An Inside Look at Online Curriculum: Interview with an Instructional Designer

What’s the difference between online and traditional curriculum? How do those differences impact students who are looking to take advantage of the benefits of online education?

We asked Scott Bulfa, an instructional designer, to provide his perspective on curriculum in higher education. In the following interview, he offers an inside look at what instructional designers do to enhance learning for online students. He also elaborates on what online students need to know to enhance their experience.

1. What does an average day as a curriculum designer / instructional designer look like?

Most of an (instructional designer’s) day can be divided into two basic sections: A) discussions/communication with instructors and program coordinators at the schools and B) project management and posting content sent by instructors in the course shells we’ve set up for them in the learning management system used by that particular school.

2. What are you responsible for overall?

We are trying to encourage and guide instructors into creating the best possible online experience for their students. While keeping in mind that the instructor we are communicating with is the subject matter expert of a particular course, (instructional designers) try to present best practices for online education. These best practices might include, for example, accessibility or Universal Design for Learning principles that might not have occurred to the instructor before our consultation.

3. What are you responsible for on a more daily basis?

On a daily basis, there is usually quite a bit of email communication with the instructors and program coordinators at my schools. Questions about when we should set up phone calls and meetings, questions about online education in general, specifics about how to set up assignments in learning management systems, questions about course orders, gathering material from instructors and posting that content in the course shells.

4. What are the major differences between online curriculum and traditional/face-to-face curriculum design?

I would say that one of the biggest differences between the two is the different type of engagement that students are likely to experience in online courses. As opposed to just the very basic level of engagement that seems inherent in a face-to-face classroom where you are literally sitting next to other faces, there can be more a more remote feeling between online students and instructors. This is one of the areas that we really try to coach instructors (on) who are new to the online environment. The potential lack of engagement can be countered, to some extent at least, by (the) use of student participation in discussion forums and more direct and individual instructor contact with students. The use of technology and student choice in assignments can also be used to increase engagement, for example allowing students to choose to fulfill an assignment by creating a video and posting it in a discussion forum for other students to view and comment on. Online courses, parenthetically, are often more conducive to the use of technology in these ways, where similar use in face-to-face classrooms might be harder to apply in individual assignments.

Also, we try to highlight the strong points of online courses, that are the generally unacknowledged weaknesses of face-to-face classrooms. Online courses can cater to students’ busy schedules. There is a flexibility to online course work that just can’t be duplicated in the classroom. Online courses, when designed well, lay out the week’s work clearly for students and give them the flexibility to get that work done at their own pace. Some students like to do the work on a daily basis, for instance, much like they would in a face-to-face class, while others may have a lighter schedule in one portion of their week, and these students can choose to do the week’s work in larger chunks of time at these more convenient times of the week.

5. From a student’s perspective, what are those major differences?

Again, a major difference involves the greater freedom in terms of time and flexibility. Students don’t have to show up for class at a certain time, or have such a set time for having assignments done on a specific day of class. They would, instead, typically have an assignment due by the end of the week, (and) they would determine when exactly they would do the work to make sure the assignment is done on time.

But the thing for students to keep in mind is that this greater freedom also entails more responsibility on their own part to keep up with the weekly resources and course work.

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6. What do you think a student considering online classes should know prior to enrolling?

I would keep the points above in mind. There are differences between online and face-to-face environments, and there are pros and cons. Students should be aware of the differences and how different strategies as students might be necessary.

7. How do students become successful in an online learning environment?

Students should have knowledge of the differences between the online and face-to-face environments and plan their learning strategies accordingly.

If the online course is designed well, there will be more student choices, and they can pick their strengths as students and minimize their weaker points. In addition, a well-designed online course can cater to different types of students. Students might be able to take a practice quiz for a week’s lesson, for example, so they can gauge how well they’ve mastered that week’s objectives. If they find that they need some additional work to really grasp that week’s concepts, a well-designed course will have provided them with supplemental materials they can consult to give them more help.

8. What are a few tips to help a student ensure success in an online learning environment?

For the most part, they need to be able to navigate the differences between online and face-to-face environments and make sure that they realize that despite the flexibility and freedom, online courses will require them to do just as much work as they would in a face-to-face classroom.

9. What are the similarities between online classrooms and traditional classrooms?

The similarities are that there are equivalent amounts of course work and that there are expectations in both environments. There will be deadlines that have to be met and students should know that they should seek help if they find themselves falling behind those expectations and deadlines.

