1.0 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

1.1 How are Online Classes Different?

1.2 Course Planning with Backward Design

1.3 Writing Good Learning Objectives

1.4: Quiz: Identifying Learning Objectives

1.5 Resources for Learning Objectives & Backward Design