Curriculum FAQ's

Are the requirements for course documentation for face to face, on-line, accelerated, TCA and ITV different?
No. The core elements of course documentation (competencies, performance standards, learning objectives, program outcomes, core abilities) do not change based on the delivery method of a course. However, you can modify the syllabus, learning activities and assessments to best suit the needs of your students and the method of delivery.

How do I create an on-line course?
Creating an on-line course is similar to creating a traditional face to face course. Once the course documentation is complete (WIDS information), you need to develop and add learning activities and assessments, and learn how to manage the course in Blackboard. Delivery standards and expectations for Online Classes will also be reviewed in the development of an on-line course. For more information about on-line course development, please contact Learning Support Services!

How do I know if I have a project?
Course documentation projects are identified by your Dean/Associate Dean before the beginning of each fiscal year. You should be notified by your Dean/Associate Dean if you have a project. Please contact your Dean/Associate Dean is you are unsure.

How do I know when I am done with my project?
You will receive a verbal and e-mail confirmation from your instructional designer when your project is complete. All established standards must be satisfied before a project is complete. Your Dean and Associate Dean will receive that notification as well.

What if WIDS is not on my computer?
The WIDS software should be pre-loaded on your computer. You may have an icon on your computer desktop that you simply need to left click on to start. If that icon is not on your desktop, just left-click on the Start button, move your mouse to Programs, locate the WIDS 7 option, then left-click on WIDS 7. If you do not have WIDS on your computer, please contact an instructional designer in LSS to have this loaded on your computer.

What is course documentation?
Course documentation is the official record of a course offered at NWTC. Course documentation includes course competencies, performance standards, learning objectives and core abilities. This information is housed by the college and does not change from one course offering to another. For more information about the elements of course documentation, click here!

What is WIDS?
Worldwide Instructional Design Systems (WIDS) is a learner-centered, performance -based model of instructional design supported by the Wisconsin Technical College System. WIDS 7.5.3 is the software built upon the WIDS design model available to all faculty to organize and house course documentation and some supporting information. Recent updates to the WIDS software has made it much more user friendly than in the past, including the introduction of WIDS Wizards, that allow you to view the project/course as a whole. Click here to view help documents for the WIDS software.

What training is offered through Learning Support Services? When is this available?
LSS offers training on various topics through out the year. Click here to view the current training schedule. You can also contact an Instructional Designer for individual assistance or training.

What's required for official course documentation at NWTC?
NWTC follows the State Alignment model for course documentation. You can view more information about course documentation by clicking here!

Who do I contact to develop an on-line course?
You first need to discuss creating an on-line course with your Dean or Associate Dean as this is a program and department decision. Once you have the green light to create an on-line course, contact one of the instructional designers or on-line developers in Learning Support Services!

Who do I contact to work on a project?
Once your project is approved, a representative of Learning Support Services will contact you to begin working on a project. If you have any questions before you are contacted, please feel free to contact a LSS representative.