Tips for Designing Online Courses

by Karin Kirk, Science Education Resource Center, Carleton College Jump down to communicating course content | using projects and case studies | references Online course design is rooted in the same solid principles of face-to-face teaching, but requires additional considerations. Start with the same pedagogic principles of overall course design, such as the Cutting Edge course design philosophy. Set out goals for the course: At the end of the course, I want my students to be able to... Set skills goals such as working in groups, developing quantitative skills, or improve writing skills Choose content to achieve overarching goals Develop a course plan That said, even though the course topic and goals may be the same as a face-to-face course, the course layout, pacing, content delivery and assignments will all be tailored for online delivery. Traditional lecturing is replaced by a variety of multimedia communication tools. Options for communicating course content References Resources

http://serc.carleton.edu/NAGTWorkshops/online/design.html

Guide to Online Course Design [INFOGRAPHIC] Today there are a countless number of tips and tricks when it comes to effective online course design, that it can become confusing where to start. These theories can range from actionable steps to philosophical diatribes, both of which provide their use, but equally are confusing as to where to begin. Enter the “Guide to Online Course Design” infographic by MindFlash. This infographic outlines some of the key components to creating an online course. Naturally, not every item is an absolute necessary (many of which will depend on your needs), but they all do provide value for your online courses. More than ever, it is important that you encourage online interaction and feedback mechanisms for the students in the online courses.

Online Course Design: 13 Strategies for Teaching in a Web-based Distance Learning Environment Get Course Design Tips for Enhancing Online Teaching and Learning Good online course design begins with a clear understanding of specific learning outcomes and ways to engage students, while creating activities that allow students to take some control of their learning. It also requires a little extra effort upfront to minimize two of the most common frustrations of online learning: 1. confusing course organization (how course elements are structured within the course); and 2. unclear navigation (what links or buttons are used to access these elements).

Ten Best Practices for Teaching Online J. V. Boettcher, Ph.D. Designing for Learning 2006 - 2013