The Course Map and Templates

First Things First: Grab Your Template

Ready to get started? The first step is to grab the official template. Be sure to make your own copy so you have full editing freedom. (Please don't request edit access to the master file!)

Working with our LXD team? Awesome! In that case, we'll provide a personalized map template for you during our kickoff meeting, so you can skip the steps below.

1. Download the template file to get started.
2. Give it a clear new name using the file-naming guide further down this page.
3. Share your copy with your LxD and your Program Director or Chair so everyone can collaborate.

Course Development Map - 2 Modality, 2025

Course Development Map - 1 Modality, 2025

A note on multiple modalities: If your course runs in more than one format (like online and in-person), you can either complete one map for each or clearly mark the differences within a single file. The key is to make it obvious what changes between modalities.

Let's Fill It Out: A Step-by-Step Guide

Completing the map is where your course really starts to take shape. Here’s a walkthrough of the key sections:

1. Start with the Basics: Course Info & Outcomes. Copy and paste the official course information and Course Level Outcomes (CLOs) from the approved curriculum.
2. Break It Down: Modules & Module Level Outcomes. Now, plan your modules (typically one per week). For each, write specific, measurable Module Level Outcomes (MLOs). A handy formula is: Verb + Object + Condition. (Example: Analyze customer interview notes to identify three themes.)
3. Plan Your Assessments. For every graded item, detail its purpose, point value, due week, and where students will submit it in D2L. Don't forget to add a link to your rubric!
4. Design the Weekly Flow. This is the heart of the student experience. Describe what students will *do* each week. How will they get feedback? Is it solo work or a group effort?
5. Select Your Materials. Choose current, relevant resources. Whenever you can, grab stable library permalinks. Our librarians are always happy to help you find OER or other licensed options!
6. Do a Quick Workload Check. Estimate the time required for your recurring activities (like discussions or quizzes). This is a huge help for the final Credit Hour Compliance audit.
7. Share Your Draft! When you have a solid draft, send it over to your LxD for an initial review before we start building it in D2L.

Defining Success: The Power of a Good Rubric

Rubrics are one of our best tools for setting clear expectations. They show students what "good" looks like and help ensure grading is fair and consistent. Here's what makes a great rubric:

• Each criterion clearly connects back to a learning outcome.
• The descriptions for each performance level are specific and observable.
• The language and point values are consistent for similar skills across the course.
• It's attached directly to the activity in D2L and referenced in the Course Map.

For example, for a criterion like "Uses evidence to support claims," your performance levels could range from "No evidence provided" to "Integrates multiple relevant sources with correct citation."

Choosing Your Resources: Fueling the Learning

Let's choose materials that are effective, engaging, and accessible to every student. As you select your resources, keep these points in mind:

• Be purposeful. Match every resource to a specific outcome or activity.
• Be accessible. Use formats that include captions, transcripts, and alt text.
• Be mindful of cost. Favor affordable options and always note when a purchase is required.
• Be inclusive. Include diverse perspectives and examples from your field.
• Be precise. Provide stable links and full citations to make the D2L build process a breeze.
• Be resourceful. If you replace a textbook, note the OER or library alternative you chose.

Feeling stuck? Our librarians are here to help! They can assist with everything from OER suggestions to citation guidance.

Stay Organized: Naming and Sharing Your File

Using a consistent file name helps everyone on the team find the right version quickly. It's a small thing that makes a big difference!

• The Format: ProgramCourseNumber_CourseMap_Modality_TermVersion.docx
• An Example: CAR204_CourseMap_Online_FA25_v1.0.docx
• How to Share: Simply upload your map to a cloud service like Google Drive and share the link with your LxD and Program Director.

The Home Stretch: Our Review and Approval Path

Once your draft is ready, it will move through these key stages on its way to becoming a live D2L course.

1. Self-Check: You'll start by reviewing your own work with our Quality Review Checklist.
2. LxD Review: Your design partner will review the map for alignment, accessibility, and workload.
3. Program Review: Your Program Director or Chair will review and approve the plan.
4. Compliance Audit: We'll complete the official Credit Hour Compliance audit.
5. Final Sign-Off: Once the D2L course is built, you'll give it a final review and sign-off!

Heads up: If you need to make any major changes after approval, just let your LxD know so we can keep the Course Map and the D2L shell perfectly in sync.

A Few Common Stumbling Blocks (and How to Sidestep Them)

As you work, try to steer clear of these common pitfalls. A little planning here goes a long way!

• Outcomes that are vague, hard to measure, or don't match the assessments.
• Activities that are missing clear instructions or a plan for feedback.
• Links that are broken, unstable, or require a login that students don't have.
• Missing time estimates that can cause issues with Credit Hour Compliance.
• Rubrics that are mentioned in the map but not attached to the assignment in D2L.

Quick Questions? We've Got Answers (FAQ)