Design Guidelines for Web-Based Courses

Abstract

Successful course creation for the Web environment means much more than the use of documents uploaded and electronically linked together. Course content should be designed specifically for use with an interactive, electronic medium that is capable of accommodating different types of audiovisual information (Porter, 1997, p. 128). This content can include video clips, animation, sound effects, music, voiceovers, photographs, drawings, and linked and unlinked pages. It means maintaining high standards of quality while promoting accessibility, motivation, and interactivity for students who are learning in this environment. Students in Web-based courses can become problem solvers involved in real-world problems as they take responsibility for their own learning.