LSU Online Faculty Quick Start Guide

Once you’ve been assigned to teach a course for an LSU Online program, contact your program director/department chair and ask to be enrolled in the corresponding Blueprint (Master) Course in the Learning Management System (LMS) as soon as possible.

Review the Blueprint (Master) Course to familiarize yourself with course materials/textbooks, resources, activities, assessments, etc.

Acquire access to materials as needed (e.g., e-books, third-party platforms).

Read the Expectations for LSU Online Courses document (opens in new tab)  , which highlights practices to follow, including setting up the course in advance, maintaining regular communication and presence, providing timely feedback, and ensuring the course meets institutional and federal requirements for online instruction.

Meet with the program director or assigned faculty lead to discuss the program, course, and any specific teaching considerations (e.g., understanding the student population/background, aspects of the course students typically find challenging, grading guidelines).

In preparation for the upcoming term, register for and attend the Teaching an LSU Online Course: Strategies for Starting a Successful Term webinar.

Date: 09/28/2026
Time: 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. (Central)
Registration link (opens in new tab)  

This webinar provides faculty teaching an LSU Online course for the first time with essential information to prepare for the term. Participants will have opportunities to engage in discussion on online teaching practices, explore LSU Online guidelines, and learn about the resources and support available throughout the term.

Note: The recording will be shared with all registrants.

Import content from the Blueprint Course into your Teaching course for the term.

For assistance, contact your campus’ IT support office (see below for contact information).

Review the Blueprint Guidelines document (opens in new tab)   for clarification on which aspects of the course should be customized in your Teaching Course and aspects that should remain unchanged to ensure alignment with course outcomes and institutional standards.

Review all content and update relevant sections and settings as needed (e.g., check links and resources for currency and relevance, add your bio and contact information, update assignment settings and due dates).

Make your course(s) available one week prior to the first day of the term. Providing early access is especially important in accelerated terms, as it gives students critical time to review expectations, acquire course materials, and plan their schedules before the fast-paced coursework begins. If you are still working on finalizing your course(s), consider making the introductory modules (e.g., Welcome, Getting Started) visible to students ahead of term start.

Attend the LSU Online Faculty Check-in & Chat session to ask questions, discuss challenges, and share experiences with peers.

Date: 11/18/2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Central)
Registration link

This informal session offers new LSU Online faculty an opportunity to connect with peers as they teach their first online course. Participants can share experiences, ask questions, and exchange practical ideas and strategies for navigating the term. Join us for conversation, community, and support as you continue your online teaching journey.

Note: This session will not be recorded.

Alternatively, reach out to your Designer-in-Residence (opens in new tab)   for course design support or guidance on effective online teaching practices and student engagement.