Course Site Housekeeping
From ElateWiki
Part of the work of managing an online class involves course site "housekeeping." This refers to the efforts made to keep an online course tidy--for reference (during the term) as well as for record-keeping when the digital course is archived (many systems digitally archive courses). Depending on the number of students, the complexity of the course, course length, and interactivity, courses can get very disorganized in a short time.
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Digital File Types and Proper File Naming Protocols
Instructors may define the types of digital file types used for homework, assignments and presentations. They may also suggest file naming protocols, so easier organization.
Correct Locations to Submit Work
One major issue is defining the correct locations to submit digital work. Sometimes, work will be dropped into any old forum, and that leads to confusion and disorder. If an instructor has to go back to find an assignment, it should be in a specified forum. The digital homework needs to be clearly labeled. It should be fairly easy to track student works.
It helps to define the file types that may be submitted. If students post work that will not be openable, they'll often start a whole chain of postings to try to "get it right," and that leads to plenty of click-throughs for the instructor and other learners, who are trying to chase the work for the learning (and the crediting).
Clear Start and End Dates
Having clear start and end dates for when particular work is due may help maintain a sense of order in an online course. Without clear deadlines, work may come in irregularly, and that'll mean constant checking of a wide number of forums. Being flexible is an important approach in online teaching, but there do need to be clear limits in general.
Proper Naming Protocols
If students are expected to interact, their threads need to be clearly labeled. And learners themselves may wish to label their own message board threads as they change the subject or add value to a discussion. Any method to differentiate their ideas from others would be helpful.
File names should also be clearly selected to represent contents and authorship. Having consistent file naming protocols will be important for all those involved in the e-learning.