Course Design Checklist

Consider the following best practices when designing your course.

Overall Site Design

  • The course layout is simple and user friendly
  • Instructor self-recorded video or posted announcement welcomes students
  • Instructions for navigating the course are clearly stated
  • Course requirements are clearly defined
  • Instructor contact information is provided
  • KU IT help desk information is provided
  • Accessibility issues have been considered

Syllabus and Course Expectations

  • The syllabus is easy to find, easy to read, and follows the University syllabus policy
  • Learning objectives are written using action verbs to produce measurable outcomes
  • Participation and interaction expectations are clearly stated
  • Course calendar and due dates are displayed
  • A grading scale is provided
  • Communication expectations are stated for both students and the instructor
  • Academic misconduct policy and accessibility resource statement are provided

Course Content

  • Lessons, units, or modules are laid out in an easily navigable format
  • Course material is presented through different means to provide variety and interest (e.g. Assigned readings, recorded lectures, external videos or simulations, links to publisher websites, learning games)
  • Instructions for accessing external content are provided
  • Multimedia and external links have been checked for functionality

Assignments and Exams

  • A variety of assessments exist to allow students to engage with the course material (e.g. Auto-graded quizzes, case studies, research projects, video presentations)
  • Assignments and exams include clear instructions for submission
  • Due dates for assignments and exams match the due dates presented in the syllabus

Engagement and Interaction

  • The instructor's plan for regular and substantive interaction with students is clearly stated (e.g. Virtual office hours, Q&A discussion forums, grading rubrics, feedback methods and timelines)
  • Opportunities are provided for students to interact with fellow students (e.g. Discussion boards, Zoom rooms, Teams chats, group projects, Wikis)
  • “Netiquette” guidelines are provided to set expectations regarding student conduct

Download and print the Course Design Checklist (.doc)