Design Active Engagement
Rather than simply “post the lecture video,” reconceive activities so students do work with content. Build modules around problem solving, case studies, real-world scenarios, or project-based tasks that require students to apply concepts, analyze data, or create outputs. Active learning is still the gold standard, even when teaching online.
Example activities:
- Small group debates or problem explorations in breakout rooms during synchronous time
- Asynchronous case study discussions with structured reflection questions
- Collaborative data analysis using shared documents or spreadsheets
Flip the Modality
When flipping from in-person to online, try the age-old flipped approach. Students might prepare for an activity with short videos or readings and then use small group or whole class synchronous time for active application, such as guided problem solving, peer instruction, and discussion.
Implementation tips:
- Pre-class tasks: 5–10 minute concept videos or brief readings + formative quiz
- Synchronous tasks: live case work, peer instruction, facilitated small groups
Center Collaboration
Active collaborative learning can be designed in both synchronous (e.g., Breakout Rooms) and asynchronous formats (e.g., group annotation, shared whiteboards). Research on collaborative and high-impact practices shows technology can mediate rich peer interaction essential for deeper learning.
Practical formats:
- Synchronous: breakout discussion with deliverables (shared slides, group responses)
- Asynchronous: collaborative annotation tools (Hypothesis), shared concept mapping, peer review cycles
Develop Projects
High-impact practices such as capstone projects, ePortfolios, research assignments, and community engagement can be adapted for online settings. These activities encourage sustained inquiry, integration of learning, and reflections across various spaces and time, making it suitable for asynchronous learning.
Project examples:
- Virtual research reports with scaffolded milestones
- Digital portfolios reflecting week-by-week learning
- Problem-based community research assignments
Maintain “regular and substantive interaction” with intentional instructor presence
Faculty should be visibly present and actively facilitate learning—go beyond simply uploading materials on Canvas. Instructor presence (via announcements, feedback, synchronous facilitation) correlates with greater engagement and learning success in online teaching.
Ways to show presence:
- Synchronous Q&A or workshop sessions tied to assessment deadlines
- Brief weekly video updates or reflections
- Targeted feedback on student submissions
Balance synchronous and asynchronous to support access and engagement
Inside Higher Ed (see reference below) highlights that neither purely synchronous nor purely asynchronous delivery is ideal for all students; thoughtful blending supports structure, community, and flexibility. Synchronous sessions can be used for interactive workshops and peer engagement, while asynchronous modules allow careful reflection and schedule flexibility.
Blended design ideas:
- Asynchronous: core content and individual reflection tasks
- Synchronous: problem-based group activities, simulations, small group coaching
Use authentic assessments that mirror real work in the discipline
Given the presence of AI, rather than traditional exams, consider assessments that promote creation, analysis, and synthesis—such as portfolios, debates, simulations, or service-learning reflections.
Assessment examples:
- Design and peer-review of mini-presentations or portfolios
- Virtual simulations with reflective analysis
- Group capstone deliverables
Provide structured collaborative spaces and protocols
Whether synchronous or asynchronous, collaborative work benefits from clear roles, shared products, and checkpoints. Group contracts, rubrics, and scheduled check-ins help ensure accountability and deeper engagement. Cooperative learning frameworks also increase belonging and social presence in remote settings.
References
https://ecampus.oregonstate.edu/research/publications/high-impact-practices/
As a reminder, The Harte Center and Harte Center Academic Technologies are available to assist with the creation of digital course content and assignments.