Designed for kindergarten and first grade teachers this course combines research, theory and practice with reading skills using the child-centered theme of The Gingerbread Man. The course is offered in two formats: traditional or online. In the traditional format, students take the course independently and work offline. The online version works via the course website which points participants to current research and articles and a Web Discussion Board for continuing discussions with other participants and the instructor. Fees for traditional format include tuition and materials; the online version includes additional $50 for online instructional fees.