Identifying Course Development Resources
What resources are available? Indicated below are some resources that can assist in the planning and implementation of your web-based or web-enhanced course:
Instructional Services, http://delta.ncsu.edu/index.php
Library: Research and Information Services, http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/risd/
Library: Distance Learning Services, http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/distance/
ITAP program, http://delta.ncsu.edu/learn/certificate_programs/itap/
Scholarly Communications Center, http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/scc/
Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning, http://www.ncsu.edu/fctl/
Usability Lab, http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/dli/about_usability_lab.html
Scanning and Digitization Lab, http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/dli/sdl/
Other resources to consider:
New Media Lab
Departmental climate for support
Graduate Assistant/Research Assistant
Students -- site content enrichment via course assignments
Funding
Personal knowledge and skills in web development
Discipline-based resources from professional associations, collaboratives, publishers, peers, federal, state, local government
Personal resources
Your web-based course or course materials will also prove more user-friendly if you keep in mind, as you proceed with the development:
- Interaction activities should engage the students with the materials and you, so that interactivity is not perceived by students as mere “busy work.”
- Students tend to take greater responsibility for their learning in a virtual environment; providing flexibility and alternatives allow students to select the optimum means for them to absorb and apply the course material.
- Students will look to you for help if computer problems arise; providing contingency plans in case of server or computer malfunctions and sufficient windows of opportunity to submit assignments or take exams will minimize the need for you to exercise your crisis management skills. Explicit directions about what procedures to follow in which circumstances and a contact list will provide student with an alternative, depending on the situation, to calling or emailing you as the first point of contact.