For more than a decade, online course development in higher education has been shaped by a front-loaded design model. That means that courses are expected to be fully built before launch, often with polished multimedia, comprehensive assessments, and detailed LMS structures finalized in advance. While this model emerged from a desire to protect academic quality, it has become increasingly difficult to sustain. Instructional design teams are supporting more courses with fewer resources. Faculty are balancing teaching with research, service, and administrative responsibilities. Program timelines are accelerating, while expectations for flexibility and responsiveness continue to rise. In this environment, the assumption that a course must be “finished” before it can be taught is no longer realistic. In response, many institutions are quietly adopting a more pragmatic approach, one that preserves instructional integrity while allowing for phased development. This approach can be … [Read more...] about The Minimum Viable Course: A Practical Framework for Sustainable Online Course Design in Higher Education
Instructional Design and ELearning
The Future of Online Learning: What Faculty Must Do to Stay Relevant
Online learning is no longer a temporary solution or a supplementary format. It’s a permanent fixture in higher education. From Ivy League institutions to community colleges, universities are reimagining how, when, and where learning happens. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities, especially for faculty who want to remain relevant and effective in the years ahead. The future of online learning is fast, flexible, learner-centered, and increasingly shaped by technology. To thrive in this landscape, faculty must rethink not only how they teach but also what they contribute to the learning experience. Here’s what faculty need to understand and do to stay ahead 1. Embrace a Pedagogy-First, Tech-Second Mindset Technology is rapidly evolving, but it’s not a substitute for sound pedagogy. Faculty who focus only on tools, without adapting their instructional approach, risk becoming outdated. The future belongs to educators who prioritize how students learn and use … [Read more...] about The Future of Online Learning: What Faculty Must Do to Stay Relevant
How to Design Online College Courses That Actually Engage Students
The Key to Online Learning Success: Engagement In today’s online learning world, students juggle multiple roles, leading to loss of attention when they encounter poorly designed learning content. Designing an online college course that truly engages students, however, is part art and part science. The “trick” is to foster active participation by creating an immersive, interactive, and student-centered learning experience based on real-world application. Prioritize Interactive and Experiential Learning Many online courses miss the mark by simply trying to replicate traditional classroom methods, rather than embracing the unique advantages digital learning offers. Successful courses achieve more than just deliver content—they create dynamic environments where students are motivated, connected, and actively involved. While pre-recorded lectures and PDFs can be helpful, relying too much on them is a mistake in designing an engaging online course. Although such materials … [Read more...] about How to Design Online College Courses That Actually Engage Students
The 5-Step Freedom Plan for Teachers: Free Webinar!
In this on-demand webinar, we've tailored the content specifically for teachers like you who aspire to explore the dynamic field of instructional design. Whether you're considering a career change or looking for an additional avenue to expand your impact, this webinar provides a roadmap to unlock your potential. What You'll Discover in the Webinar Replay: Webinar: The 5 Step Freedom Plan For Teachers … [Read more...] about The 5-Step Freedom Plan for Teachers: Free Webinar!
Mastering Course Content Prioritization: Free Webinar!
In this exclusive webinar, you'll gain access to expert strategies and techniques that will transform the way you approach course content prioritization. Whether you're an eLearning pro or just starting, these insights will help you fine-tune your skills with precision and ease. Webinar: How to Select Content for eLearning Course … [Read more...] about Mastering Course Content Prioritization: Free Webinar!
Strategies for Effective Instructional Sequencing: Structuring Content for Optimal Learning
In the field of instructional design, the proper sequencing of content is crucial for facilitating effective learning experiences. Instructional sequencing ensures that learners progress through material in a logical and cohesive manner, maximizing comprehension and retention. By employing strategic sequencing techniques, instructional designers can create a scaffolded learning journey that supports learners' cognitive processes and enhances overall learning outcomes. This article explores key strategies for structuring instructional content to promote optimal learning. Analyze Learning Objectives To begin the process of instructional sequencing, it is essential to clearly define and analyze the learning objectives. By understanding the knowledge, skills, or behaviors learners should acquire, you can guide the sequencing process and ensure alignment with the desired outcomes. For example, when teaching the human digestive system, analyze the specific concepts and processes … [Read more...] about Strategies for Effective Instructional Sequencing: Structuring Content for Optimal Learning