Course Development Process

In the two-week period prior to kickoff, the DC completes the Planning Document to document the course’s broad needs. In the kickoff meeting, the DC, ID, SME, and Library representative meet to review and discuss the completed Planning Document, with the goal of having a clear picture of the DC’s vision for the course.

During the Outcomes phase, the ID and the SME meet to draft course- and module-level outcomes. For a new course, the ID and the SME draft new outcomes using information from the Course Planning Document. For an alignment of an existing course, the ID and the SME review and edit/rewrite existing course and module outcomes (if they exist).

Department Chair Outcomes Review Checklist

During the Outline phase, the ID and SME collaborate to create a high-level framework for the course. This includes structuring each module by defining the assessments, lessons, and activities that support the module outcomes. This also includes a detailed plan for integrating custom instructional media, shaped through collaborative ideation between the SME, ID, and media lead.

Department Chair Outline Review Checklist

In the Initial Development phase, the ID and SME collaborate to develop the first two modules of the course “on paper” based on the approved course outline. This includes creating the assessments that align with the module outcomes, developing learning activities, writing instructional content and student-facing instructions, curating library and other supporting resources, and organizing all materials within the Course Development Document (CDD). Work focuses only on Modules 1 and 2 to establish a modular rhythm that, if approved, will be carried through to Modules 3–8. Active collaboration with the Library and Media Services is essential.

Department Chair Course Development Document Checklist

In the Full Development phase, the ID and SME collaborate to develop the content for the remaining six modules. This includes fully fleshed-out lesson content, activities, and assessments before the course moves into production.

Department Chair Course Development Document Checklist

In the Production phase, the Instructional Technologist uses the approved CDD to build the course in Canvas. The ID reviews the course to ensure all components are in place and functioning as intended.

Department Chair Canvas Review Document