The Quality and Flexibility of Online Learning

Instructional designers like Scott Bulfa ensure that online courses meet students’ needs. That includes providing learners with a high-quality learning experience that teaches them the skills and knowledge need to pursue their goals. And, of course, all of that occurs in a convenient, flexible environment that enables students to learn while maintaining personal and professional commitments.

AS in Business Administration LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$399: Learn the fundamental business skills necessary for a career in business administration, including finance, economics, accounting, and more with the online Associate of Science in Business Administration degree program from Campbellsville University. Topics of study include accounting principles, fundamentals of microeconomics and macroeconomics, concepts and analytical tools used in finance, marketing concepts, human resource management, management principles, and more.
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BS in Business Administration: Management
BS in Business Administration: Human Resource Management
BS in Business Administration: Healthcare Management
BS in Business Administration: Accounting
BS in Business Administration: Marketing
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Online Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, ACBSP Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: Earning a BS/BAS in Business Administration from Methodist University‘s Reeves School of Business provides a ACBSP accredited degree that lets you launch or advance your career in nearly any field. Curriculum prepares graduates with a knowledge base in human resources, management, sales, market research, finance, and consulting, positioned for job acquisition, promotion, or income growth. 100% online, you can transfer up to 93 credits to this 124 credit hour program that incorporates group work, case studies, and faculty equipped to guide your interests into a best match filed of business. Methodist University is a Yellow Ribbon School.
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Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work LocationSouth Euclid, OH Accreditation(s)HLC, HLC (Pursuing CSWE) Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$475: One of only two schools in the greater-Cleveland area to offer the Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Notre Dame College is also accepting students with no wait-list. The degree program offers the kind of field practicum that leads to job placement, prepared to become a Licensed Independent Social Worker soon after graduation.
Online Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Applied Science in Accounting LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, AACSB Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: Methodist University offers a Bachelor of Science that produces graduates with financial and economic expertise in business growth and earning while the 62-Credit Bachelor of Applied Science in Accounting is an alternative to advancing your associate degree. Both fully-online, graduates are eligible for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exams in several states including North Carolina.
Online Bachelor of Social Work LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, CSWE Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: MU’s online Bachelor of Social Work degree delivers a multi-faceted that leaves graduates prepared academically, emotionally, and with needed accreditation for a meaningful career of impact and advocacy. Dedicated, experienced faculty deliver a highly specialized program designed to generate critical thinking, practical solutions, and outcomes of socio-economic justice resulting from advanced decision-making capabilities in the field. In addition to an interdisciplinary curricular approach covering courses in biology, psychology, and sociology, this Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited and NC-CWEC recognized program provides active internship opportunities qualifying participating students for Child Welfare placements upon graduation.
Online RN to BS LocationDeKalb, IL Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$348: A career-advancing RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from Northern Illinois University can be completed in as little as 1 year. Study on a flexible schedule that doesn’t conflict with professional commitments, so you lose no time as you continue as a licensed RN earning a CCNE-accredited bachelor’s degree. Gain essential skills in critical thinking, health assessment, and evidence-based practice as you complete your practicum at a health care facility in your own community. Experienced faculty will guide your exploration of a complex health care system, preparing you to benefit patient outcomes and improve systems and processes in population-focused healthcare. Credentials and learned skills will help you stand out as a candidate and leader in an industry where advanced degrees are preferred and at times required. Apply up to 33 credits from your previous nursing education toward your bachelor’s degree and complete 12 hours of nursing credit to transfer your credits.
Online RN to BSN LocationFayetteville, NC Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP, AACN, DPI, CCNE Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$400: The online RN to BSN from Methodist University propels the professional profile of actively working nurses. For those who have completed their associate degree and have an unrestricted RN license, the online RN to BSN allows students to accelerate affordably through BSN courses in as little as 12 months and provides the credential for advancement. The CCNE-accredited curriculum helps refine nursing skills to develop the most patient-centered care by combining nursing theory and practice with courses in health policy, evidence-based practice applications, pathophysiology, public health nursing, and beside care. Gain an advantage in job consideration and locate a position of preference for entering diverse health care and medical environments.
RN to BSN LocationBoston, MA Accreditation(s)NECHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$350: Designed for current registered nurses seeking to further their education and advance their careers, Emmanuel College’s online RN to BSN program offers the flexibility to balance your studies with the demanding schedule of a professional nurse. The program’s accelerated format and option to transfer up to 96 credits allow you to earn your degree in 16 months.
