Teaching Online at WSU
Written by: Anne-Marie Armstrong and Kristi Verbeke
Many WSU departments and faculty are interested in the idea of teaching online. In fact, a few programs have already taken steps toward offering fully online degrees, and several others are investigating the development of their own online programs. The advantage of an online format is that students from anywhere in the world can complete Wayne State courses without physically traveling to campus. University-provided tools such as the library electronic services, Blackboard, email, podcasting, video and web conferencing, and the newest online tool, Wimba Live Classroom, make this possible.
The Office for Teaching and Learning supports online teaching and learning in a number of different ways. The first is by providing workshops for faculty who want to offer online or blended (part on-campus, part online) classes. Some of the OTL workshops geared toward teaching online include:
- Moving Your Course Online (a seminar exploring the pedagogical aspects of teaching online)
- Blackboard Basics
- Advanced Blackboard 1, 2 & 3
- Two Wimba courses
- Blogs and Wikis in Academia
- Transforming Your Presentation: Streaming PowerPoint
For those unable to attend a workshop or with more specific online teaching needs, OTL staff members are always available for individual consultations. Also, library staff members provide consultations, electronic resources, and assistance in obtaining books, papers, and other research material in electronic form.
In addition to workshops and individual consulting, the OTL participates in university-wide selection committees that review and select software for enabling and enhancing online teaching. Once the appropriate tool is selected, the OTL provides training for faculty in the use of equipment and software.
If you’re considering moving your course online, view our workshop calendar for available sessions or contact the OTL for more information and resources.
Anne-Marie Armstrong, PhDInstructional Designer, Office for Teaching & Learning
dv3709@wayne.edu
(313) 577-5605
Kristi Verbeke, MEdProgram Coordinator, Office for Teaching & Learning
af5315@wayne.edu
(313) 577-6448