Thank you for your interest in our program. As you know, we are collaborating in the development of web-based continuing education modules to be published to the Sinclair’s online CE website. Sinclair Community College provides funding support for this initiative, including the reimbursement of module authors for original writing and development work.

At the outset of the development process, it is important that all participating authors be fully aware of course-development requirements. This document provides specific information regarding manuscript/monograph content and the submission process for publication of an online CE module.

I: Introduction
Currently, the objective of the Sinclair Community College Online CE Program is to provide affordable and convenient high quality continuing education opportunities that enhance the knowledge and skills of radiologic technologists, nephrology practitioners and nurses. In the near future a project expansion is planned to include online CE modules for other allied health professionals.  New module topics are continuously added to our library of online CE offerings. 

A. Understanding Site Functionality
If you have not previously authored for us, to gain insight on site functionality and module organization you are invited (and encouraged) to complete an existing online CE module in advance of authoring your topic. In this regard, you must establish an online CE account at one of the following sites:

• http://hmi.sinclair.edu (radiology CE)
• http://nant.sinclair.edu (dialysis/nephrology practitioner CE)
• http://nursing.sinclair.edu (nursing CE)

Once at the appropriate site, you may wish to bookmark the page for quick future access.

It is important to review four web pages of information to fully understand how the site functions:

• Home page narrative
• Get Started tab contents at the top of the Home page
• FAQ tab contents at the top of the Home page
• CE Module tab at the top of the Home page.

Upon completion of your review of the site, please create an online CE account and determine which module you wish to complete. Contact me and I will register you for the module so you can experience it as a user prior to beginning to author the module. This will be a free CE experience for you, so be sure to complete all required data fields when you establish your online CE account.

You’ll note as you complete your sample CE experience that every module’s content is structured around a number of lessons, which contain graphics and may contain interactive elements, and that the module concludes with a self-assessment opportunity and a final assessment that assigns the learner’s score and CE credit. The following sections describe your role in our partnership for developing this content.

II: Author Support and Deliverables
As an author, you can expect to receive significant support from our team. We are available to help you think through module design, provide graphic development support and supply editorial assistance. Be sure to call me whenever you have needs so that I can properly help/direct you.

A. Module Contents and Approvals for Development
All modules/topic/content areas must be pre-approved by the program director (Denise Moore) in advance of development. The project coordinator will gladly assist prospective authors with preparation of relevant and timely manuscripts. We encourage anyone considering an editorial submission to telephone and discuss the proposed module. For example, we will critique an outline, a one-page concept paper, or an initial draft of a prospective manuscript.

Completion dates for module development are somewhat flexible; however, an anticipated module development and completion schedule is expected. Once deadline dates are agreed upon, timely delivery is most appreciated.

The guidelines below will help you understand the expectations and editorial review process in advance of submitting your module.

B. Manuscript Guidelines
1.Research Depth
Manuscript/monograph content may focus on the results of scientific study or may include substantive thoughts about a health care-related practice, concept, program, or opportunity.

2. Module Length
Depending on the complexity of the subject matter, content length (including text, charts, graphs, etc.) may vary. Effectiveness of the learning experience is influenced by learner “seat-time” and attention span. In this regard, most modules are developed in 1 CE unit increments requiring 50-60 minutes of learner time excluding time on the final assessment (final exam cannot be counted; however, the self assessment exam is allowed in calculating “learning time”). Longer modules are permissible; however, minimally, the session must be at least 50 minutes (60 for nursing) in length to receive professional credit approval. If appropriate, when courses need to be longer than 1 CE unit, it is preferred that the course content be presented in parts, i.e., part 1, part 2, etc., with each part representing a single module in a series.

3. Graphics
Graphics --tables, graphs, figures, pictures, and animations-- are good sources of information and are encouraged. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also help to reinforce important concepts. In addition, animated graphics help to set apart online from directed reading learning experiences. However, the technology capacity of the end-user must be taken into account: sophisticated graphic displays, such as video capture, may actually be counterproductive for the learner if his/her access to up-to-date computer technology is limited. Computer capacities, modem speeds, Internet provider services, and server capabilities are issues that need to be considered as graphics are selected/developed. We provide illustration support, in part or in totality depending on the needs of authors. Please contact the project coordinator for guidance.

C. Manuscript / Monograph Formatting
Manuscripts/monographs must be submitted in an electronic format, either by e-mail or on CD or zip disk. Submissions must be single-spaced, using 10 point Arial font, with left alignment for all text. Do not use indents to indicate new paragraphs; instead, use a hard return to separate paragraphs. Please number all pages. A hard copy printout must also be submitted. Files must be submitted in a PC/IBM-compatible format using MS Word version 6.0 or later. Receipt of all manuscripts is acknowledged; however, Sinclair is not responsible for monographs lost in the mail. Authors will be notified by the project coordinator with thanks, regardless of the acceptance status of the manuscript. No manuscripts will be returned to the author.

