End with a Bang!
As instructional designers and instructors, we put a lot of thought into the content of our courses. We think about the best format for the content, how to assess it, and how to make it engaging. But after learners have gone through all of our carefully crafted content, what do they do next?
Often, we prioritize the content itself, and once the content is developed we breathe a big sigh of relief and pat ourselves on the back for a job well done. But the course isn’t done yet! We need to make sure we also give some thought as to how we are going to end our courses.
Conclusion Module
A best practice that we always recommend is bookending your course with a clear Introduction module and Conclusion module, as it sets up a clear structure for learners. The Introduction module (or a Getting Started, Start Here, or Welcome module) sets out the expectations and outlines what is ahead. Equally important is the Conclusion module, which signifies the end of the course. Otherwise, your students might reach the end of the content and then wonder if they have actually completed the course, or if they are missing something. So in this final celebration, what should you include?
- Summarize the key learning points and takeaways, emphasizing the importance of the course and the knowledge they have gained from it.
- Next Steps, including additional resources they might find interesting, real-life applications for the content covered, or even other courses that might be relevant to them after taking this one.
- A final summative assessment – whether that is a final exam, a reflective activity, or some other culminating assignment.
- A Course Survey, where you can gather feedback from your learners about the course content or about the learning experience itself – what did they like about the format? What would they like to see in a course next time? Are they likely to take another course? You can then use this feedback to keep growing and improving your courses.
Summary Pages
Summaries aren't just for the end of the course! Even within a content module, it is important to include a conclusion page. You can include a quick summary of the learning, outline any next steps (like assessments or readings ahead of the next module), and, maybe most importantly, start making connections with the next module. We have all taken courses that feel disjointed – here is an opportunity to show the logical flow throughout your course and bring all the pieces of the puzzle together. Explain why this module is important, and motivate them to the next module and the fascinating information they will find there!
Certificate or AwardWho doesn’t love being recognized for their work? Whether it’s receiving a shiny gold star sticker on an assignment or getting a certificate that you can proudly display on LinkedIn, having an award at the end of the course can motivate learners to work through the content, make their learning meaningful, and provide them with a tangible piece of evidence of their learning.
In Brightspace, you can issue badges throughout the course to motivate learners through the content, and a certificate at the end to reward them for their hard work throughout the course. You can even use release conditions to ensure that these are automatically awarded, and reduce some of your admin work.
Don’t underestimate the importance of a conclusion to creating a well-rounded and complete learning experience. End your course memorably, and then give yourself a gold star for a job well done!