12 Governing Policies and Procedures

How are online courses developed at FSW?

For online college faculty at FSW, the Florida SouthWestern State College Collective Negotiations Agreement outlines crucial points regarding online course development and teaching responsibilities:

• Online Course Development: Faculty collaborate with FSW online, department chairs, and deans to select and develop online courses. Developed courses are owned by the college, with intellectual property rights retained by the institution.
• Faculty Developer Selection and Responsibilities: Developers are chosen based on training, experience, and interest, responsible for maintaining course quality and adherence to FSW and Quality Matters standards.
• Individual Course Development: Faculty may develop courses independently without compensation, retaining ownership and control over sharing and use.
• Course Reviews: Courses undergo internal Quality Matters reviews to ensure standards are met, with periodic reviews every five years or as needed.
• Office Hours: Faculty teaching online may hold office hours remotely, with requirements adjusted based on the proportion of online teaching load, ensuring availability via synchronous technology like Zoom or Canvas Conference.

What certifications do FSW faculty members need for modalities with online instruction?

To ensure a smooth and effective online teaching experience, faculty members are required bu COP 03-0801 to achieve specific certifications depending on their course modality:

• Online Courses: Require completion of the Online Teaching Certification.
• Live Online Courses: Faculty must obtain both the Online Teaching and Live Online Certifications.
• Blended Courses: Also necessitate both the Online Teaching and Live Online Certifications.
• Live Flex Courses: Only the Live Online Certification is needed.

These certifications encompass essential competencies such as mastery of the Learning Management System (Canvas), fundamental technical skills, adherence to FSW online policies, and proficiency in Zoom and virtual classroom standards for live online formats. Additionally, continuous professional development in online pedagogy and technology is encouraged.

Course Development and Course Redesign for Courses Requiring Online Content

To streamline the creation and revamping of online content within courses, a structured process has been outlined in COP 03-802:

• Preparation Phase: Courses slated for online content are identified through collaboration between Academic Deans and Department Chairs or Program Directors.
• Expert Selection: Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with the right mix of certification, experience, and enthusiasm for online education are chosen for course development.
• Design Phase: SMEs craft a detailed course map for approval, utilizing a standardized template.
• Development Partnership: SMEs work alongside instructional designers to build courses meeting Quality Matters (QM) standards.
• Quality Assurance: Before being scheduled, new or redesigned courses are rigorously reviewed against the QM rubric to ensure they meet the highest educational quality standards.

This approach underscores the importance of planning, quality control, and collaboration in elevating online educational offerings.

General Course Operating Procedures for Modalities with Online Instruction

To maintain high-quality online instruction, faculty must adhere to these guidelines in COP 03-805:

• Semester Start: Ensure clear communication by providing a comprehensive syllabus, course introduction, updated term-specific information, and validated course links before the semester begins.
• Course Management: Engage in regular and substantive interaction with students, respond promptly to inquiries, provide timely feedback, and maintain an active presence in the course.
• Semester End: Post grades by the deadline specified on the Official College Calendar and comply with any required post-term communication with students.

This framework ensures that online courses are well-prepared, interactive, and conclude with timely assessments.

How do I ensure accessibility in my courses?

• Florida SouthWestern State College has a policy of equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities.
• Students with disabilities must request accommodations and provide documentation from a qualified professional.
• FSW values Universal Design for Learning, which promotes flexibility in accessing materials and instructional methods.
• The Canvas learning management system used by FSW conforms to accessibility guidelines and standards.
• Guides are available for creating accessible content in Canvas, including headings, alternative text, and audio/video accessibility