Required

The Quality Assurance Rubric, for the Course Overview Section 1.2 states: 

I.2 A welcome statement introduces the student to the course and to the structure of the student learning, as well as how the student will be successful in the course.

Expectations

1. You should describe the course to students, along with other information like the schedule or pace, course activities, testing procedures, etc.
2. Provide a statement that gives the new student an idea of how the learning process is structured including schedule, communication modes, types of activities, and assessments. These features should be found in the syllabus also.
3. Provide some or all of the following:
   • The course schedule (self-paced, following a set calendar, etc.), including a full schedule for the semester--including assessment due dates--and if applicable, a general weekly schedule.
   • Course sequencing, such as a linear or random order
   • Types of activities in which the student will be required to engage (written assignments, online self-tests, discussions, group work, etc.)
   • Course calendar with assignment and test due dates
   • Preferred mode of communication with the instructor (email, discussion board, etc.)
   • Preferred mode of communication with other students
   • Testing procedures (online, proctored, etc.)
   • Procedure for submission of electronic assignments
4. Information/tips should be provided to the student articulating how they will be successful in the course.

Examples

• This can be in a welcome/introductory letter located in the Overview and Content section and/or a news item on the course homepage.
• To emphasize student success, provide things like study tips or peer advice, and/or encourage students to form study groups, etc.

References

• QM FIPSE rubric I.2
• QOLT 4.2

Here are three example statements for introducing students to an online course and outlining the structure of their learning:

Example 1:

Hello and welcome to Introduction to Philosophy!

I’m so excited to start this journey with you! Philosophy is all about asking the big questions: What is truth? What is justice? What does it mean to live a good life? In this course, we’ll explore these ideas together, and the weekly discussions will be your opportunity to share your thoughts and learn from your peers.

Each week, you’ll have readings and videos to get you thinking, followed by a discussion question that encourages critical engagement. I’ll join in too, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bounce ideas around with me and your classmates. Reflective essays will give you the chance to dive deeper into specific topics that resonate with you.

Tips for Success:
To succeed in this course, approach each topic with an open mind and a willingness to explore new perspectives. Engage fully in discussions by sharing your thoughts and responding to others with curiosity and respect. Finally, start your essays early to give yourself time to reflect and refine your ideas. I’m here to help if you have any questions along the way!

Looking forward to learning with you,
Professor Lee

Example 2:

Hi everyone!

Welcome to Fundamentals of Computer Science! This course is organized into bi-weekly modules to help you learn step-by-step. Here’s what you can expect:

• Bi-Weekly Modules: Each module focuses on a key topic, such as algorithms, data structures, or debugging.
• Hands-On Practice: You’ll complete coding labs and assignments to apply what you’ve learned.
• Capstone Project: By the end of the course, you’ll integrate everything into a final project that showcases your skills.

Tips for Success:

Make sure to check out the course outline for due dates and details on what’s ahead. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions—I’m here to help!

Excited to work with you,
Professor Morgan

Example 3:

Dear Students,

Welcome to Health Informatics Systems! This course is designed to provide you with a flexible, self-paced structure while ensuring mastery of critical concepts in healthcare information systems.

The course includes modules with video lectures, readings, and practice quizzes to help you engage with the material. You’ll demonstrate your understanding through competency assessments, which allow you to progress at your own pace. In addition, optional discussion boards and group activities provide opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.

Tips for Success:
Success in this course starts with setting a regular schedule to engage with the material and staying consistent with your progress. Use the optional discussion boards to ask questions, clarify ideas, and share insights with your peers. Start assessments early to give yourself time to review and adjust as needed. Remember, I’m here to support you if you need help at any point—don’t hesitate to reach out!

Best regards,
Professor Kim

Feel free to customize these examples with specific course details and your personal teaching style.