Selecting Learning Materials
The NLU Library is an important resource for subject matter experts. Subject Matter Expert will research and recommend appropriate learning materials. The learning materials should align with the module, course and program learning outcomes. NLU has additional guidance requiring learning development teams to make sure that the selected learning materials are culturally appropriate, affordable, and current.
The librarian assigned to your course design team can help:
- Identify relevant and current (ideally less than 5 years old unless considered seminal material) library ebooks, articles, streaming videos, open electronic resources (OERs), and other course materials available at no additional cost to students. Librarians can provide a list of suggested materials based on topic areas and/or learning outcomes; the SME is responsible for selecting and finalizing course readings, though colleges and programs may have existing requirements around pricing that should be understood before finalizing.
- Consult on copyright issues and the course reserves process.
- Review the final draft of the course map to ensure course learning materials have been presented with:
- Correct and complete APA style citations
- Appropriate and sustainable permanent links
Helpful Links
- Find books and articles using Library One Search
- Linking to library resources in D2L
- APA Style: https://libguides.nl.edu/apastyle
- Understanding Citing and Plagiarism: https://libguides.nl.edu/plagiarism
- Academic Honesty: https://libguides.nl.edu/teachingacademichonesty
- Faculty Resources: https://libguides.nl.edu/faculty_resources
Below are some additional tips for selecting learning materials for online and blended courses.
When selecting learning materials for online and blended courses, subject matter experts should consider several key points, such as:
- Learning Objectives: The learning materials should align with the course and module learning objectives and support the desired learning outcomes.
- Course Format: The format of the course, whether it's online or blended, should be taken into account when selecting learning materials. For instance, materials that work well in a face-to-face setting may not always be suitable for an online format.
- Accessibility: The materials should be accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities. This includes ensuring that the materials are available in alternative formats and that they are compatible with assistive technologies.
- Engagement: The materials should be engaging and interactive, encouraging learners to actively participate in the learning process.
- Diversity and Inclusion: The materials should reflect the diversity of the learners and be inclusive of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. To ensure that our course materials are inclusive and representative of the diversity of our learners, we should make a deliberate effort to include representation from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. This can be achieved by actively seeking out and incorporating diverse materials, such as readings, case studies, and examples, that accurately reflect the experiences and perspectives of our learners. Additionally, we can encourage learners to share their own experiences and perspectives, creating a learning environment that values and respects the diversity of all participants.
- Appropriateness: The materials should be appropriate for the level of the course and the learners' prior knowledge and experience.
- Quality and Reliability: The materials should be of high quality and reliable, ensuring that the information presented is accurate and up-to-date.
- Cost: The cost of the materials should be taken into account, as well as any licensing or copyright restrictions.
- Technology Requirements: Different learning materials may require different technology tools, and subject matter experts should ensure that the materials are compatible with the technology available to learners. For example, if a material requires a specific software, the subject matter expert should check if learners have access to that software.
By considering these key points, subject matter experts can select learning materials that will effectively support the learning objectives and engage the learners in an online or blended course.
