Excellence in Online Teaching

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/excellence-in-online-teaching

Introduction

### Course Review: Excellence in Online Teaching on Coursera In today's digital age, the landscape of education has shifted dramatically, leading to an increasing demand for well-equipped online educators. Coursera's course, **Excellence in Online Teaching**, is a timely and invaluable resource for anyone involved in online teaching or aspiring to become an online instructor. This course provides participants with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to elevate their online teaching practices and improve student learning outcomes. #### Overview **Excellence in Online Teaching** is meticulously designed to cater to both novice and experienced instructors who wish to enhance their online teaching skills. The course is structured into five comprehensive modules, each focusing on a crucial aspect of online education. By the end of the course, learners will emerge with actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately to enhance their online teaching effectiveness. #### Module Breakdown - **Module 1: Welcome & Facilitating Online Learning** The course kicks off with a warm welcome, setting the tone for a collaborative learning environment. This module introduces foundational theories of online teaching, emphasizing best practices for assessment, student motivation, and defining success in an online classroom. Engaging with case studies helps participants analyze successful teaching approaches, ensuring they are well-acquainted with the essential elements of effective online instruction. - **Module 2: Accessibility & Inclusivity** One of the standout features of this course is its commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment. Participants will explore Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and delve into the legal aspects of accessibility in online education. This module empowers educators to create courses that cater to a diverse student body, ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all. - **Module 3: Innovative Uses of Technology** Technology is an integral part of online education, and this module systematically addresses how to leverage it effectively. Educators will learn about various technologies that enhance learning objectives, with a special focus on a technology of their choice that they can incorporate into their own courses. This hands-on approach ensures that participants are not only knowledgeable about technological tools but also adept at applying them practically. - **Module 4: Student Community Building** Building a sense of community in an online classroom is vital for maintaining student engagement and motivation. This module offers practical strategies for instructors to foster connection among students, facilitating a supportive learning environment. Participants will learn techniques for encouraging collaboration and interaction, which can significantly enhance the online learning experience. - **Module 5: Faculty Professional Growth & Development** The final module emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development for educators. It encourages instructors to reflect on their teaching practices and engage in lifelong learning. This aspirational conclusion to the course inspires educators to pursue ongoing improvement, ultimately leading to better educational experiences for their students. ### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend **Excellence in Online Teaching** to anyone involved in teaching online courses, whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your journey. The course is structured in a way that is easily digestible, yet rich in content, allowing for both theoretical understanding and practical application. Moreover, the community aspect of the course, facilitated through discussions and peer interactions, adds significant value. Participants not only gain insights from the instructors but also from their peers, creating a collaborative environment that enhances the learning experience. Enrolling in this course is an investment in yourself as an educator. The skills and knowledge acquired can greatly influence your teaching effectiveness, ultimately leading to improved student satisfaction and outcomes. With the increasing reliance on online education, it is imperative for educators to embrace excellence in their teaching practices, and this course is an excellent starting point. **Enroll today and take a step towards transformative online teaching!**

Syllabus

Module 1: Welcome & Facilitating Online Learning

Welcome to the course! The first lesson of this module will introduce you to the course, course expectations, and your instructors. We hope you find this course insightful and relevant to your teaching and professional goals. Our first module will acclimate you to the foundational theories and modalities of online teaching, discuss best-practices in assessment of learning outcomes, student motivation, and defining success. You will analyze exemplar case studies and focus on being intentional in the online classroom.

Our second module will explore the ways in which online teaching and learning can be designed and implemented in a way that is inclusive of all students. We will cover Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility, inclusivity, and associated legal implications.

This module of this course will cover the intentional, efficient, and most effective uses of technology that support student mastery of the learning objectives. Various technologies will be considered for efficacy along with a subsequent deep dive into one technology and its application in your own course(s) will be explored.

As an instructor, how can you encourage community building within the class, department or program, or online campus?

This final module discusses the benefits of continuous personal and professional development and improvement for teaching practice.