D. Editorial Review Process
Modules are subject to editorial review following a two-step review process. First, once the author has written, edited and submitted the module, a content editorial team will make a thorough evaluation of the work. Through this initial review, the editorial team typically suggests changes (for clarity and readability and/or content development) that are forwarded to the author for consideration. Following this revision phase (if necessary), a second review is completed by content editors. If approved, the monograph is forwarded to a technical writer for final edits. The module will then be uploaded to the web and the author will be required to verify its accuracy by performing a final read. Adjustments may be required after posting to the web and authors will be requested to sign off on the final version, prior to publication.

E. Manuscript Content
The following deliverables are expected from you as part of your authoring requirements:

1. Lesson Content
Lessons should follow the format described below and may contain the following additional deliverables:

a. Headings
Primary and secondary headings are required and should be used whenever appropriate to improve readability. Headings should be similar in grammatical structure and in tone. Use of text boxes in the module text file should be avoided.  

b. Graphics, Tables, and Charts
As stated above (see B: Manuscript Guidelines) graphic use is encouraged. Please contact me as soon as the need is identified. Do not wait until submission of the module. Our design team can create your figures/graphics while you are developing your module’s other content.

If you can provide graphics, either finished web-ready images or reference image file, they should be submitted in electronic format as separate image files: do not embed the images in a Word document or PowerPoint file. When submitting as separate files, a clearly understood, consistent naming convention should be used. For example, if a picture is to be inserted as “Figure 1”, the file should be named “fig01.jpg” with clear indication in the text of desired placement. Note that no spaces or dashes may be used in naming the file. JPEG file format is used for photographic images, while GIF will be preferred for any graphic images such as cartoons, pie charts, and line art. Please include all graphics when forwarding your module. Captions for graphics should also be included in the lesson text.

c. Scenarios
When appropriate, scenarios should be included in each one-hour course. The author should note the placement of the scenario within the manuscript.

d. Summary/Concluding Comments
A summary and/or concluding comments section should be included with each course curriculum submission. 

e. References/ Citations
When a writer submits work that includes the words, ideas or data of others, the source of that information must be acknowledged through complete, accurate and specific references. If verbatim phrases or statements are included, the writer must enclose the citation in quotation marks. The following are examples that should be acknowledged for indebtedness to others:

• Whenever one quotes another person's actual words.
• Whenever one uses another person's idea, opinion or theory, even if it is completely paraphrased in one's own words.
• Whenever one draws upon facts, statistics or other illustrative materials - unless the information is common knowledge.

What is common knowledge?
Common knowledge is what most or many people in a particular field know. For instance, most people in general, as well as people within the field of history, know that Columbus discovered the New World in 1492. Most can even name the three ships in his fleet. However, if one discusses the exact dimensions of the ships, that is NOT common knowledge - the source of that information should be cited. Also, if one quotes another, whether quoting areas of common knowledge or not, the writer must place quotation marks around the material cited.  

f. Originality of Work
Writers should develop a thesis and outline. Although writers are encouraged to use supporting references, the narrative of the work submitted should be chiefly in the writers' own words and reflect the writers' understanding and experience. The writer should avoid using a compilation of quotations as the basis of the narrative. By placing his/her name on work submitted, the writer certifies the originality of all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgements.  

e. Permissions
The author is responsible for obtaining and providing permission to use any copyrighted material that is not referenced as noted above. For help with this process, please contact any member of our team.

2. Assessment Question Guidelines
There are two stages of assessment in each module: Self-assessment and Final Assessment. Creating assessment questions is often the most difficult part of authoring a module; our team is glad to assist, as in any part of the module development process. The information below should serve as your guide in creating effective assessments items in the format required for our CE modules.

a. Self-Assessment
After completing the module, learners answer a series of self-assessment questions to test their competency of the material. These questions are to be written at the same level of difficulty as final exam questions and are designed to build learner confidence in preparing for the final exam. When incorrect answers are selected, learners are cued to review related module content. To facilitate an accurate link to the appropriate section of the module, authors must indicate the content section to be reviewed for each self-assessment question. The self-assessment section must include an appropriate number of multiple-choice style questions (see c. Questions Formatting Guidelines below) to cover all lessons of the module. When learners feel confident with the content, they advance to the final assessment section of the module. Because learners are provided links to enable review of applicable content when the incorrect answer choice is selected, time spent on the self assessment exam is considered a legitimate part of the learning experience; therefore, writers are encouraged to develop an appropriate number of self assessment items, no fewer than five for a one-credit module.

b. Final Assessment
This section contains no less than 20 multiple-choice style questions for a one-credit module, 25 items for a 1.5 credit module, and 30 items for a 2 credit module. Once in the final assessment section of the module, learners will not be given access back to the lesson content. The final assessment is scored automatically and results are indicated after all questions have been completed.

c. Question Formatting Guidelines
All assessment questions adhere to the traditional, 4-choice, multiple-choice format and may also be written in a combined-response format (see example to follow). Web-users will click radio buttons to select the correct response rather than select traditional choices of “A, B, C, D.” So avoid using references to answers using letter choices (see example below).

