Reimagining the 5 W’s: Online Course Quality and Alignment

Posted June 12, 2017 by Dolly Lemke

Introduction

At Northwestern, we ascribe to extremely high educational quality standards, and this of course extends to the online courses and programs we design, implement, and maintain for graduate and undergraduate adult learners. But, what does a quality online course … Read More

Facilitating Online Group Work: June Online Learning Webinar

Posted June 9, 2017 by Christine Scherer

Instructional Technologist Aaron Bannasch led a discussion of best practices for facilitating online group work during the June Online Learning Webinar. Aaron covered evidence-based reasons for including group work in courses, tips for deciding on group size and composition, and … Read More

TEACHx 2017 Reflections

Posted June 5, 2017 by Christine Scherer

Last month, many members of the Distance Learning team attended and presented at Northwestern’s annual TEACHx conference. The conference highlights innovative uses of technology in education, and with most presentations lasting from 15-30 minutes, there’s a lot to see and … Read More

Best Practices for Communicating With Students in Online Classes

Posted May 30, 2017 by Kristina Wilson

Introduction

A recent SPS student satisfaction study asked students to identify ways their academic program could be enhanced. Numerous students suggested making improvements to instructor-student communication and engagement.

I know what you’re thinking. Communication should be easy! With digital tools … Read More

Scripts, Images, Action!: Creating Quality Videos for MUS 370

Posted May 24, 2017 by Aaron Bannasch

About the course revision process

The MUSEUM 370 – Museum Origins and Issues course is one of three courses in the Museum Studies Online Certificate Program and the first to undergo a revision process. The revision of MUSEUM 370 included … Read More

Spotlight on Accessibility – Alternative Text: May 2017 Online Learning Webinar

Posted May 22, 2017 by Christine Scherer

In May’s online learning webinar, Content Specialist Christine Scherer shared information on web accessibility in course design, specifically the use of alternative text to make images accessible to all students. Faculty were asked to think of alt-text for a variety … Read More

Lavalier Microphone Discounts for Faculty, Students, and Staff: Limited Time Only

Posted May 17, 2017 by William J Guth

We are pleased to announce the winner of the iRig Lavalier microphone giveaway. Congratulations to adjunct faculty Eric Abbott. Thank you to all who participated.

As promised, a few of our microphone donors are extending discounts on mobile recording … Read More

Applying “The Hero’s Journey” to Course Design

Posted May 15, 2017 by Jacob Guerra-Martinez

As I have mentioned in some of my previous posts, Gamification is the utilization of gaming concepts and theories into courses. Ideas such as advancing levels, increasing challenges, implementing rewards and providing instant feedback can be worked into an … Read More

Online Learning Resource Round-Up!

Posted May 8, 2017 by Christine Scherer

Online education is growing fast–so fast that it can be hard to keep up with all the latest news and resources. The Distance Learning staff have assembled some of their favorite online learning resources to help highlight some of our … Read More

Inclusive Language

Posted May 1, 2017 by Christine Scherer

Online education allows universities and faculty to open their doors to a wider audience of students than ever before. Students can earn a Northwestern degree without ever setting foot in Chicago, Illinois, or even the United States. This openness in … Read More