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This resource page outlines the framework for online course development and review at Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC). It includes policies, procedures, Quality Matters (QM) standards, Regular and Substantial Interactions (RSI), team formation, course design, planning, quality assurance, and ongoing support.
Introduction
IECC is committed to providing exceptional online education through careful design, development, and delivery of programs and certificates. This guide serves as a practical tool for instructors to develop quality online courses, emphasizing RSI integration, adherence to QM principles, CETL templates, and a commitment to quality.
Policy and Procedure
Adhering to Instruction Policy 800.9 and Procedure 800.9, the guide ensures compliance with IECC standards. link here (should be ready after board meeting)
Instructional Design
Online course development differs significantly from face-to-face teaching, both pedagogically and technologically. Each course will be assigned an instructional design lead to assist with course material development, troubleshooting, and updates.
Course Framework
Courses part of an online program will be developed collaboratively with faculty and an instructional designer to create a consistent structure, making navigation easier for students and adhering to QM guidelines.
Faculty Guide
Provides essential guidance for instructors, covering policies, instructional design, course development, assessment, inclusivity, and more.
- Initiation of Course Development: Course selection aligns with academic leadership and district goals.
- Team Formation: A multidisciplinary team including SMEs, instructional designers, technology specialists, and a project manager is formed.
- Course Design and Planning: Using QM-compliant templates, the team designs the course framework, aligning learning outcomes, assessments, and instructional materials.
- Development of Course Materials: Content is developed to meet QM standards, focusing on accessibility and inclusivity.
- RSI Integration: Course design includes regular and meaningful interactions between students and instructors.
- Quality Assurance and Review: CETL reviews courses against QM standards and RSI requirements, providing feedback for revisions.
- Draft and Feedback Collection: A draft course is used to collect feedback and make adjustments.
- Final Approval and Launch: The CETL director signs off on the final course, and it is launched.
- Ongoing Support and Enhancement: CETL provides continuous support for course delivery and updates.
- Professional Development and Training: Faculty and staff have access to continuous professional development opportunities.
- Documentation and Reporting: Documentation is maintained for review and improvement.
Course Templates
Each IECC online course will use CETL-developed templates in Canvas LMS to ensure consistency and quality. These templates adhere to QM standards and best practices, promoting active learning and critical thinking. Course Templates are available in the Canvas commons. If you would like to import the template contact Ken Anderson at:
Quality Matters (QM)
QM is a faculty-centered, peer-review process that certifies the quality of online courses. By adhering to QM standards, IECC ensures online courses are well-organized, clear, engaging, and aligned with learning objectives, enhancing student learning and success.
Course Syllabus
The online course syllabus should be clear, organized, and include additional information for navigating the digital learning environment.
It should also communicate available student support resources.
The syllabus should follow the master syllabus database and include IAI outcomes if applicable.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
IECC is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible online learning environment.
This involves designing course materials with accessibility in mind, supporting assistive technologies, and ensuring compliance with our standards.
We utilize ALLY software to ensure compliance for online classes.
Professional Development
CETL offers continuous professional development opportunities for faculty to stay updated on the latest trends in online teaching and learning.
Continuous Improvement
Courses undergo regular reviews to ensure they meet quality standards.
Feedback from students and faculty is used to make continuous improvements.
Instructors will be contacted once the review is ready.
Resources
Faculty Guide
This provides essential information and guidance for instructors. It covers college policies, instructional procedures, and best practices at IECC. The handbook includes details on topics such as policy and procedure, instructional design, course development, curriculum design, assessment, inclusivity, course delivery, and more.
Instruction Design Assistance
Find helpful resources and assistance for instructional design.
Quality Matters (QM)
Explore Quality Matters and its impact on online education.
Illinois Articulation Initiative
Learn more about the Illinois Articulation Initiative.
FAQ
Contact
For more information or assistance, please contact Mike Conn.