More FAQs: Teaching Online @UM-D
Q. Does CASL have a Course Management System available for me to use?
A. Yes. CTools is an Open Source Course Management System developed at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor campus. It is based on the SAKAI Open Source Courseware. Along with the usual tools that most course management systems have, it also has a tool for developing linear and modular learning units, a tool for “podcasting” lectures on iTunesU, and a Wiki tool.
Q. May I use the Course Management System for courses that I teach in the classroom?
A. Yes, definitely. We encourage you to do so. Any faculty member may use CTools to create a course space. You may also use your “My Workspace” within CTools for storing files of any type. Think of it as an extra hard drive, but one that you may reach from anywhere you have Internet access. Can I get help, if I do? Yes, see the question on support and resources below.
Q. What do I have to do to develop a totally online course?
A. Let the Distance Learning Office know that you plan to teach the course online. Is this a new course or an existing course? If it is a NEW course, the course must go through the proper channels for course approval. If it is an EXISTING course, you will need to submit the course change paperwork (much simpler and easier). It is always a good idea to talk over your plans with the colleagues in your discipline. Once the course has been approved and you have informed the Distance Learning Office about it, the next steps are to develop and publish the course site.
Q. Is there a stipend available for development?
A. In general, no. Our funding is very, very limited. However, if this is considered a “crucial” course to fill in our online programming gaps, then funding possibly may be available. Check for opportunities for grant funding, especially if your course is a highly sought after course, or if your course will reach out to underserved populations. For support other than a stipend, see the next question
Q. What other support is available?
A1. Tech and multi-media support: See DL Teaching: Tech Support.
A2. Some instructional design support: See the CASL DL Director.
A3. Pedagogical support: See the CASL DL Director.
A4. Scanning: See the CASL DL Office.
A5. Training: Ask the CASL DL Office to enroll you into the CTools Course "Faculty Development-Teaching Online".
A6. Sample Official Courses: Ask the CASL DL Office.
A7. "Faculty Space" in the DL Office with a computer and scanner and available headset with microphone.
A8. Lecture Recording: We have two "record to MP3 file" hand-held recorders that may be borrowed from our office to record your lectures (limited time, please). CASL Technical Services has an additional one.