Getting Started

The first step in becoming a Microsoft Innovative Educator is to join the Microsoft Partners in Learning Network (PIL), a global community of educators dedicated to improving student learning worldwide.
Benefits to your membership in this community include: 

• Access to FREE software and tools to engage students in the learning.
• Access to hundreds of learning activities and tutorials created by educators.
• Opportunities to share ideas and participate in the global conversation on education and technology. 

Do this:

1. Go to the Microsoft Partners in Learning Network @ http://www.pil-network.com
2. Click on the JOIN button in the upper right corner. 
• Sign in using your Windows Live ID (e.g. Hotmail address) if you already have one 
• If not, you may click Create One to create a Windows Live ID, or 
• Sign in using your Google Account
3. You will be prompted to Create Your Profile; if not, pull down the arrow near your name to View Profile.  

4. Click on the About tab for an overview of Microsoft PIL. 

5. Explore the Home page:  Spotlights, New Tutorials, Popular Discussions, Stay Connected (Twitter & Facebook feeds), Learning Activities, TeachTec Blog.
6. Explore the other TABS:   
• For Schools
• Professional Development - Earn Badges, Teaching With Technology (FREE online learning curriculum), Windows in the Classroom (FREE video seminars)
• Community - Discussions, Find a Member, Find an Organization
• Hot Topics
• Resources - Free Tools, Tutorials, Learning Activities
7. RESOURCES Tab: Explore some of the Free Tools for Educators, and associated Tutorials and Learning Activities. Please note:
• One Note and Windows Movie Maker ARE included on the BCPS computer image. 
• Windows 360 is NOT included on the BCPS computer image.
• Resources for Microsoft Office are for Office 2010;  we have Office 2007 on the BCPS image.