Designing Online Learning

Course Information

This course stresses the use of instructional systems design in the analysis, design, application and evaluation of distance education and distributive learning. It is oriented toward the theory and practical considerations of learning, and instructional design. It is not -- I repeat! NOT -- a how-to for technological development. The technology for this field is changing so rapidly that it is easy to be distracted by the bells and whistles of the hardware and software hype, and even easier to forget how and why people learn. We will be looking at the unique aspects of adult education, self-directed learning, an instructor's role as a facilitator to a student's learning, correspondence learning, and the evolution of distance/distributive education and its new potential in Web-based learning/training.

Required Text

Web-based training: Creating e-Learning Experiences (2nd edition)

Distance Education: A Systems View

Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace

Class Rules

Assignments: Assignments are due at the beginning of class on the date noted on the schedule. Late assignments will be penalized. Extensions will be considered under special circumstances.

Assigned Readings: All assigned readings should be completed prior to the start of online sessions.

Academic Honesty

As graduate students it is assumed that you will conduct yourselves in a professional manner. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to: cheating on examinations, plagiarism and fraudulent practices in conducting research. Proven instances of academic misconduct may result in sanctions, including dismissal from the program. See the student handbook for additional information.

Special Learning Needs

If you have any documented special educational needs, you should advise the professor at the beginning of the course so that the appropriate accommodations can be made.