How to Create a Free Course Outline Template?

Creating a course outline is one of the first steps when building an online course. It helps you organize your thoughts and structure the lessons perfectly.

What Is a Course Outline?

A course outline is a plan that shows the structure of a course. It helps organize the content, lessons, and activities into a clear order.

Main Parts of a Course Outline:
  1. Course Goal
    This is the main point of the course, what students will learn or achieve by the end. It helps set the direction for the entire outline.
  2. Sections or Modules
    The outline is divided into sections. Each section covers one major part of the course topic and follows a step-by-step order to make learning easier.
  3. Subtopics or Lessons
    Inside each section, there are smaller lessons. These lessons focus on specific ideas or skills that build toward the course goal.
  4. Learning Objectives
    For each lesson, the outline may list what students should be able to do after finishing it. This keeps the lessons focused and clear.
  5. Activities
    The outline can also show activities that help students learn, like watching videos, reading materials, taking quizzes, or doing assignments.
  6. Materials
    Any resources needed for the course, such as worksheets, guides, or video links, can be listed in the outline to stay organized.

Purpose of a Course Outline

The course outline makes sure the course is well-organized. It helps the instructor plan each part in detail and gives students a clear guide to follow.

By showing the lessons in order, it helps learners see what they will be doing and how they will reach the course goal.

  • Organizes content clearly
  • Helps track progress
  • Defines course goals
  • Provides structure
  • Saves time in planning
  • Improves learning experience

1. Start with the Course Goal

Course Goal = What student will achieve by the end of the course

The course goal is the first part of your outline. This should be a clear statement of what students will learn or be able to do after completing the course. Write this at the top of your template to keep it in focus.

For Example: Mention like, “By the end of this course, students will be able to take professional photos using manual camera settings.”

2. Break Down the Course into Sections

Course Sections = Main topics of the course

Next, break your course into sections. Each section will cover a major part of the course. Think of these as the building blocks that lead toward the main goal. Each section should focus on one big idea or topic.

Example: For a course based on Photography

  • Section 1: Camera Settings
  • Section 2: Lighting Techniques
  • Section 3: Editing Photos

3. List Subtopics for Each Section

Subtopics = Lessons within each section

Under each section, add specific lessons or subtopics. These are the smaller pieces of information that help explain the main topic of the section. For each section, list the lessons in the order they should be taught.

For Example: If Section 1: Camera Settings

Lesson 1.1: Shutter Speed

Lesson 1.2: Aperture

Lesson 1.3: ISO Settings

4. Add Learning Objectives for Each Lesson

Learning Objective = What students will be able to do after the lesson

Each lesson should have a clear goal. Write down what students will achieve by the end of each lesson. This helps keep the lesson focused and ensures that students know what they are expected to learn.

Example: In Lesson 1.1: Shutter Speed, Students will be able to adjust shutter speed to capture different types of motion.

5. Plan Activities for Each Lesson

Activities = Exercises, quizzes, or tasks to help students learn

For each lesson, think about what activities or tasks will help students better understand the topic. This could be a quiz, an assignment, or a hands-on practice exercise. These activities keep students engaged and allow them to apply what they learn.

Example: For Lesson 1.1: Shutter Speed, add activities like students should take photos with different shutter speeds to see how motion is captured.

6. Organize Materials for Each Lesson

Materials = Videos, worksheets, or reading materials

List all the materials needed for each lesson. These could include videos, articles, worksheets, or guides that students will use.

Example: For Lesson 1.1: Shutter Speed, provide materials such as PDF guide on camera settings, video tutorial on using shutter speed.

7. Estimate Time for Each Lesson

Lesson Time = Estimated time needed for each lesson

Add an estimate of how long each lesson will take. This helps students know how much time they should set aside for each part of the course. The time estimate can include watching videos, completing activities, and reviewing materials.

Example: Estimated Time: 30 minutes (15 minutes for video, 15 minutes for practice exercise).

8. Organize the Template Layout

Template Layout = Sections + Subtopics + Objectives + Activities + Materials + Time

Now, put everything together in a clear and simple layout. Example of a Basic Template Layout:

Section 1: (Main Topic)

Lesson 1.1: (Subtopic)

  • Learning Objective:
    (State what learners should achieve by the end of this lesson)
  • Activity:
    (Describe the activity or exercise for this lesson)
  • Materials:
    (List all materials needed for this lesson)
  • Estimated Time:
    (Provide the estimated time required to complete this lesson)

Lesson 1.2: (Subtopic)

  • Learning Objective:
    (State what learners should achieve by the end of this lesson)
  • Activity:
    (Describe the activity or exercise for this lesson)
  • Materials:
    (List all materials needed for this lesson)
  • Estimated Time:
    (Provide the estimated time required to complete this lesson)

Section 2: (Main Topic)

Lesson 2.1: (Subtopic)

  • Learning Objective:
    (State what learners should achieve by the end of this lesson)
  • Activity:
    (Describe the activity or exercise for this lesson)
  • Materials:
    (List all materials needed for this lesson)
  • Estimated Time:
    (Provide the estimated time required to complete this lesson)

FAQ

What should be included in a course outline template?
A course outline template typically includes the course goal, main sections, individual lessons, learning objectives, activities, materials needed, and estimated time for each lesson. Adding these components helps structure your course for clear, effective learning.

How can I create a course outline template for free?
You can use free tools like Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or Notion to create a course outline template. Start by setting up the sections and lessons, then fill in objectives, activities, and materials as placeholders for customization.

What is the main benefit of using a course outline template?
Using a course outline template helps organize course content efficiently. It allows for a structured flow of topics, ensuring learners have a clear path through each lesson and activity. It also makes updating and adjusting content much easier.

Can I customize a free course outline template to fit my course needs?
Yes, free templates are easily customizable. You can adjust each section to match your course’s objectives, add specific lesson titles, and tailor activities and materials based on the skills or knowledge you aim to deliver.

Where can I find free course outline templates online?
You can find free course outline templates on websites like Canva, Google Docs Templates, or Microsoft Office Templates. Many educational websites also offer downloadable outline templates specifically designed for course creation.