There will be streetscape construction along Lawson Street that is expected to begin later this week that will impact traffic flow. Traffic delays are expected, so please allow yourself extra time to get to class. Click below for more information.
We鈥檙e already approaching the halfway point of the fall semester, which makes this a perfect time to pause and reflect. How are your classes going so far? Are students engaging the way you hoped? Are assignments matching your goals? Now is the moment to make small but meaningful adjustments, whether that means refining what you鈥檙e doing in your 16-week classes or beginning to plan strategically for Term B so that the second half of the semester sets both you and your students up for success.
This semester also marks the beginning of a yearlong focus on our Rather than trying to tackle the entire list at once, we鈥檒l break it down into manageable components and explore them piece by piece. This approach gives us the chance to dig deeper into each element, from course overview and introductions to course design and accessibility. By taking it step by step, we can strengthen the foundation of our online courses while making the process a little bit easier.
If you missed the first session, you can still watch it: (you will need to log in with your 麻豆影视 credentials to view). You can still view this and receive credit towards completion of all parts to be eligible for special prizes by emailing canvashelp@durhamtech.edu to let us know you viewed it (please note that the video tells you what to include in this email to ensure that it was viewed 馃槉). In this first session, we took a closer look at the opening elements of the Online Course Review Checklist, focusing on the student鈥檚 first impression of a class. We discussed the importance of clearly displaying the course title and instructor name to build trust and clarity from day one. We also emphasized creating a warm welcome through a short message or video, giving students clear instructions on how to begin, and ensuring the syllabus is posted in the proper place using the 麻豆影视 template. From there, we explored how calendars and learning objectives provide structure and direction, and how certain items like a course orientation and Course Enrollment Quiz help students feel confident and connected as they get started.
Looking ahead, our focus will shift each month to build on this foundation. In October, we鈥檒l dive into (use this link to sign up), taking a closer look at how thoughtful course organization can make navigation seamless for students. November will highlight (use this link to sign up), with strategies to make sure that your materials and activities in your course can be effective for everyone. We will be joined by Meredith Lewis, from the 麻豆影视 library, to aid in our discussion. December will turn the spotlight to communication and instructor presence with (use this link to sign up), exploring ways to foster meaningful connections in online spaces. The remaining checklist topics will carry forward into spring 2026, giving us the time and space to fully explore each component. Look for Teams links also provided by the ODL's weekly emails.
Making our online courses the best they can be is something we all share together. Faculty, staff, and support teams each have a part to play in building and strengthening classes to feel clear, welcoming, and easy for students to navigate. If it seems like you鈥檙e hearing a lot more about online course review, it鈥檚 because it really is that important. When we take small steps such as adding a warm welcome, organizing content, or checking on links, we create a big impact that helps our students feel supported and ready to succeed.
For questions, feedback, or a little extra guidance, contact Canvas Help anytime at canvashelp@durhamtech.edu
Thank you for all you do to make online learning a positive experience for our students!