Best Practices for Remote Teaching by Curriculum Developers

As education increasingly embraces digital platforms, Curriculum Developers play a vital role in ensuring remote teaching is effective, inclusive, and engaging. Although they may not be teaching directly, Curriculum Developers shape the digital learning experience by designing remote-friendly materials, supporting educators, and aligning content with virtual delivery methods. By integrating thoughtful strategies and leveraging technology, Curriculum Developers can help educators create impactful online learning environments. Here are best practices to follow when developing curriculum for remote instruction.

1. Design with Digital Delivery in Mind

Remote learning requires intentional structure and pacing that respects student autonomy and varying access to technology.

• Break lessons into short, digestible modules to reduce cognitive overload and increase flexibility.
• Ensure each lesson includes a clear objective, guided practice, and an opportunity for self-paced learning.
• Design for asynchronous delivery when possible to accommodate different home environments and schedules.

2. Prioritize Accessibility and Inclusivity

Curriculum must be usable by all learners, including those with disabilities or limited digital access.

• Adhere to WCAG accessibility standards—use alt text, proper heading structure, and closed captions.
• Include options for offline learning, such as downloadable PDFs or printable handouts.
• Incorporate diverse voices, languages, and cultural perspectives into learning materials.

3. Leverage Digital Tools Strategically

Using the right tools can enhance engagement without overwhelming teachers or students.

• Design interactive activities using platforms like Nearpod, Jamboard, or Padlet.
• Create assessments with Google Forms, Edulastic, or LMS-integrated quiz features.
• Curate reliable open educational resources (OER) that enrich instruction without increasing cost or complexity.

4. Provide Clear Implementation Guidance for Educators

Teachers need support in translating curriculum into meaningful virtual instruction.

• Include step-by-step teaching notes tailored to remote settings, such as suggestions for live or asynchronous delivery.
• Offer pacing guides and sample schedules that reflect digital learning timeframes.
• Create screencasts or instructional videos to demonstrate how to use curriculum components.

5. Foster Student Engagement and Interaction

Online learning environments thrive when students feel connected to content and community.

• Incorporate discussion prompts, group projects, or peer review activities to promote interaction.
• Design lessons with real-world relevance and opportunities for personal reflection or expression.
• Provide multiple options for students to show their understanding (e.g., video, written response, audio recording).

6. Embed Formative Assessment and Feedback Loops

Frequent, low-stakes assessments help monitor progress and keep students motivated.

• Include quick check-ins, exit tickets, or journal prompts to gauge comprehension.
• Design auto-graded quizzes or peer assessment opportunities to reduce grading load.
• Encourage reflective self-assessment to support metacognition and independence.

7. Support Continuous Improvement Through Feedback

Remote teaching is constantly evolving—curriculum should be, too.

• Solicit teacher feedback on clarity, usability, and engagement levels of remote materials.
• Use learner data and platform analytics to identify areas for content refinement.
• Create iterative development cycles to ensure curriculum stays current and responsive.

8. Promote Collaboration Among Educators

Remote settings can isolate teachers—curriculum should encourage shared planning and learning.

• Design collaborative lesson planning templates or unit study guides.
• Facilitate virtual PLCs (Professional Learning Communities) to exchange best practices.
• Build curriculum hubs with shared resources and educator commentary spaces.

Conclusion

Curriculum Developers are essential partners in the success of remote teaching. By designing accessible, flexible, and engaging content—and by supporting educators with clear guidance and resources—they ensure students continue to learn and grow no matter the setting. With thoughtful planning and a commitment to continuous improvement, remote learning can become an opportunity to innovate, personalize, and expand what education can be.