Online course review provides an opportunity for intentional reflection and improvement. Find information and practical resources to refresh your online course.
Process and Timeline
As part of an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and in collaboration with collegiate partners, Distance and Online Education (DOE) will launch a three-year review of online courses at the University of Iowa beginning in Summer 2026. Faculty and departments are encouraged to prepare for scheduled course reviews by utilizing available DIY resources, participating in training opportunities, and accessing course development support. Watch for campus communications with more details.
Reviews will take place on the following timeline:
- Summer 2026 - AY2025 online courses for the following colleges will be reviewed:
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and University College. - Summer 2027 - AY2026 online courses for the following colleges will be reviewed: Carver College of Medicine, College of Dentistry, College of Engineering, College of Law, College of Pharmacy, College of Public Health, Graduate College, and the Tippie College of Business.
- Summer 2028 - AY2027 online courses for the following colleges will be reviewed: College of Education and the College of Nursing.
DOE will provide associate deans with the results of their college’s online course reviews upon completion.
To further a commitment to continuous improvement and in collaboration with collegiate partners, Distance and Online Education will begin a three-year review of online courses offered at the University of Iowa in Summer 2026.
Course Improvement Resources
While online course reviews do not evaluate the entirety of the teaching and learning experience, they can provide helpful insights to bolster online course design and instructional effectiveness. Reviews are conducted using the 10 components outlined in the Course Essentials Checklist. The checklist is aligned with Quality Matters essential standards, the gold standard for assessing quality in online instructional practice. We encourage you to use the checklist to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement, and to use the DIY resources below or contact DOE for assistance if you identify any areas for improvement.
Integrate Online Course Essentials
Apply essential Quality Matters (QM) practices to your online course. Download the Course Essentials Checklist to use as a proactive self-evaluation tool.
Course Essentials ChecklisT (PDF) Course EssentialS Website
Find Practical Tips
Take a few simple steps to increase clarity and ease of use in your ICON site.
Review Effective Instruction Field Guides
Continue refining how you plan, build, and teach your online course.
Distance and Online Education (DOE) supports all aspects of designing and teaching an online course. Contact us with questions or to request assistance.