5.2 Course Design

5.2.1 module

Every course, regardless of the number of hours, is to be designed with specific topics of learning broken down into logical content modules. For example, an 8-hour self-paced course is required to be broken down into the following modules ^¹

Module 1: Updated Federal Lending Laws
Module 2: Contemplated Changes to the GFE
Module 3: FHA Update
Module 4: Trends in Mortgage Fraud
etc.

Note: Even a 1-hour course is to be broken down into logical units of instruction. No single module courses will be approved.

5.2.2 unit of instruction

Modules are then broken down into specific units of instruction. Units of instruction are specific lessons or chunks of content that contribute to a greater understanding of the module. For example: ^¹

Module 1: Update to Federal Lending Laws
Units of Instruction:
Loan Officer Compensation
Understanding YSP
Key Reminders Concerning RESPA

5.2.3 “Chunk” Information:

Pages that are text heavy and require excessive scrolling are extremely difficult to read and can overwhelm a student. Instead of presenting text-heavy pages, content needs to be segmented into “chunks” of information that are easier to read and contribute to greater learning (Clark & Mayer, 2008). Content needs be presented in chunks that are linked together either through a navigation paradigm similar to a content outline whereby each segment of information is accessed by clicking on a topic link or through a continue button found at the end of the segment. Chunking also applies to audio-video presentations. For example, an audio-video presentation discussing RESPA should be streamed for 5 minutes and then stopped. The 5-minute audio-video segment should then be followed by an activity; for example, a poll, quiz or survey that the student is required to take before advancing to the next segment of the presentation.

5.2.4 Text

Text information contained within a module needs to be broken down or “chunked” to avoid presenting such a large amount of material that it is difficult to read or comprehend. Information pertaining to laws should be summarized with key points presented in bullet format or as distinct points with references made to the specific law or regulation. All references must be cited.

5.2.5 Video

Video used in a module must also be “chunked.” Individual video segments are not to be more than 5 minutes in length (multiple videos may be used in a course, however, to work with the time-out requirements, no video segment may be longer than five minutes). Video should be supported by text calls-out or reinforce important points. All references are to be cited.

5.2.6 Audio

Audio files may also be employed in modules. Just like video, audio files are not to be more than 5 minutes in length. Where appropriate, audio files are to synch with any graphical (PowerPoint) presentation; care is to be taken to ensure that if the student replays the audio file that it remains synched with the presentation. Audio must be supported by the display of text to ensure the student is made aware of key points. References must be cited with the text.

5.2.7 Approved Untimed Activities

Certain untimed activities may be utilized in modules. A maximum of two untimed activities may be included for each hour of approved credit, with a maximum of five minutes per activity counting towards the amount of credit granted. Examples include but are not limited to on-line field trips, case studies, and learning games. Providers must include methods to ensure the rigor of the activity and student comprehension through quizzes or other appropriate methods of assessing understanding.

5.2.8 Requirement for Quizzes

Each module must include a quiz specific to the stated learning objectives. The quizzes are to be of sufficient rigor to ensure that the student has achieved a minimum level of proficiency. Also, see 1.10.3 Quizzes and Exams in the General Requirements section.

5.2.8.1: Quizzes are to be no less than three (3) questions for a module that is 10 or fewer minutes in length, and between five (5) and ten (10) question for a module that is greater than 10 minutes. Questions are not to contain True/False questions.
5.2.8.2: Quiz question bank must contain a 2:1 ratio of questions.
5.2.8.3: Students are required to pass the quiz before being allowed to advance to the next module. Course providers are to determine a reasonable passing score based on the number of questions in the quiz. Students who are required to retake the quiz are to be presented with a high percentage of different questions in a randomized order.
5.2.8.4: Students are to be informed if they select a wrong answer. Quizzes are to be constructed such that the student cannot blow through the quiz only to retrieve the correct answers so that they can quickly pass it again on a subsequent attempt.

5.2.9 Requirement for End-of-Course Exam:

This course format requires an end-of-course exam in accordance with 1.13 Requirement for End-of-Course Assessment in the General Requirements section.

Note: The final exam for PE state specific courses ten (10) hours or less require a higher number of questions.

¹ Topics are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply any sense of time.