This lesson provides information to consider to have a successful implementation with using Course Request options available in Illuminate.
Online Course Requests are a feature that must be enabled by your Illuminate implementation manager and requires student portal accounts.
All Course Request Options
Course Request options can be used in place of or in combination with other course request options.
All Course Requests can be added or edited manually. When a package of courses is created for online course requests, students will be able to request what is available to them. A common practice has been to use packages for mass assigning required or core classes in conjunction with using online packages for electives.
Parent involvement is key to student success.
Many schools opt to send home the paper course request form in advance so that students and parents can work together to make selections. This also allows districts to collect a parent signature and have a backup paper copy if needed.
Providing On-Site Support for Students, Parents, and Staff.
With any and all course request options, support is a key factor of success for all those affected. In Online Course Requests, once a student saves their online course request choices they will not be able to make any changes UNLESS their course request details are edited by a school staff member to allow a resubmission. Staff may need a contact when using this annual feature and refreshing their memory with manual course requests.
Consider your new or incoming students.
How will your incoming 9th, or 7th grade students be handled? Do these grade levels present different logistical challenges at your sites? Have a plan in place for these students.
Online Course Requests
While online course requests can be accessed from the portal at home, most schools still prefer to guide students through the process of selecting courses during school hours.
Even with the Student Portal being accessible at all hours, Course Requests can be assigned a window when open and available. Many sites opt to have students select courses in their homeroom or English class under the guidance of the counselor. This also helps to maximize portal support during school hours for students (and even parents) so that a school site user can assist easily.
Technology always has a different plan that what you planned for.
You never know what can go wrong with technology... always have backup forms on hand. Sure, it is an extra thing to think about and prepare. However, you will be better prepared and not miss a beat of collecting what you need to move forward. This is also helpful for unique practices for incoming students, pilot grades, and your staff will feel most supported.
Students using Student Portal.
Students can use their portal accounts to review and submit course requests. Make sure students are able to login to the portal prior to any massive online course request entry day. Have a plan in place for resetting portal passwords or a site contact.
Next Steps
Now that you have reviewed recommend implementation considerations, start to review Course Request Options available to you!