1. (a) The sponsor "program" must clearly state in the course materials, registration materials and advertisements related to the course, the objectives, prerequisites, experience level, content, advance preparation, teaching method(s), and recommended credit hours. Sponsors are responsible for distributing accurate information about their programs.

   1. (1) The stated learning objectives should clearly communicate the specific concepts and skills the program will transfer to persons completing it.
   2. (2) All programs must clearly identify what prerequisites are necessary for enrollment, so a potential participant can determine whether they are qualified to participate in and benefit from the program. If no prerequisite is necessary a statement to this effect must be made.

2. (b) The program developer must organize the program around the stated learning objectives. The course materials must be periodically reviewed to assure that they are accurate and consistent with currently accepted standards relating to the program's subject matter.

   1. (1) The program developer should provide the instructor with separate materials that emphasize sections of the course that need reinforcement, if appropriate;
   2. (2) The program developer should provide materials for the participants that explain the learning objective in detail.
3. (c) Instructors must be qualified both with respect to program content and teaching methods used. Sponsors should evaluate the performance of instructors at the conclusion of each program to determine their suitability for continuing to serve as instructors.
4. (d) Course material should be reviewed by a qualified party other than the preparer(s) to ensure compliance with the provisions of these sections and with high standards of content and instructional design. In case of short or once only programs, more reliance may be placed on the competence of the presenter.
5. (e) All programs must provide for some means to evaluate both the competence of the instructor and the course material. Refer to §523.141 of this title (relating to Evaluation).
6. (f) Self-study programs must conform to the requirements outlined in §523.102(c)(2) of this title (relating to CPE Purpose and Definitions).
7. (g) Sponsors are responsible for ensuring the participants register their attendance during the program. The sponsor is responsible for assigning the appropriate number of credit hours for participants, including reduced hours for those participants who arrive late or leave early. Refer to §523.142 of this title (relating to Time Credit Measurement).
8. (h) Sponsors must comply with all CPE rules including §523.143 of this title (relating to Sponsor's Record).

Source Note:The provisions of this §523.140 adopted to be effective April 7, 2004, 29 TexReg 3482; amended to be effective February 17, 2008, 33 TexReg 1114.