Course Development
Bringing your course online may seem like a daunting task. There is certainly a learning curve associated with learning new technology and organizing your course in a way that is suitable for online instruction. Let us help you break it down!
Online course implementation check lists
Using Canvas
Canvas is Murray State University's Learning Management system. Additional learning platforms that ensure authentication of students may be used. Grades should be kept exclusively in Canvas.
Canvas Commons is a repository that allows instructors to export and import quizzes, assignments, modules and courses. This feature is now embedded into your Canvas panel on the left side of the interface. See the below screenshot for where to locate the Canvas Commons icon and the interface that will appear after you click on it. Whenever colleagues want to see an example of something you have in your online courses, you simply can share the item to Commons. If you need ideas, you now can search for them in Commons. It is easy to use.
Want to meet one-on-one?
Remember, the Faculty Development Center is always available to sit down with you as you set up your online course.
Bringing your course online
The design of your course can impact the online learning experience for both you and your students. Students need a well organized, structured course. Thoughtful and intentional planning are important when bringing your course online.
Plan your online course
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Ensure you are comfortable using Canvas. (Need help? Call the Faculty Development Center at 270.809.4595)
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Identify fellow online teachers and support resources.
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Build the initial structure for your online course. Gather your lessons and assignments and start organizing your due dates.
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Keep it simple at the beginning! You can always add content as you go.
Organizing your content in Canvas
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Consider uploading an introductory module to introduce students to online learning.
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Look at the ease of your navigation.
Content and pedagogy considerations
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Add opportunities for you to interact with the students and for students to interact with each other.
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Add media and other content. Consider varying the learning environment for greater engagement of students.
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Consider contacting your subject librarian for resources to use in your online course.
Before publishing your course
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Step back and assess your course in the Student View.
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Ask a colleague to review your course or contact the Faculty Development Center for a consultation. Sometimes being so involved in developing your course can make you blind to issues that could confuse your students!
Online course implementation checklists
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UNK eCampus Faculty Resources - the University of Nebraska has developed eCampus resources for developing a successful online course.
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Quality Online Course Initiative Rubric - The University of Illinois has developed a checklist to assist in the design or redesign of an online course.
Would you like faculty members of the Online Champions group or the Faculty Development Center to review your course? E-mail msu.online@murraystate.edu for more information.