Online Standards

Numerous research studies have revealed how to best design online learning experiences that harness technology while choosing effective teaching strategies, which is known as digital pedagogy. Frameworks and standards have been created to guide faculty through the process. One such set of standards is Quality Matters. Quality Matters standards are used across the world to ensure quality in online learning experiences. To get started with online design, you need to become familiar with online standards and what a quality lesson looks like. This will help you draw a picture of what you desire for your end result.

Dig Deeper

Are you ready to dig deeper? Here are additional “getting started” tips:

• Set Clear Objectives: Define your goals and objectives for the online presence of your course. Determine what you want to achieve and how the online platform will enhance student learning experiences.
• Select your LMS platform: At Louisiana Tech University, we use Moodle and Canvas as our LMS, but other options for those outside our system include Google Classroom, NEO, and Microsoft Teams.
• Familiarize yourself with the basics of the LMS such as contacting students, posting content, assignment and feedback options. Check out the resoures on our EdTech page!
• Pace Yourself: Don’t feel the need to “learn it all” instead pick two assignment and feedback options to learn. (example: assignment and discussion board)
• Select a video conferencing tool such as Zoom or Google Handouts Meet. Louisiana Tech offers Zoom Pro for all University staff.
• Familiarize yourself with interactive components available in the LMS and video conferencing tool. These might include polling, discussion forums, video recording, closed captioning, whiteboards, and screen sharing.
• Learn the basics of the video conferencing software. Can you create a meeting, invite students, conduct the meeting, and save the recorded video?
• Organize Course Content: Structure your course content in a logical and intuitive manner. Divide it into modules or units, and create folders or sections to organize materials such as readings, lectures, assignments, and multimedia resources.
• Create Engaging Content: Develop interactive and engaging materials that cater to different learning styles. This can include video lectures, slide presentations, audio recordings, e-books, infographics, and interactive quizzes or activities.
• Foster Collaboration and Communication: Provide opportunities for students to collaborate and communicate with each other and with you. Set up discussion boards, group projects, and virtual meeting spaces to facilitate meaningful interactions.
• Incorporate Assessments: Determine how you will assess student learning in the online environment. Design quizzes, exams, assignments, and discussions that allow for both formative and summative assessments.
• Ensure Accessibility: Consider accessibility guidelines and ensure that your online course materials are accessible to all students. Use alt text for images, provide closed captions for videos, and choose accessible design layouts.
• Establish a Clear Schedule: Outline a clear schedule or timeline for the course, including assignment due dates, discussion deadlines, and any synchronous or asynchronous activities.
• Communicate Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations to students regarding participation, engagement, and academic integrity. Provide a detailed syllabus or course outline that outlines course requirements and guidelines.
• Test and Iterate: Before launching your course, thoroughly test all components to ensure a smooth learning experience. Seek feedback from colleagues or students to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.

Remember, creating an effective online presence for your course is an ongoing process. Continuously evaluate and refine your strategies based on student feedback and evolving best practices in online education. Embrace the flexibility and possibilities that online learning offers, and continually seek professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in online teaching.