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Roll Tide Research

This guide introduces faculty to the Roll Tide Research (RTR) asynchronous learning modules, a set of flexible, accessible tutorials designed to help students strengthen their research skills.

Welcome to the Roll Tide Research Faculty Information Guide

Roll Tide Research (RTR) is a flexible, self-paced series of interactive modules designed to help students develop essential academic research skills. Developed by The University of Alabama Libraries, RTR is grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Universal Design for Instruction (UDI), frameworks that ensure accessibility, equity, and learner choice for every student.

The redesigned RTR modules can be completed in any order and are intended to support multiple instructional contexts, including stand-alone learning, flipped classroom models, or as supplements to in-person library instruction. Whether students need to build skills from the ground up or review a specific concept, RTR offers them the tools to succeed.

Why Roll Tide Research was Redesigned

1. Modernization and Technology Updates

  • The original RTR was created over a decade ago and built on older platforms that were increasingly difficult to support.

  • The redesign ensures compatibility with current learning technologies and Blackboard Ultra, making it easier for faculty and students to access.

2. Flexibility and Student Choice

  • The new modules give students multiple learning pathways (interactive module, video series, guided practice document), unlike the old version which had only one format.

  • Students can jump to specific lessons or explore the full module, depending on their needs.

3. Accessibility and Equity

  • Apply evidence-based learning frameworks: Built on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Universal Design for Instruction (UDI), the modules ensure that students have equitable access and multiple ways to engage with content.

  • Beyond UDL/UDI, the modules were rebuilt with WCAG accessibility standards in mind. This ensures that students using screen readers, mobile devices, or assistive technologies have full access.

4. Improved Engagement

  • The old modules were more text-heavy and linear. The new version integrates interactive activities, immediate feedback, and multimedia content to keep students engaged.

5. Better Alignment with Faculty Needs

  • Faculty now have clear assessment options (graded quizzes or guided practice documents) that can be integrated into coursework.

  • The modular design makes it easier to assign just the sections that align with specific assignments or course goals.

6. Sustainability

  • The redesign makes it easier for the UA Libraries to update and expand content regularly, keeping examples and activities relevant.

In This Guide

This guide provides faculty with:

  • An overview of current and upcoming modules and their lessons.

  • A description of how the modules work and the learner pathways available to students.

  • Assessment options for verifying student completion or assigning graded work.

  • Instructions for accessing and linking modules in Blackboard or other learning platforms.

  • Ideas for integrating RTR into your teaching.

  • Information on providing feedback and understanding the Creative Commons license.