7 Considerations for Delivering Successful Online Courses

Thomas S. Mueller, PhD, MBA

Sponsored by

Thomas MuellerAppalachian State Communication Department

Direct responsibilities in distance education

Taught two classes online last semester, all three online in Fall 2013

New cohort projected @ 30 students

PhD, University of Florida (2009) and MBA, Otterbein

University(2005)

Sport agency owner – NASCAR, ProRodeo, Billiards, Supercross

Agenda

Technology Considerations

Policy Considerations

Pedagogical Considerations

Questions

1: Define Your “Portal”Dedicated Website for Student-Instructor Interaction

Appalachian State Portal: Moodle 2

Dedicated Website for Student-Instructor Interaction

2: Online Communication Channels

Email & messaging

Student forums

News forums

Wiki pages

Interactive video

Assignment

submission

Tests and quizzing

3: Connectivity

“Modern” web browser

Internet reliability and

speed

Policy for student

responsibility

4: Mobility

Mobile versions of portal

sites

Native mobile apps

iOS and Android

5: IT Support

Pre-test technology

Promote tech support for students

Tech issues and assignment policies

6: Academic IntegritySelf-regulation for online honesty

Devote first class to discussion

New technology runs in background

Cursor movement as a “fingerprint”

ProctorU for online exams

7: Instructional Approach

Set expectations about rigor of online education

Front-load your course portal

Interact in a scalable way (forums, group chats, video)

Set expectations about the “always on" environment

Use consistent technology throughout each course

Smaller content modules for video, content, quizzing

Takeaways

Online benefits for students, faculty and

institutions

Success requires technology, policy, and

pedagogy

Don’t be afraid to learn as you go

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