We know that teaching at a distance has unique benefits and challenges. Our team is committed to providing faculty and staff with the support and resources needed for online and distance education planning, development and implementation.

Resources include the online course development process, best practices for online course design and teaching, information about Quality Matters, including professional development workshops, links to Zoom and Blackboard information, and more!

If you have a specific question, please don't hesitate to contact us!

Office location: CEEE 16
Support hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
Phone: 319-273-7740
Email: cesp-consult@uni.edu

Instructor Barbara Bakker writes on chalkboard during class

Teaching at a Distance

The Office of Online & Distance Education is committed to providing leadership in the planning, promotion, support and administration of credit courses and programs that fall outside “traditional” on-campus coursework to expand access to high-quality educational opportunities available from the University of Northern Iowa. 

Faculty Professional Development Opportunities

Online Course Development Stipend

The Office of Online and Distance Education offers course development stipends for faculty and staff interested in obtaining funds to assist with the initial development of a credit course using Blackboard and Quality Matters (QM) standards.

Online Course Design - Quality Matters (QM)

Quality Matters (QM) is a nationally recognized, faculty-centered, peer-reviewed process used to ensure the quality of online and blended course design.

We offer in-house and QM workshops where faculty can collaborate with facilitators and peers on course design. Learn the basics about learning objectives and move up to using innovative tools to bolster engagement and accessibility.

Teaching Strategies

We offer in-house and Quality Matters workshops where faculty can collaborate with facilitators and peers on teaching strategies. Build community in even the largest enrollment courses, promote active, real-world learning with a number of proven activities, and explore tools to enhance student learning and engagement.