The OTI is designed to immerse new and moderately-experienced online instructors in evidence-based practices that promote student learning, including integrated course design and structure, effective teaching methods, and a supportive learning environment. Instructors will explore accessible learning principles that foster welcoming, engaging and effectual learning environments online.
The OTI is led by CAT instructors where you will have the opportunity to discuss and learn from other faculty members.
Prerequisites: No prior online teaching experience is required for this program. It is recommended that you know how to use the basic functions of an LMS (Canvas) prior to participating in the OTI.
Total hours and length: A total of 15 hours over 3 weeks
Expected hours of time commitment a week: About 5 hours a week
Format: This is a non-credit program offered fully online asynchronously. There are no live meetings required.
Participants: Anyone interested in designing and teaching an online course that helps students succeed.
Levels: Beginner and Intermediate.
Additional information: Participants will have access to an online course in Canvas that integrates best practices for online course design. Participants will receive a Letter of Completion and a badge from Credly after they successfully complete the course.
Upon successful completion of the OTI, participants will be able to:
- Identify strategies to establish presence and build community online.
- Consider key elements of online course design.
- Design online assessments that improve student learning.
- Create effective and engaging discussions for students.
- Identify how to structure an online course to motivate learners and support their success.
- Explore accessible learning principles and the resources for implementing them.
- Apply evidence-based practices for effective teaching and learning in an online learning environment.
Course Structure and Goals
Start Here (Time estimated: 30 minutes)
- Summarize the program structure, expectations, and requirements.
- Network with colleagues.
Module 1: Setting the Stage for Your Course (Time estimated: 2 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Identify the three fundamental interactions of a course.
- Identify concrete strategies for establishing presence and community in an online course.
- Incorporate multiple ways of creating a sense of community in your online course.
Module 2: Online Course Design (Time estimated: 2 to 3 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Develop meaningful course goals.
- Align your goal with appropriate assessments and learning activities.
- Design a course that fosters significant learning by applying evidence-based principles for effective course design.
Module 3: Online Learning Assessments (Time estimated: 2 to 3 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Identify different forms of assessment that you can use in your online course
- Explore ways to provide feedback to your students
- Practice designing an assessment strategy that aligns with a course learning goal
Module 4: Online Learning Activities (Time estimated: 2 to 3 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Identify ways to deliver content online.
- Explore various online technologies and strategies that promote active learning and enhance different types of interactions.
Module 5: Structuring Your Course for Student Motivation (Time estimated: 2 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Describe the principles of effective course structure.
- Create well-rounded and consistent modules in your Canvas course.
- Apply best practices for course structure that will help to motivate students and contribute to their success in the course.
Module 6: Promoting Student Success (Time estimated: 2 hours)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Anticipate issues and challenges related to online teaching and learning.
- Prepare your online course to follow accessibility guidelines for students with accommodations.
- Provide clear guidance for completing tasks in your online course that will help students stay on track and avoid procrastination.
Module 7: Reflection/Wrap up (Time estimated: 30 minutes)
By the end of this module, you will be able to
- Reflect on the OTI concepts.
- Commit to some strategies or takeaways that you will apply to your online courses.