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Introducing OSCQR Course Design Tool
Posted December 5, 2018
By: Tori Reany
SIUE has adopted the Open SUNY Course Quality Review (OSCQR) tool to provide quality course reviews using evidence-based principles. Instructional designers are available for consultation at any time during the development of your course regardless of course delivery method – online, blended, or face-to-face, and they will use OSCQR to make recommendations on course design and content delivery. To request a consultation or course review, please complete the IDLT request form.
The OSCQR tool provides guidelines and suggestions on the following areas:
Course Overview and Information
Course includes a Welcome, Course Information, and/or Getting Started area containing an overview/introduction, printable syllabus, links to campus and student resources, contact information for the instructor, department, and/or program, and clearly defined course objectives/outcomes that are aligned to student learning activities and assessments.
Course Technology & Tools
Technology tools being utilized meet accessible standards, and any requisite skills and/or technical requirements are clearly stated. Required tools are easily accessible and any tools not being used are removed from the course menu.
Design and Layout
Course is free from grammatical and spelling errors, conforms to accessibility standards to enhance readability, and is organized in a logical, consistent, and uncluttered manner with information divided into manageable chunks.
Content and Activities
Course includes a variety of resources, real-world applications, and activities that support student learning and engagement and develop higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. All text is readable by assistive technology, non-text content is provided a text equivalent, and hyperlink/document titles are descriptive and make sense when out of context. When possible, free or low-cost materials are used.
Interaction
Course builds a sense of community by supporting collaboration between students and interaction with both students and the instructor. Students are encouraged to share diverse resources and perspectives, and communication expectations/netiquette policies are clearly stated.
Assessment and Feedback
Grading and late submission policies are clearly defined and easy to locate. Frequent formal and self-assessment opportunities are provided to gauge students’ mastery, and students are notified in advance if a timed response is required. Student feedback on course design, content delivery, technology tools, etc. is welcomed and encouraged.
