Producing e-learning materials, a non-specialized model

As institutions move rapidly into the online format, it is increasingly the case that professors have to transition into the eLearning territory without the support of a specialized team of designers. This article gives some basic guidelines for professors as they design their course.

Understand the asynchronous model: As much as possible, avoid instructions or demands that begin to approximate the traditional classroom. Students go online with their courses because of hectic schedules. Requiring students to participate on certain days, or a certain number of days per week, defeats the purpose of online learning. Break the term into reasonable units of study that are consistent from beginning to end. Make deadlines clear. Be flexible when needed, but firm enough to offer appropriate structure. Keep the students together in a learning group as opposed to a self-paced model.

Keep it simple: One of the most common downfalls of design happens over the entire development period. As a course developer moves from beginning to end, they frequently complicate the learning environment by adding every good idea that comes to them. This can create a frustrating experience for students, and weaken the overall experience. Create a simple, yet robust structure first, then stick with the structure from beginning to end.

Use Active Learning strategies: The majority of the learning opportunities should involve interaction with the instructor and other classmates. Giving students the opportunity to explore their learning and tie it with their life experiences is the most valuable. Lecture and exam components should be minimized but not eliminated.

Discussion strategies should include topics that have no right or wrong answers, and offer probing questions to help the student think about what you're hoping will unfold as the discussion moves through its period. Avoid laundry lists. Avoid definitions. Encourage what-if thinking, and application of theory into experience.

Be explicit in all instructions and expectations: Use a consistent rubric from start to finish so that students know what is expected of them, and don't become victims of unstated expectations. Offer many opportunities to earn points, and allow for choices whenever possible.

Redundancy is important: In an online environment, it is very easy for student to miss seeing components, directions, and comments. Make sure that critical information

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