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Online Teaching 101

Intentional Course Design

Designing Your Course

What is the best way to organize my course online?

Take a moment to plan your D2L course shell structure and course activities to align with the student learning outcomes for the course. Here are some best practices to apply in your planning:

Where do I put my course content?

Course materials in D2L are organized into modules that are located in the Course Content tab. Watch this video for an overview of the Content page in D2L or visit VTAC's Create Modules and Submodules in Content page.

 

 

LSC-M Faculty Tips

  • It is best to arrange your course content into modules organized chronologically so that instructional components, such as files, assignments, discussions, and quizzes, are arranged in the order that students need to access and complete them.
  • Instructional materials (textbook, software, videos, etc.) should be delivered in an organized relevant manner and aligned with the course’s outcomes (student learning outcomes/ core objectives).
  • Name files, discussions, assignments, etc. intuitively for students. “Syllabus” is better than “Sp.20.Johnson.2301” for example.
  • Add a “Help” box or module with links and contact information for VLAC, OTS (1-866-614-5014 or Online@LoneStar.edu), and academic support services, such as the library and online tutoring services.
  • Add a personal touch by using the description area in modules to introduce weekly content, upload pictures/videos, and provide important reminders/checklists.
  • “Hide” modules that aren’t fleshed out yet: vtac.lonestar.edu/help/a095
  • Add a welcome announcement that points students to “Content” where they can find their course materials: vtac.lonestar.edu/help/a060

What kind of content can I add to D2L?

Various types of instructional content, such as presentation files or video links, can be added to D2L modules. These resources are called Topics. Learn more about adding Topics to your modules by watching this VTAC video or visiting the Add Topics to a Content Module page.

 

Adding Different Types of Content

  • Upload a file, such as PowerPoint slides, Word document, video file, PDF, etc.: See above video
  • Add a YouTube video: vtac.lonestar.edu/help/a091
  • Add a link to an external site: vtac.lonestar.edu/help/a094
  • Find directions for various third-party (publisher content: Wiley, McGraw-Hill, InQuisitive, ALEKS, etc.) integrations by visiting vtac.lonestar.edu/help and selecting "Third-party Integrations" from the menu on the left-hand side

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