1. New Teacher Orientation OnCourse Training
Using OnCourse to communicate with the school community

2. Benefits of OnCourse Web based tool allows for 24/7 access
Lesson Plans can be archived for 5 years/Keyword searches
Plans can be shared with colleagues ( ICS or team)
Template allows for easy submission from week to week
Homework in plans is automatically added to OnCourse website
Website is fully under teacher control for quick and easy updating 2

3. Using the OnCourse website for communication
Contact Information
Course themes and topics
Classroom current events - announcements
Homework or extension activities
Content based links
Handouts (Word files etc.)

4. Your website responsibilities
Update on a consistent basis
Require to students to access site to build familiarity
Consider aesthetics in design
Provide content appropriate for grade level

5. Traits of a good website
Timely
Original content
Easy to read
Well organized and accurate
Appropriate image use
Limit user scrolling

6. Extending your website
Calendar for class and school activities
Display student work (using photos)
24/7 access to information: handouts, reminders, agendas
Homework help – For students and parents
Links to appropriate websites
Distribution of assignments

7. Other OnCourse features
Lesson Planner
Lesson sharing: sharing key
Unit Planner
Plan searching
Linking standards

8. Building Familiarity Use during Back to School Night with parents
Reference in syllabus/agenda on the first day
Limit handouts by placing documents online
Add link to OnCourse in your Novell “signature”