How to Create Distance Study Courses
More and more individuals are considering distance learning programs as a way to complete coursework. The process of creating a distance learning course can be completed by producing text or multimedia based assignments for students which are required to be returned in the same manner.
1. Create your curriculum. With distance learning programs you have countless options, however, the curriculum should be close to what is used in a traditional classroom setting. Ensure that workbooks, textbooks, extra reading assignments and other assignments are optimized for an independent study program. This will allow each student to complete each assignment with very little oversight.
2. Instill a tone of accountability for each student. In distance learning programs, accountability is even more important than in a traditional class setting. This is due to the fact that distance learning teachers are not available to physically verify what a student has completed. Establish an honor system where students will need to verbally verify that they have completed their assignments on their own. Student’s can also verify this using a written statement.
3. Develop a system for regular and frequent interaction with students. For a distance learning program to be successful both the students and teachers need to be able to communicate quickly and thoroughly whenever necessary. Telephone or e-mail is generally sufficient. However, for a more intense level of communication a virtual classroom via chat or videoconference may be more appropriate.
4. Ensure that your syllabus is clear. With distance learning courses, students are generally not able to receive regular reminders that an assignment due date is pending. Therefore, it is important that any due dates are outlined clearly in the syllabus.