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Video: Types of Course Content

 


Access content in a course

At the top of the page, you can open frequently used tools. Select the icons to check the course calendar, drop in on class discussions, access your grades, and send a message. When you're finished, select the Content icon to return to all the content your instructor has made visible.

The Course Content page

If you can access content on a future date, your instructor can show the item in the content list with that date. You can't open it, but you're alerted so you know what work is ahead.

When someone contributes to a conversation or a discussion, an activity icon appears next to the item's title on the Course Content page.

Your instructor's name and picture appear. Select the Roster to view everyone enrolled in your course. If your instructor uses the attendance feature, you can access your records from the Details & Actions panel.

You can upload files to web apps that run in the "cloud" and aren't installed on your computer, such as Google Workspace and OneDrive®.

More on the roster

More on your attendance grade


Types of content

This table describes the types of content that your instructors can add to courses.

Description of content types
IconContent TypeDescription
AssignmentInstructors use assignments to assess your knowledge of course content and objectives. Your instructors often assign grades to assignments. Instructors can also create assignments for groups of students.
TestInstructors use tests to assess your knowledge. Instructors can also create tests for groups of students.
Link to discussionsInstructors can provide a link to a discussion near related content. For example, you might be asked to read a file and then respond in discussions.
JournalInstructors can use journals to communicate privately with you and can grade your contributions.
DocumentInstructors can create a page or "handout" and add text, audio, video, files, and images. Based on the settings or what the browser allows, audio, video, and image files can appear inline.
FileSelect a file title to download it.
SCORMInstructors can add web-based content packages from academic publishers or instructional designers. SCORM packages open in a new window and may count for a grade.
AudioAudio files appear inline or open in new windows or tabs. You have controls to pause, play, and adjust the volume.
Image of the icon for Microsoft Documents
Embedded Cloud DocumentIf your institution uses this feature, instructors can link a read-only Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file to your course. The content also appears in your course outline.
Icon for a Google Document
Google DocumentIf your institution uses this feature, instructors can link read-only Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides to your course. The content also appears in your course outline.
Icon for Google Collaborative Document
Google Collaborative DocumentIf your institution uses this feature, instructors can share Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides with you and your classmates to edit in your course. The content also appears in your course outline.
ImageImages appear inline or open in new windows or tabs.
Icon for AI Conversation
AI ConversationInstructors can create a conversation with an AI persona to encourage critical thinking about a topic.
VideoVideo files appear in inline or open in new windows or tabs. You have controls to pause, play, and adjust the volume.
LinkSelect the link to go to a website or resource.
FolderA folder is a content container. Instructors can use folders and sub-folders to group related material, such as a "Week 1 Case Studies" folder inside the "Week 1 Assignments" folder. Folders make materials easier to find and reduces scrolling.
Icon for Learning Module in Ultra
Learning moduleModules let you navigate from one content item to the next without distractions or extra clicks. A learning module keeps you focused on the lesson or concept.