As part of a continuous effort to ensure quality in online course design, the best practices below have been identified to
support faculty teaching college courses. For more information, visit: www.mountainviewcollege.edu/bpto
1.
COURSE INTRODUCTION
YES
NO
1.1
Is a clear starting point present, such as “Start Here” which introduces the subject, defines course structure, details first
steps, and links to the syllabus?
1.2
Is an instructor introduction present and are students asked to introduce themselves to other classmates?
1.3
Does the syllabus detail (or link to) required materials, communication expectations and response time, institutional
policies, support resources, and grading policy?
2.
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
YES
NO
2.1
Are links to institutional policies and technology and campus support resources present?
2.2
Does the grade center accurately reflect calculated totals, as mentioned in the syllabus, so that students can continually
track progress?
2.3
Is course navigation clear and easily understood and have less utilized links and tools been hidden to minimize confusion?
2.4
Is text separated into clearly understood sections (headers, lists, etc.), versus long format material?
2.5
Are a variety of current instructional materials (graphics, videos, articles, simulations) utilized throughout the course?
3.
COURSE ALIGNMENT
YES
NO
3.1
Are learning objectives present, within content areas, that are consistent with student learning outcomes?
3.2
Are detailed explanations of assignments, including instructions, submission requirements, and grading criteria provided?
3.3
Do assessments and grading rubrics measure the stated learning objectives?
4.
LEARNER ENGAGEMENT
YES
NO
4.1
Are instructor announcements and discussions utilized on a weekly basis?
4.2
Are students routinely asked to share and respond to other student discussions?
4.3
Is instructor feedback provided on graded discussions and assignments?
5.
UNIVERSAL DESIGN AND ACCESSIBLITY
YES
NO
5.1
Are course documents provided in an accessible format so that students can access them on any device?
5.2
Is text formatting throughout the course consistent and readable (similar font, color, size)?
5.3
Are alternative formats accessible for rich-media content (such as videos with closed captioning)?
Best Practices for Teaching Online is a nationally recognized faculty professional development
program. This checklist has been developed via an eLearning Work Group at Mountain View College,
part of the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD), in partnership with the National
Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD). Updated 08/22/19.