A self paced, learning-centered approach to course design

Just-in-Time Course Design is a self-paced online module available to all McGill instructors in myCourses.

Learning outcomes for this module:

  • Describe learning-centered course design principles and strategies.
  • Apply these principles and strategies to the (re)design of your course by developing a Course Alignment Plan with identified …
    • learning outcomes
    • assessment tasks
    • teaching strategies

Time commitment

We estimate three hours to complete the module, which can be at any time and at your own pace. Time for reflection and to work on your Course Alignment Plan are in addition and will vary on an individual basis.

Access Just-in-Time Course Design:

To access the module, make sure you are logged into myCourses and are assigned an instructor role. 

Once you click on "open course," the module will be added to your account. 

Fill out this form if you need assistance. 

Did you know?

We also offer online and in-person course design workshops. 

See all course design options

Course design FAQ

Which course design offering should I take part in?

 You can access our course design offerings in three different formats:

The offering you decide to attend might depend on the date by which you need to design your course, the amount of time you have available, and the amount of support you need. You can find a comparison of the three offerings in this table.

Can I take the course design offerings more than once?

 Absolutely! We invite you to take part in a course design offering each time you (re)design a course.

What is the difference between a Course Alignment Plan and a Course Plan?

 A Course Alignment Plan (CAP) is a template designed to help you map out your course so that you have a guide for continuing your course design. Once you have filled it in, the CAP provides an overview of the alignment among course learning outcomes, assessments, and teaching strategies. A CAP is the main output of Just-in-Time Course Design and Course Design Essentials.

A Course Plan is a more in-depth planning document that you create to help develop your course outline. A Course Plan is the main output of the Course Design Workshop.

Can I take part in a course design offering even I do not have a specific course to design?

 Course design is most valuable when the principles and strategies can be applied. 

For the Course Design Workshop, it is essential that you identify a specific course to work on during the workshop. 

For our other (self-paced and online) offerings, it is recommended you work on designing a specific course, but it is not required.

Can I take part in a course design offering if I am a teaching assistant?

 Our course design offerings are designed for instructors. Teaching assistants can take part in our TA training at the beginning of each term.

Can I take part in a course design offering if I'm not teaching a course at McGill?

 Sorry, no. Our course design offerings are designed for McGill instructors teaching courses for McGill students. 

Resources are freely available in the Teaching and Learning Knowledge Base for those who wish to learn more about learning-centered approaches to teaching.

What if I need more support to design or teach a course?

 McGill instructors can request a consultation for additional support related to teaching and learning at McGill.