How to Prepare for a Group Class

Gathering Resources for Course Preparation:

Gathering the right resources is a critical step in creating comprehensive and effective course content. Here’s a detailed guide:

 

1- Identify the Core Topics

Before gathering resources, define the scope of your course:

List the key topics and subtopics to cover.

Prioritise foundational materials that align with your learning objectives.

 

2- Sources for Information

a- Books and Academic Publications

b- Online Resources

Websites and Blogs: Look for reputable sources such as Islam Web, Sunnah, etc.

c- Videos and Podcasts

Gather video lectures or tutorials from YouTube channels or educational platforms.

 

3- Evaluate the Resources

Not all resources are suitable, use resources which cope with the Quran and Sunnah.

 

4- Supplement with Your Expertise

Add your knowledge and experience to enrich the gathered resources.

Use real-life examples of anecdotes to make the material relatable.

 

5- Adapt and Customize

Tailor the resources to your course’s unique needs:

Summarize and translate complex concepts into simple terms.

 

Preparing an Outline for a Course:

 

A well-structured course outline is essential for both instructors and learners. It provides a roadmap for the course, ensuring that all key topics are covered and that the learning objectives are met. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare an effective course outline:

 

1- Define Course Objectives

Start with the end in mind: What do you want your learners to achieve by the end of the course?

 

2- Determine Target Audience

Who are your ideal learners? What are their prior knowledge, skills, and interests?

Tailor your content to their needs and learning styles.

 

3- Structure the Course

Divide the course into sessions : Each session should focus on a specific topic or set of related topics.

Break down each session into smaller lessons or topics.

Create a logical flow: Ensure that the topics are presented in a clear and sequential order.

 

4- Plan Assessments

Align assessments with learning objectives: Ensure that assessments measure what students have learned.

Use a variety of assessment methods:

Quizzes and exams: Test knowledge and comprehension.

 

5- Schedule the Course

Create a realistic timeline: Consider the amount of time needed for each topic and activity.

Ensure the content is equally divided among all sessions.

 

6- Review and Revise

Review the outline many times.

Make sure your outline is accurate and free from errors.

Here is an example for an outline of a course:

Course: Tohfatul Atfaal
Duration of Course: 4 Sessions Duration of Session: 2 Hours	1st 30 Mins: Theoritical Explanation 10 Mins: Student Questions 10 Mins: Exercise  10 Mins: Break 2nd 30 Mins: Theoritical Explanation 10 Mins: Student Questions 20 Mins: Exercise
Content of 4 Sessions	Session 1: Introduction + Noon Saakin & Tanween Session 2: Meem Saakin + Lām al-Fi‘l & Lām al-Ism Session 3: Relationships Between Letters Session 4: Madd + Conclusion
Session 1	Introduction + Noon Saakin & Tanween
Topic 1.2 Duration: 30 Mins	Introduction ( About the Author)
Learning Objectives:	Learn about Tohfatul Atfaal, its importance, and Imam Al-Jamzuri.
Student Questions Duration: 10 Mins	They can read if there are no questions.
Exercise  Duration: 10 Mins	Quiz on the Introduction and Imam Al-Jamzuri Used Apps: Wordwall, Kahoot, Quizizz, Baamboozle, …
Break Duration: 10 Mins
Topic 1.2 Duration: 30 Mins	Noon Saakin & Tanween Rules
Learning Objectives:	Learn about Izhaar, Idghaam, Iqlaab and Ikhfaa.
Student Questions Duration: 10 Mins	They can read if there are no questions.
Exercise  Duration: 20 Mins	Quiz on Noon Saakin & Tanween Rules Used Apps: Wordwall, Kahoot, Quizizz, Baamboozle, …
Session 2, 3, 4	Maintain the same approach across all sessions.
Final Assessment	General quiz on the whole course in the 4th session.