This is a short (and somewhat embarrassing, but instructively useful) post that reflects on a recent development in my work designing online courses... and shows how easy it is to assume that something is "obvious" (when it's not).
To get the best results and not make your department go bankrupt in the process, separate course-content videos from occasional videos. This useful distinction deserves to get much more attention...
Create a calendar with a focus on rhythm for most of the course. Setting the rhythm is one of the most important factors - people are creatures of habit a repeating pattern will help students plan better, and - consequently - be successful.
MusingsOnTandL.com 