2.0 Module Overview: Designing an Online Course

Designing an online course: Where do I start?

You may have heard the recommendation to start with the end in mind - the desired learning outcomes for you students.  While that's a very valid recommendation, there is more to the process than just having a solid starting point.

Learning Objectives

In this module, we describe Backward Design as a model for developing or revising online courses to improve validity, dependability, and clarity. We also discuss the first aspect of Backward Design -- learning outcomes.  By the end of this module, we hope you will be able to:

  • apply Backward Design to the development or revision of an online course, and
  • write 2-4 measurable learning outcomes for that course

Table of Contents

2.1 How are Online Classes Different?

2.2 Online Teaching Readiness Survey

2.3 Course Planning with Backward Design

2.4 Writing Good Learning Outcomes

2.5 Practice Drafting Learning Outcomes

2.6 Resources for Learning Outcomes & Backward Design

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