Disagree, I believe they have to have a basic understanding of how to create and manage the site, but do not have to be wizards. The more knowledge of computers the better.
I think that you must take a course in actual page by page development of a course.
You need to see all the varieties of how you can design an e-learning courses. You need to make sure the course you develops fits the audience in which you are teaching.
I am 44 years old and would need a at least a 10 hour class on the physical design.
Depending on their job specifics. Do they just create or do they just review and design. Some are in a team situation and rely on the team to produce their part and then present it. I am between on this one as well. It depends on the situation.
I agree; not everyone has to be a technological wizard when developing online courses. Being familiar can’t hurt, but wizard level is not necessary. I have asked many times for help from our IT department, professors or supervisors. They have all been in my shoes before and have given me some advice on what works and what doesn’t.
Bill,
Yes, with a good staff you can just rely on faculty to be SMEs.
Best,
Jon
Beth,
Good point - many of the faculty I've worked with have been interested in learning more about the mechanics of design.
Best,
Jon
Developers of online courses do not need to be technology wizards (experts), but must be able to use the software effectively. An IT staff or outside consultants will set up the hardware and software necessary for the online course to take place. The instructor and developers are primarily involved with the course content and delivery method, rather than the technical use of the computer technology.
Bill Lembke 03/12/10
I think they have to have a good bit of tech savy. The porcess of embedding video, sound, and great visuals it not simple. I do think it can be learned if the desire is there.
Christopher,
Interesting point on tools - they can make things easier, but there may be training time that at least offsets the initial benefits.
Thanks,
Jon
I would disagree with this statement.
In order to perfect an online course you would need an understanding from not just the end users point of view but to be able to translate, evaluate and implement the best techniques that would work effectively in the online environment.
That would require a comprehensive understanding of the technology and process.
This depends on the tools available for designers. Building online materials from scratch would be more complex than using a program that aids in the design and development of these materials.
Nevertheless, all online instructors must have a basic computer competency to be successful.
Great points - thanks, Jon
Correct - the more you know, the easier it may be! - Jon
I think the majority of the work in creating an online course has to do with content so it would not be necessary for someone to be a technology expert. That being said, an understanding of the functionality is helpful as this kind of work tends to incorporate many technical aspects. If nothing else knowing the right language to interact with those manipulating the technology is important.
Personally, I don't believe that developers need to be "technological wizards" however, it definitely does help to know something about online development. If you have a "team" of people of people working on the development who can help with course construction and technical difficulties the better off you are as a whole - and the better off the student is as well.
Toni
Developers of online courses should have a working knowledge of the technology thatis available for use in online courses. This is necessary in order to determine the best use of technology for specific content.
Donna,
Good points - it really does depend on:
1) Expectations (course design, functionality, multimedia, etc.)
2) Team (IT staff, designers, templates, etc.)
In my opinion, more technical is almost always better :-) - but it is really a function of what your team can create.
Thanks,
Jon
I agree that developers don't have to be technological wizards, but if the design of the class includes a lot of bells and whistles then some technical expertise might be needed. The school that I work for has Instructional Designers who work with Insctructional Development Technicians.
Just know how to use power point and MS Work and finding thing that your school will let you use.
Kim,
I agree, especially if you are working within a developed program.
Best,
Jon
