Creating a useful introduction learning module

In a better world, students would not take Web courses until they proved their proficiency in WebCT  and basic computer and study skills. Since this is not the case, consider taking the time to build a useful introductory learning module where you can show students:

• How to use the WebCT tools in your course (and basic computer skills)
• How the course is set up
• How to study (where, when, how long, and how to read a textbook)
• About related professions

In the WebCT tools sections you can explain each tool and have them do so some simple practice. For example explain how the assignment tool works and have them submit a practice assignment using the procedures they will use in the course.

Don't forget to mention the timeout period and how to stay logged in by going to Mail and clicking the auto-refresh box.

You might give them the course URL so they can bypass MYCSMD, saving a few clicks and seconds and come right into the course. Each course has a URL listed at the bottom of the page in the Manage Course section.

Show them how to set the paging preferences throughout WebCT in the My Settings link on the WebCT login page. Too many students don't seem to notice the paging controls scattered throughout WebCT and this causes many issues.

In the about the course section you can cover Netiquette and list CSM services for Web students and how to do some basic computer maintenance.

You can handle computer maintenance with a link like this or this. 

And college students can get Office 2007 ultimate for 91% off the suggested retail price here. (They have to take a picture of their CSM id and upload it since we don't have student edu email accounts here.)

This is also a good place to list characteristics of good students and instructors.

The how to study section can come from links, too. 

The last section deals with related professions.  Consider posting a link to careeronestop like this one that shows the 50 fastest growing professions in Maryland.  And you can include one that gives more information about the profession.

One way to know if students go through the introduction learning module is to have them do sample activities like take a sample test or turn in a practice assignment. 

A gentle reminder to students who miss these activities often is all it takes to have them do it.

By taking the time to do this the student will be better able to focus on what you want them to learn. And you can point to this section when questions arise during the semester.

Thoughts?

John