CU Denver Faculty Training and Events

This “short course” is offered as part of the Course Development Institute and uses a combination of self-paced learning and synchronous experiences. We are in the process of developing this new format and invite you to join us and let us know what you think!

Backward Course Design:

Are you beginning to prepare and plan for next semester? Consider thinking “backward”! Conceptualizing your course from a Backward Design perspective creates a more focused and meaningful experience for your students. The process is learner-centered, and helps ensure that your course content and assessments are aligned with the overall goals and objectives of the course (and your program!) The Backward Course Design short course walks through key elements of the process and helps you to take intentional design and development steps to prepare your next course. 

Instructors of all modalities can benefit from topics in the Backward Course Design short course: 

1. What is backwards design, and why should we develop courses this way?
2. Starting with (student-centered) outcomes
3. Assessment and alignment

Format and Time Commitment:

We are excited to use a combination approach for this session-- self-paced learning, synchronous meetings for sharing ideas with peers and the opportunity for one-on-one consultations. You decide what works best for you! Between October 31 and November 11 you will have access to a guided, self-paced training in Canvas that you complete at a time of your choosing during the two-week period. It takes about one hour to work through the materials--complete it all at once or over a couple of sessions. Additionally, once you have completed the self-paced learning experience, you will have the option to participate in a sharing out discussion in Canvas and/or a one-on-one consultation with an instructional designer to share, discuss and refine your ideas for backward design in your course.

You will receive information on how to self-enroll in the session in Canvas in a confirmation email when you register.

Please note that our training sessions are geared specifically toward faculty and instructional staff.

Learn more about the Course Development Institute here!

Photo by Alvaro Reyes on Unsplash