Use the guides below to refine how you plan, build, and teach your online course.
Start with the end in mind. Define meaningful learning outcomes and design a course experience that helps students achieve them.
Turn your course design into engaging online learning. Use content, activities, and media to focus attention on what matters most.
Create a supportive and engaging learning community. Use communication, feedback, and presence to guide learning throughout the semester.
Choose the Level of Support That Fits Your Needs
Effective Instruction Field Guides are available as both a web resource and as an ICON course!
- Explore the guides on this website for concise, evidence-based recommendations, and just-in-time support. Review reflection questions to spark new ideas!
- Enroll in the professional development course for a structured learning experience. Leave with a toolkit of polished, ready-to-use resources.
Effective Instruction: Guided Learning Experience
This self-directed course helps you build foundational knowledge of effective online teaching through evidence-based resources, reflection activities, and practical application. Progress at your own pace while developing strategies you can immediately apply to your online courses.
- Choose your path - get personalized recommendations and time estimates for completing each ICON module using the Plan | Build | Teach Inventories.
- AI-powered coaching - immediately use guidance from secure and private University Copilot Agents trained on instructional design frameworks.
- Get expert feedback - instructional designers review submissions to help grow your online teaching skillset.