• Submit an appropriate number of multiple choice questions for the self-assessment section of the module. Answer choices must include and are limited to four choices for each question. All questions must include a citation to link the question to the appropriate text section (lesson) of the module. This provides a mechanism for the learner to review the content when incorrect answers are selected.
• At least 20 multiple-choice questions are required for modules approved up to one CE credit; 25 questions are required for approvals of 1.5 CE credits and 30 items are required for two credit modules.
• Keep the number of possible answers to a four-choice format.
• Make certain that one answer is clearly the only correct answer noted by asterisk*.
• Make the incorrect answers clearly incorrect, but in such a way that the answers cause the test-taker to think.
• Avoid drafting questions that, through the wording, give the answers to previous questions or questions later in the test.
• For the final assessment section, avoid sequencing questions as the answers appear in the module: mix them up.
• For all assessment questions, indicate the correct answer by placing an asterisk* next to correct item, e.g., if “a” is the correct item: *a. 

Example Self-assessment question: traditional 4-choice style

Hemoglobin is associated with which of the following blood cells?

• Erythrocytes*
• Lymphocytes
• Leukocytes
• Platelets
  Answer found in lesson 1

In the example above, our Web team will set Web links so that when the user selects the incorrect answer choice, a dialog box will cue them to review a specific lesson; in this example, Lesson 1 is where the related content is discussed.

Example Final Exam Item: traditional 4-choice style

Oxygen is transported in the body by which of the following cells?

• Platelets
• Lymphocytes
• Leukocytes
• Erythrocytes*
  Answer found in lesson 1

Below is sample of another acceptable style of question. If you choose to use the combined-response style question, please use the exact format as shown below:

Example of an acceptable combined-response style

HDR treatments:
1. can be used for irradiation of the whole breast by use of multiple catheters
2. can be used for partial breast irradiation
3. involve the use of many, small radioactive sources

• 1 & 2*
• 1 & 3
• 2 & 3
• 1, 2 & 3
  Answer found in lesson 4

As a final note regarding exam question format, please be aware that CE Approval Guidelines absolutely do not allow question styles to include “all of the above” or “none of the above” as answer choices. This style of question is not acceptable.

F. Sending the Manuscript
Once the module is complete and ready for initial editorial review, forward all MS Word Docs to me at celeste.sheets@sinclair.edu; if possible, I recommend “zipping” the files using WinZip to reduce the memory required. You may additionally send a hard copy, along with a floppy or Zip disc containing the same files. Do not use registered or certified mail. Sinclair Community College Online CE is not responsible for a manuscript lost in the mail. Submit manuscripts by regular mail to:

Celeste Sheets
Online CE Program
Sinclair Community College
444 West Third Street
Dayton, OH 45402

The following is a checklist for submitting the necessary module documents:

• Main text.doc: Includes learning objectives and all text for all lessons in the module.
• Abstract.doc: See description above
• Gloss.doc: If needed; see description above
• Bib.doc: List of all resources used in the text meeting AMA Style requirements.
• SAS.doc: Self assessment questions; see description above
• FAS.doc: Final assessment questions; see description above
• Figlist.doc: List of all figures in numerical order as they appear in text including captions; see description above
• Bio.doc: Author biographical sketch
• Author pic: As jpg file (list by yourname.jpg; e.g.: moore.jpg)
  

• a formally declared independent contractor with a Federal Identification Number (FIN), or,
• an individual contracted for author services through a formal Professional Services Contract or,    an existing employee officially hired in the Sinclair system.

Most authors will not meet independent contractor requirements as defined by federal guidelines; therefore, if not currently employed at SCC, you will need to complete a Professional Services Contract. I will send appropriate paperwork to you based your status as defined above. You need to let me know which status best applies to you.

Authors developing new modules will be paid a total of $500 per approved CE credit ($250 for development and $250 for research). Payment will be forwarded once the new module has been fully approved by the review team, assigned credit and published to the Web site. Should the manuscript need substantial editing, the payment may be adjusted accordingly. When possible, please submit courses in one-hour modules. Authors reviewing and significantly revising  existing modules for CE approval renewals will be paid $200 per approved CE credit ($100 for development and $100 for research). Payment will be forwarded once approval renewals are issued and published to the Web site.

A. Ownership
Once published, all online CE modules are the copyright property of Sinclair Community College. Authors submitting manuscripts/monographs for publication will be required to sign an ownership/copyright agreement that ascribes specifically agreed upon rights and responsibilities. To obtain a copy of the agreement, please contact the project coordinator (address above).

B. Designating a Contact Author
In the event that a module is developed through the collaborative efforts of more than one author, one contact author must be identified; however, each contributing author is required to sign a Professional Services Contract and submit an Author Biography. The editor and/or project coordinator will communicate primarily with the individual designated as the contact author.