Online Teaching Best Practices

If you are new to teaching online, running into a challenge, or simply interested in trying something new, the following groups and resources can help.   

Online Teaching Principles 

Teaching a fully online class requires the same essential instructional skills as in-person instruction.  The difference is that familiar techniques that are second nature in the classroom require more intention an planning: especially those related to providing structure, modeling learning behaviors, and creating connection and community among students. 

The IDEAS group on campus has an excellent set of resources on their Online Teaching Resources page that cover the basics of teaching online, as well as deep dives into other issues 

Foundations of Online Teaching

• Online Teaching and Learning Theory
• Equity & Inclusion in Online Teaching

Structure, Design & Accessibility

• Developing Learning Objectives in an Online Course
• Developing an Effective Syllabus for an Online Course
• Designing Accessible Online Courses
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Developing Assessments

• Approaches to Assessment Online
• Formative Assessment Online: Guide Students to Success
• Create Authentic Summative Assignments Online
• Providing Effective Feedback on Students' Learning Process
• Creating Effective Online Quizzes and Exams

Encouraging Engagement

• Develop Engaging Instructional Materials
• Develop Engaging Learning Activities
• Facilitating Class Discussions Online

Communicating Effectively

• Communicate Effectively with Online Students
• Course Welcome and Introductions

Access and Equity in Online Classes 

Online learning offers opportunities for people who aren’t typically able to attend full-time, in-person programs. In order to help make sure they succeed, make sure your course is designed to support people who don’t match the model of a “typical” student.  

• Equity & Inclusion in Online Teaching (IDEAS)
• Promoting Equity and Humanizing Online Courses (UCI)
• Replacing Surveillance Pedagogies with Meaningful Assessments  (Digital Learning)