71 11. Course Map and Alignment Review
1. Introduction
Purpose of the Workbook
The purpose of this workbook is to help guide you through asynchronous, online course design. These principles hold true for most modalities, however, this workbook is specifically tailored for asynchronous course design.
This workbook was originally developed as a companion for the Online Course Design Bootcamp, however, as the demand for online courses and affordable, flexible, accredited college programs are in higher demand, there is a clear need to expand this workbook.
2. General Course Information and Planning
Purpose: The following section gathers essential course details and encourages reflection on course structure decisions.
Course Title:
Instructor Name:
Course Design Start Date:
Course Design End Date:
Preferred Course Structure: (e.g., Weekly, Thematic, Chronological)
3. Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes
Define what students will learn and why it matters. Connect outcomes to real-world skills.
Course Learning Outcomes:
(List the top 3-5 learning outcomes. How do these outcomes prepare students for success?)
Module Learning Objectives:
(Provide objectives for each module. How do these objectives support your course outcomes and scaffold learning?)
4. Lesson Planning and Module Development
Structuring Lessons and Organizing Course Content
Purpose: Organize content into meaningful modules with clear objectives and activities that align with the course’s learning outcomes.
Activity: Divide course content into modules and assign learning objectives.
5. Instructional Materials and Resources
Purpose: Design meaningful content that supports learning objectives.
Instructional Material Selection: List instructional materials and their alignment with objectives.
Considerations for Accessibility: Apply UDL and accessibility principles.
6. Assessments and Learning Activities
Design assessments that align with course objectives and promote student engagement.
Types of Assessments: Include formative and summative assessments, authentic assessments.
Alignment Check: Ensure assessments reflect learning objectives and course outcomes.
7. Canvas Course Build and Review
Building a Course Module in Canvas
Objective: Use Canvas to create and organize course materials, ensuring accessibility and alignment.
Accessibility Tools: Use UDOIT and the RCE Accessibility Checker.
8. Technology and E-Learning Tools
Purpose: Integrate technology to enhance engagement.
Preferred E-Learning Elements: List interactive elements like quizzes, videos, and discussion boards.
Technology Tools: Describe tools that support learning outcomes.
9. Grading and Feedback Strategies
Purpose: Provide transparent, growth-oriented rubrics.
Feedback Mechanisms: Consider written, video, and audio feedback options.
Linking Feedback: Connect feedback to course and module objectives for continuous improvement.
10. Reflective Prompts for Faculty
Purpose: Encourage reflective practice.
Reflect on how the course design encourages inquiry-based learning and critical thinking.
Community Building: Strategies for fostering student engagement and motivation in an asynchronous environment.
11. Course Map and Alignment Review
Purpose: Ensure coherence and alignment of course modules.
Organizing Modules: Structure each module to include objectives, materials, and assessments.
Alignment Check: Verify that each module aligns with learning goals and instructional principles.
