Preparation Checklist

Prepare an instructional continuity plan for your course. Your plan can include a variety of tools and pedagogical approaches.

Steps to take before a closure:

1. Consider the following questions regarding how you might adjust your face-to-face class session in the event of a University closure.
   1. What elements of your face-to-face class sessions can be supplemented using online content?
   2. Could you record and post your lecture content for students if a class session is canceled? (See Echo360 on tools page)
   3. Can interactive elements of your face-to-face sessions be translated to online activities? (See Discussion Board and VoiceThread options on tools page)
   4. Do you want to host a live/synchronous class meeting using Blackboard Collaborate in lieu of a face-to-face class meeting? (See Synchronous Class Online options on tools page)  
2. Review tools for instructional continuity and training materials to prepare. Visit the Libraries & Academic Innovation website for a list of upcoming workshop opportunities.
3. Decide which instructional continuity options you will use during a closure. Take time to explore and practice with any technologies you might use in the event of a closure. You might also consider integrating those same technologies into your regular class activities/assignments as an opportunity to familiarize yourself and your students with their usage.
4. Establish your plans for communicating with students in the event of a closure at the beginning of the term. Share those plans in-class, on your syllabi, and electronically via Blackboard.

Steps to take during a closure:

1. Communicate your instructional continuity plans for that day’s class session by sending an email to your students via Blackboard. 
2. Review just-in-time training materials.

The Instructional Core provides training and personalized guidance on the tools and best practices for virtual learning. Please contact the Instructional Core by email at [email protected] or by phone at (202) 994-0485 or see this list of upcoming workshops. 

Steps to take before a closure:

1. Review your individual class syllabi for your instructors’ instructional continuity plans.
2. Familiarize yourself with the tools your instructors will use for instructional continuity. 

Steps to take during a closure:

1. Check your GW email account and your Blackboard course(s) for specific instructions from your instructor.