The QTL™ program gives participants new insights into educational theory and technology integration, with the primary objective being improved student achievement. But some teachers who have completed QTL™ Cycles say they've received an additional personal benefit - a boost in their efforts to win National Board Certification.

Deborah Goodman of North Carolina's Edenton-Chowan school district has earned her National Board Certification.

Deborah Goodman, who teaches a multi-grade (K-2) classroom in North Carolina's Edenton-Chowan school district, credits the QTL™ program and instructor Susan Herring with giving her the edge that helped her get certification.

"QTL's model is a great example of good - no, excellent - classroom management," she says. "I recommend all teachers go through the program before going through the National Board process."

Goodman says the immediate impact of participating was gaining "good, sound educational practices" that she could implement in her classroom right away. Incorporating learning theories such as multiple intelligences, learning styles and constructivism led to great increases in her students' critical skills - like communication, teamwork and problem solving.

"I immediately observed higher student engagement, increased peer collaboration and a greater responsibility for learning when completing these activities with my students," she says, "especially among my lower performing students. It helped me to become more of a facilitator in a student-centered classroom where my students used technology as a tool for learning so as to promote independent learners and collaborative projects."

Goodman was not alone. Several of her peers in Northeastern North Carolina also used their QTL™ experiences in applying for - and obtaining - National Board Certification.