Primer for Teaching Online
4. “Chunk” Your Content
Placing content onto a web page requires more thought than a simple cut and paste from a word processor. Effective use of webpage space requires that you divide your content into logical units, or chunks, based on your established course goals. You may want to break down your content into weekly , chapter , or unit chunks. It may assist you by thinking of how a textbook is divided into chapters, with summary activities and review questions at the end of each chapter.
Design Content for Clarity and Engagement
Developing content for online delivery requires more than transferring material from a document into a web page. Effective course design involves organizing content into clear, logical segments commonly referred to as “chunking.”
Chunking lets you break complex information into manageable units aligned with your course goals. These units can be structured by week, module, or topic, like how a textbook is organized into chapters with supporting activities and assessments.
Additional Resources: Chunking
- 10 Tips on Writing for the Living Web
- Chunking Information
- How Much Content: Are We Asking the Wrong Question?
How Much is Too Much?
There is no fixed rule, but a practical guideline is to limit each content page to one key concept or learning point, supported by concise explanations and relevant examples.
As a general benchmark:
- Prioritize clarity over volume.
- Aim for short, focused sections rather than dense blocks of text.
- Use headings, bullet points, and spacing to improve scanability.
Make Content Interactive and Dynamic
Online environments offer opportunities to move beyond static content. Strategic use of interactive elements can significantly enhance engagement and learning.
Consider incorporating the following:
- Links to scholarly articles, current news, or discipline-specific resources
- Embedded videos, simulations, or interactive tools
- Opportunities for reflection or self-check activities within the content
These elements help keep content current, relevant, and connected to real-world applications.
