Jason Collar

I learned that as an online instructor, I have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities, in compliance with laws like the ADA and Section 508. I intend to apply this by regularly checking my content for accessibility, using tools like alt text, captions, and accessible document formats, so that every student has equal access to learning.

I learned that accessibility is a crucial part of designing online courses and that assistive technologies like screen readers and captioning tools help ensure all students can engage with the content. I plan to apply this by reviewing my course materials for accessibility and making sure I'm using tools and formats that support students with different needs.

I learned that revising a course is an ongoing process that helps improve student learning over time. I plan to apply this by regularly reviewing feedback and performance data, then making intentional updates to my course structure and materials based on what’s working and what’s not.

I learned how important it is to balance formative and summative assessments and give students clear rubrics and meaningful feedback. I plan to apply this by designing assessments that help students grow over time and by giving timely, constructive feedback to guide their learning.

I learned that the syllabus sets the tone for the whole course and should be clear, welcoming, and student-centered. I plan to apply this by making sure my syllabus communicates expectations, pacing, and support in a way that builds trust and helps students feel connected from the start.

Question for the group: How do you make your syllabus feel more like a helpful guide for students rather than just a list of rules?

In this module, I learned the importance of building a clear and consistent course structure that supports student-centered learning. By organizing modules with defined objectives, pacing, and reusable resources, I can create a more engaging and predictable experience for students. I plan to apply this by designing my future online lessons with a clear framework, using consistent formats and tools, and building a library of learning objects to make planning and instruction more efficient.