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Distance Education Course Orientation Components

The orientation provides distance education students with the critical information they need to get started and be successful in a class. Instructors are required to provide an orientation for each distance education course section. A well-structured orientation establishes the foundation and sets the tone for student-instructor communication for the semester. It should include an overview of course objectives, a list of instructional materials and technologies to be used, state the instructor’s expectations, and describe ACC and distance education support resources.

Six Core Topic Areas

Based on the research of the best practices of other institutions, there are six established six core topic areas that are recommended for inclusion in your online course orientation:

  • Welcome
  • Essential Course Information
  • Course Map
  • College Policies and Resources
  • Technical Support
  • Orientation Review

effective online Orientation graphic