Lately, I have been getting quite a few emails from teachers
who want to learn how to create an online course. The problem with the term
“online course” is that the phrase can mean many things to many people.
Therefore, it is very frustrating when you are trying to identify a plan of
action for client that wants to develop a course, or wants advice on how to
manage the course they are currently using. Where do you start?
The following is the
homework assignment that can help future teachers with online courses.
1.
Examine other virtual online course sites and
take notice to the program they are using.
2.
Determine if their clients are private, public
or higher education schools.
3.
Locate their type of curriculum and how it is
used for the students and the teachers.
4.
Decide if you could learn how to use their
learning format.
Developing Content
If you feel that developing content for a course is your
game, then I would suggest that you sign up for Coursesites.com. You can add
five free courses that can have twenty five students per class. This would be
the first place to start your journey on course development. I would rate the
margin of difficulty as moderate.
Next, it would behoove you investigate Moodle. This web site
will require you to review the different ways that you can use Moodle. It will
take you time to really understand the uses and benefits that Moodle can offer.
You may find out that you are not ready to utilize this program; therefore
another option would be to practice your course development on Brain Honey.
This format could be more uses –friendly.
Learning on the Job
You could jump in and get a part time job teaching online,
and develop your skills while you are teaching. The big problem with this
proposal is the amount of PhD’s that are looking for teaching positions. If you
don’t have the specific credentials, your chances are going to be limited.
So now What!
Create your own niche by researching, learning, and
analyzing your specific interests in online courses. If this is your passion,
then you will be more likely to succeed. Ask specific questions that identify
your concerns and your interests.
Craig@mydestinationtrainer.com
