Kickstarting the Course
Whether you use a 00 Module or not, providing students key information about the course is vital for their success. Research has show us that while many factors contribute to online student attrition, at the top of the list are level of interaction and support (Moore and Kearsley, 1996). Early in the course by implementing some of these strategies, you have the potential of not only improving retention, but also clarifying misconceptions and questions about your course.
When I taught onground my personal teaching philosophy was "less is more" when it came to course information, syllabus length, and course orientations. I'd rather give information out as needed throughout the quarter. I wanted to jump in and get started. However, when teaching online, I had to be very intentional about making available most of the course information for students from the start.
The following are some strategies and resources that are course specific. The aim of these strategies and resources are to clarify to students information about how your course is designed and ran. Intertwined amongst all of the strategies and resources is the importance of clear design and direction. Keep in mind, not all items on this list are needed for a successful start. If you bombard students with too much information they can get bogged down or overwhelmed. However, some of these strategies may be beneficial to you and your students. Ask yourself the questions: Is it obvious what my student is supposed to do next? Is the navigation clear and easy to follow or easy to get lost?
- Course Syllabus
Canvas' Syllabus Tool or in the 00 Module is a great place for this to live. -
Course Introduction Video
Here is an excellent example of how SCC's Brenda McCracken introduces her students to the major aspects of her course navigation, syllabus, assignments, etc.
- Instructor Introduction
Bios, emails, announcements, or a page in the intro module can all offer students a glimpse of who is teaching them. - Communication Policy
Instructors can tell students where they wish to communicate as well as when students should reasonably expect a response. Example here Links to an external site. - "How to Succeed in This Class" Document or Video
- Introduce Yourself Discussion
Commonly designed as an icebreaker activity, but allows students to get a sense of being part of a community. Helpful to send a personalized message to each specific student here. - Syllabus/Intro Module Quiz
Built into Canvas, this quiz can be a requirement to unlock future modules and helps satisfy the concern that students are ignoring the syllabus. - Tour of Publisher Material and Instructions
Publishers often have student instructions available. Either provide those or make a walkthrough video for them. - Welcome Announcement and Email
- Canvas and other Course Technology Orientation
Provide support for the technology used in the course. Here's a Canvas orientation. -
Course Expectations and Grading Policy
Often built into the syllabus document, however individual pages in a module provides quick access. - Academic Assignment Due in The First Three Days
Quickly establish your high expectations, make a meaningful connection with your students, and provide an early opportunity to reach-out to students who aren't starting quickly.