Developing an online course is significantly different from preparing to teach a face-to-face course, both pedagogically and technologically. Instructional Designers can assist by helping to set a timeline and project plan, develop course materials, create assessments, offer recommendations for integrating active learning, and ensure the course meets NIU quality standards for online courses.
The ADDIE Model
We use the ADDIE model to guide the design and development of online courses. It is a widely utilized model of instructional design that is easy to follow.
Analysis - an instructional designer (ID) meets with the faculty member to determine what is needed
Design - the ID works with the faculty member to develop learning elements, or objects, and modules for the course, resulting in a prototype
Development - once the prototype has been approved the ID works with others on the team to develop the rest of the course materials
Implementation - the course is uploaded and tested as part of a quality review
Evaluation - at the end of the first course offering, the ID and faculty member can meet to discuss any feedback on the course design and any modifications that are needed
Project Management
Project management is important to ensure that the course is ready for students. The instructional designer manages the course development process from beginning to end. For faculty, this means you can focus on your course content and not have to worry about managing a development team. The instructional designer will work with you to create a timeline.
Process
We don't believe in letting technology lead the design of online courses. We look at the course objectives, successful strategies in teaching the materials, and then help you pick the right technologies for your course.