Posts
Here are two short articles by Dr. Kathleen P. King on designing successful online courses.
The most frequent question teachers ask Kathleen about online courses is "Where do I begin to design online learning?" This is an excellent question because it demonstrates the need to contemplate planning and designing online learning rather than haphazard construction. The "seat of the pants" approach has lead to many confusing and unsuccessful distance learning course designs.
Designing Successful Online Courses, Part 1
Five steps to planning and designing your online courses.
Step 1: Determine A Livable Phase Approach.
The Phase Approach begins with encouraging faculty to recognize that designing their online course is only Phase One of their efforts. By organizing work progress into Phase Two, Phase Three, etc, it frees instructors from feeling that everything has to be accomplished in their first development effort. Especially if teachers do not have a full-time instructional design team, progressive development is liberating and reassuring. Any part of a course can be addressed first, especially in a redesign: content sections, sequence, or specific assignments. Therefore in Step 1, determine which aspect of the course to redesign first (perhaps the final project, assignments, discussion, or assessment). Then decide which to do second, third, etc. This approach becomes the preliminary plan and can be changed as needs arise.
Read more...
Designing Successful Online Courses - Part 2
Five steps to planning and designing your online courses.
Step 1 Tap the Power of Peer Learning.
Online learning environments provide an unparalleled opportunity to access the benefits of peer learning. As described, students can increase their understanding by communicating and exploring content with one another. It is important to use this opportunity to encourage peer learning to inform the dialogue and course discussions (Conrad & Donaldson, 2004; Luppicini, 2007). Rather than a black and white world with only faculty providing answers, instructors who encourage peer learning can develop a critical inquiry and learning community which respects and values diverse views.
Read more...
About Dr. King
Dr. King is a dynamic, interactive keynoter, public speaker and accomplished author who invigorates and empowers audiences on a variety of topics. Widely recognized with professional awards for her innovative publications, research and service to the field, she thrives on working with professionals, educators, and other adult learners in all contexts. She specializes in guiding faculty in their professional development journeys. From designing and facilitating distance learning, navigating the tenure process, meeting the needs of 21st century learners, and "bringing transformative learning to life."Read more...
Source: Dr. Kathleen P. King - EzineArticles.com Expert Author
