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E-Courses | IL T&TA Center

The Independent Living Training & Technical Assistance (IL T&TA) Center is a national resource center funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and they are excited to share three complementary E-courses that build a strong foundation for effective State Independent Living Council (SILC) participation. Taken together, these courses move from understanding SILC roles, to strengthening leadership skills, to applying that knowledge through statewide planning, making an ideal learning sequence for new and current SILC members.

All courses are self-paced with interactive content and can be finished in under 75 minutes. At the end of every course, you will have an opportunity to take a 10-question assessment (80% to pass) and receive a certificate from the IL T&TA Center!

Together, these courses provide a clear progression, from understanding SILC authority, to strengthening leadership and governance skills, to applying those skills in statewide planning, helping you contribute confidently and effectively to the Independent Living network.

E-Course: State Independent Living Council (SILC) Fundamentals

This course provides an overview of the purpose, authority, and responsibilities of Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs). You’ll learn how SILCs fit within the Independent Living Network, why consumer control is central to their work, and how federal law shapes what SILCs must and must not do.

You’ll learn how to:

Explain the Independent Living philosophy and how it guides SILC work
Identify SILC legal authority, duties, and limitations
Describe the role of SILCs within the statewide IL Network

Course Details:

45-60 minutes
10-question assessment
Certificate with a score of 80% or higher

E-Course: Becoming an Effective State Independent Living Council Member

This course builds on the basics by focusing on how SILC members work together effectively. You’ll learn practical skills for governance, communication, meetings, advocacy, financial oversight, and accountability so you can contribute confidently and responsibly.

You’ll learn how to:

Understand SILC member and leadership roles
Apply best practices for governance, ethics, and decision-making
Strengthen communication, collaboration, and accountability skills

Course Details:

60-75 minutes
10-question assessment
Certificate with a score of 80% or higher

E-Course: State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) Fundamentals

This course explains what the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) is, why it matters, and how it guides statewide Independent Living priorities. You’ll learn how the SPIL is developed, used, and evaluated, and how collaboration and public input shape its success.

You’ll learn how to:

Explain the purpose and structure of the SPIL

Describe the roles of SILCs, CILs, and the DSE in SPIL development

Identify how needs assessment and public input inform statewide planning

Course Details:

45-60 minutes
10-question assessment
Certificate with a score of 80% or higher