Embedded Files
These instructions will walk you through a step by step process to set up your own Google Site as a class web site or syllabus for a BOLLI class. A class web site can be very helpful; you can put your Zoom link right on the home page and have assigned readings and study questions for each class in one place. No more sending out email blasts to class members that quickly get buried in their in-boxes. Your site can be simple and utilitarian, or you can embellish it with photographs, colored backgrounds, and lots of supplementary links to other web sites, articles and pdfs; it's up to you.
What are we doing? Putting this process in context
What are we doing? Putting this process in context
Before we jump into making your course website, review the steps below. We are going to be focusing on Step 7.
1. Design your course. Identify the text and/or readings and any other supplemental material. Finalize a course structure. You probably completed this step when you prepared your proposal.
2. Create a course syllabus.
3. Would a class website add value to your study group? Not every course needs one.
4. New Google Sites is the website creation tool used by many BOLLI study group leaders. (Some SGLs have used other platforms.) In order to create a Google Site, you must have a Google account. (Note that class members need not have an account in order to view the site.)
5. Select a framework for your site. Many SGLs utilize a Home page, followed by individual pages for each class session (5 or 10), and a Bibliography or Resources page. This is just one option. Your site should be set up to support your own course objectives.
6. Construct the site framework. (An initial skeleton will be constructed for you should you decide to use a template.)
7. Add content and any design elements selected to enhance the site's overall appearance.
8. Once you have reviewed, proofread, and are feeling comfortable with the site you have created, you may want to publish and share it with someone (your SGSC liaison, perhaps) and ask him/her to open each document, test the links, and take a good look. This objective once-over can identify any last-minute fixes before sharing with your class.
9. Adjust as needed and then re-publish, if necessary, and share the site. The Welcome Letter is a good place to share your site's URL.
10. Because the Google Site is now an essential component of your overall course delivery, a few minutes of the first session should be devoted to a walkthrough with the class. Make sure they are aware of what's on the site and how to use it.
11. Keep in mind that a Google Site is always a work in progress. Supplemental material may be added at any time. Just remember to re-publish after making a change.
12 Steps to a Course Web Site
12 Steps to a Course Web Site
This site is a Google Site with 12 pages: a Home Page (this one) and one page for each of the 11 steps in the process. You can click on the links below to go to each of the 11 steps, or click the shortcut links in the Menu Bar at the top of this page. The 11 steps are as follows:
There are lots of tutorials on Google Sites on the web. If you get stuck, you can just google your query, e.g. How can I link to pages in New Google Sites?
Below is a recent tutorial that provides a good overview for a beginner or a refresher for those who have already created a site.
Google Sites
Report abuse