HuskyCT/Blackboard

Self-Guided Course Design and Development

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May 26, 2026

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

This post guides UConn faculty in designing, building, and teaching online and hybrid courses. Please see UConn Registrar’s Course Modalities for a complete explanation of each instructional approach.

The phases outlined are intended for faculty with a strong background in teaching and pedagogy who are already comfortable using HuskyCT.  To learn more about the skills and knowledge needed, see UConn Competencies for Online and Hybrid Instruction.

We encourage faculty who prefer a more guided support model to review the phases outlined in this site and then contact eCampus to work with one of our staff members.

Human symbol with arms extended to indicate universal design of learningThis icon indicates information related to accessibility and universal design of learning.

Symbol of half human brain and half electronic wire branches with letters AI indicating an Artificial Intelligence tip.This icon indicates information related to Artificial Intelligence use in course design.

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Using the eCampus HuskyCT Template

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March 25, 2025

 by 

Catherine Healy

Overview

The eCampus HuskyCT template is an organized and student-friendly structure which can be copied into another HuskyCT site. The template requires editing and basic building skills in HuskyCT (Ultra Course View). Refer to the resources listed within this article for assistance with various aspects of HuskyCT.

Before building a course in HuskyCT, complete a Course Design Plan to map out the alignment of course components and ensure a structured framework. Once the Course Design Plan is complete, follow the steps to build the course in HuskyCT.

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Finding and Using Free Images

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February 3, 2025

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

Without licensing (i.e., permission from the copyright holder), uploading copyrighted material to HuskyCT (Blackboard) violates copyright law. Copyright issues often arise when it comes to using images in courses, as placing copyrighted images in documents and HuskyCT is considered unauthorized copying and distribution. Any images used in online courses must be licensed for this purpose. This post shows how to find, use, and cite free images that support learning in online courses legally.

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Using a Token Economy to Promote Equity & Learning

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October 22, 2025

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

A token economy or late bank system allows instructors to provide deadline flexibility to students, eliminating the need for instructors to adjudicate excuses. This type of structure flexibility enhances student learning, reduces stress, and promotes equity.

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Collaborative (Group) Learning Online

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May 22, 2026

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

Collaborative learning, also known as group learning, is an opportunity for students to develop higher-order cognitive skills, promote connections and community, and engage with different perspectives. To facilitate student collaboration online, it requires designing the activity as well as selecting the best technology to connect students.

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eCampus Accessibility Checklist and Guide

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May 22, 2026

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

This post provides a guide to implementing the eCampus Accessibility Checklist, including disabilities and common barriers, accessibility frameworks, rationale for accessibility standards, and resources for implementation.

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Promoting Student Engagement in Your Online Course

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May 26, 2026

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

Student engagement is essential to effective teaching, but it can feel more elusive in online environments. Instructors often wonder how to foster interaction, ensure students engage with course materials and build a vibrant learning community. This article provides practical, actionable strategies for increasing student engagement in online course modalities.

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Faculty Resources for Teaching Online at UConn

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July 18, 2025

 by 

Kelsey Keefe

Overview

This post is a resource for faculty teaching online graduate and certificate programs as well as the various staff and administrators who support these programs. It is intended to provide information and guidance around roles and procedures that will help faculty be most effective in preparing to design, develop, and teach online.

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