RN to BSN LocationJacksonville, IL Accreditation(s)HLC Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$375: Illinois College’s fully online RN to BSN program is designed to educate nurses for the needs of the future and covers a host of essential topics for advancing your education, such as bioethics, health policy, nursing research, and disease management. The accelerated program can be completed in as little as 12 months.
RN to BSN LocationBristol, TN Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Cost Per Credit$330: The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program from King University provides an educational opportunity for current registered nurses who want to further their education and advance their career by earning a bachelor’s degree. The program is designed as a transformational learning experience leading to personal and professional skill development to meet the needs of registered nurses previously prepared at the ADN or diploma level.
RN to BSN LocationSouth Euclid, OH Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$240: Build your competency as a medical professional and earn the credential you need to advance in your career with the online RN to BSN program at Notre Dame College. Designed for working nurses, the program increases your capacity to improve patient outcomes, improves your leadership skills, and readies you to become an effective change maker in your organization as you gain practical training in the field.
RN to BSN LocationBaltimore, MD Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$375: Transform your nursing career and earn an in-demand degree with the online RN to BSN degree program from Notre Dame of Maryland University. Gain the skills and knowledge needed to enhance your career opportunities in nursing while fulfilling the educational requirements of many healthcare employers. The program can be completed in as little as 15 months.
RN to BSN LocationPortsmouth, OH Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$278: Led by experienced nurse educators, Shawnee State University’s RN to BSN online program features small class sizes, personalized attention, and dedication to your future success. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the accelerated curriculum equips you with the quality education needed to advance your career or pursue graduate studies.
RN to BSN LocationNashua, NH Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACEN Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$360: Advance your nursing career and impact the lives of others with an ACEN-accredited RN to BSN online from Rivier University. Graduates of this program are prepared for leadership positions and master’s-level educational opportunities. The program’s flexible, convenient format can be designed around professional and personal schedules. Students with an active RN license will be awarded transfer credit for their experience and can finish the program faster.
RN to BSN LocationPensacola, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$282.13: Gain more skills for career advancement in nursing and increased earning potential with the online RN to BSN from the University of West Florida. Through the program, you will demonstrate your commitment to the nursing profession as you advance your knowledge in evidence-based nursing practice, high-quality care, communication, and leadership. The CCNE-accredited program is taught by educators who are highly experienced in a variety of areas in the field, and you will gain their insight into nursing practices and the healthcare system.
RN to BSN LocationSt. Paul, MN Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE Religious AffiliationLutheran Cost Per Credit$420: Concordia University, St. Paul’s online RN to BSN program advances the knowledge and skills of nursing professionals through an integration of learning and experience. Using a combination of theoretical inquiry and practical application, you will gain insight into ethics in healthcare, professional and evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration and communication, leadership, management, care coordination, and community health.
RN to BSN LocationReading, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE CCNE, CCNE* The RN to BSN Completion Program at Alvernia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). Religious AffiliationFranciscan Roman Catholic Cost Per Credit$480: With Alvernia University’s online RN to BSN program, you can earn the credentials you need to pursue broader responsibilities and career opportunities within nursing. The program teaches you advanced nursing skills as you also explore historical and contemporary issues and future trends. Because of the program’s online format, you can earn your degree while maintaining your busy schedule and learn from faculty who are experienced in a variety of clinical practice and professional leadership roles.
RN to BSN LocationMishawaka, IN Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$405: Bethel University’s RN to BSN online program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and practical training you need to take on more challenging roles in your workplace and advance in your profession. Designed for working professionals, the program’s curriculum trains you in a host of areas required for the modern nurse, such as pharmacology, patient and family centered care, community-based nursing, global health, nursing informatics, and more.
RN to MSN LocationTeaneck, NJ Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationPrivate Cost Per Credit$725: Fairleigh Dickinson University’s online RN-MSN saves you time and money in earning the credentials you need to be recognized as a nurse leader and qualify for management roles. This program is designed to give registered nurses the opportunity to complete requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree on their way to earning their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Because we accept 90 associate degree credits, you can fast-track your online RN to MSN and make the most of your previous nursing education. Choose the track that matches your career goals — become a nurse educator, or a family nurse practitioner.
RN to MSN LocationPensacola, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit282.13 and 425: The University of West Florida’s accelerated RN to MSN online program is designed for registered nurses who are ready to continue their education with advanced credentials. It allows you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on your way to completing your master’s, saving time and money. By completing the BSN program, you will earn 12 credit hours at the undergraduate rate which will be applied toward your Master of Science in Nursing