Access the Tool
Access the BSU Instructional Design Tool here:
https://bsu-instructional-designer.replit.app
No installation is required. The tool runs in your web browser.
Overview
The BSU Instructional Design Tool is a browser-based AI-assisted resource that helps faculty review and refine course materials related to accessibility, course organization, and instructional workflows.
The tool provides suggestions, draft language, accessibility recommendations, and example structures that faculty can revise and adapt for their own courses.
Important: The tool does not replace instructor expertise or independently develop course content. Faculty remain responsible for reviewing, revising, approving, and maintaining all course materials.
The tool is best used as a starting point for reviewing and improving existing course materials rather than replacing faculty-created content.
Sign In and Save Work
You may use the tool without signing in. However, signing in with your BSU Google account allows you to save your work and return to it later.
If you do not sign in, be sure to copy, download, or save your suggested revisions before leaving the tool.
What the Tool Can Help With
The tool includes features that support course preparation and document accessibility workflows, including:
- Document accessibility review and suggested improvements
- Syllabus review and suggested revisions
- Learning module organization suggestions
- Assignment prompt review and refinement
- Rubric review and suggested structure
- Learning outcome review and revision suggestions
- AI course policy language suggestions
- Course organization support
You do not need to use every feature at once. Many faculty begin by reviewing a syllabus, assignment, or existing course document.
Recommended Workflow
- Enter your course information.
- Paste existing syllabus or course materials when available.
- Select one tool or feature at a time.
- Review the suggested output carefully.
- Edit and adapt the content before use.
- Save or copy your work before leaving the browser.
Review Accessibility Improvements
The document accessibility feature allows users to upload supported files and receive suggested accessibility improvements aligned with WCAG 2.1 AA guidance.
Supported file types may include:
- PDF files
- Microsoft Word documents
- Google Docs exports
Accessibility-enhanced files and recommendations should still be reviewed before being shared with students. Automated tools can help identify and address many accessibility issues, but they may not catch everything.
Review Course Material Suggestions
The tool can suggest editable draft language, revisions, and organizational structures based on information provided by the user. Some features reference evidence-based frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), and cultural relevance and inclusivity.
Examples of materials the tool can help review or suggest improvements for include:
- Course descriptions
- Learning outcomes
- Weekly learning modules
- Assignments and activities
- Rubrics
- Syllabus language
- AI course policies using BSU’s four-level framework
Tips for Best Results
- Provide specific course information whenever possible.
- Paste existing syllabus or assignment language to help the tool provide more relevant suggestions.
- Review smaller sections rather than trying to revise an entire course at once.
- Check all links, policies, dates, citations, and institutional language for accuracy.
- Use suggested content as a draft or recommendation, not as final course material.
Built-In Tutorial
The BSU Instructional Design Tool includes a built-in tutorial and guidance within the tool itself. We recommend using the tutorial when exploring a feature for the first time.
Get Help
Technical Support
For technical questions or issues with the tool, contact IT Support:
itsupport@bridgew.edu
Course Design and Pedagogical Support
For assistance with instructional design, online teaching strategies, accessibility practices, or course development, contact the Office of Teaching & Learning:
otl@bridgew.edu
Related Resources