If you're not familiar, podcast are audio files that may be downloaded at no cost.

We also feature online videos, so if you miss a televised episode, you can watch them whenever is most convenient for you. Check out The Cities or our YouTube page to watch episodes.

Podcasting and WQPT

Earlier this year a WQPT viewer contacted us to tell us how much they enjoy The Cities. The viewer expressed how greatly they appreciated this local program, but often miss the live broadcast because they travel frequently.

In an effort to accommodate the every changing landscape of the way we deliver content, now offers episodes of The Cities via podcasts. These podcasts are available through iTunes and may download them and listen on your computer or any mobile device, including iPods, iPhones and iPads. If you're not familiar, podcast are audio files that may be downloaded at no cost.

We also feature online videos, so if you miss a televised episode, you can watch them whenever is most convenient for you. Check out The Cities or our YouTube page to watch episodes.