Yes. Maintaining such a database saves time as the course developer may quickly find, sort, locate, and upload desired components to use in multiple courses.
The learning-object database as a useful tool for lesson design could be applied to more than just online courses. Given the proper hardware and software, it would be a great tool for classroom lesson design as well.
Consistency is key when designing an online learning environment. It is important for instructors to ensure things like lesson/module length to the language we use must be consistent. Also, so important to consider things like font size and video length as well. It will be important to consider all of the items as I plan for online learning.
Be clear, and consistent when developing the course. Be observant of whether students are understanding what is before them. A video should be 10-15 minutes long not much more than that. Modules should stay the same. When you quiz the unit/chapter it should all be consistent.
The use of these ideas help develop the teacher. Chunking information instead of giving large content at once.I will also remember to keep videos at 15-20 minutes in length. This will avoid the students being cognitive confused.
Like modules in EL102, this first module in EL103 offers a lot of insight and experienced, professional opinions on how to author an online course using course framework for design and testing, along with the use of learning objects. Among the other great strategies mentioned here is using a database to track and store reusable learning objects, which are learing objects that can be reused (or shared with peers), in other course modules, other programs, etc. Overall, this was a very good presentation on how to create, test and then propogate a successful online course. The only thing not mentioned, is the need to develop learing modules using of strategic (a.k.a. "current" operating systems and current levels of application software like JAVA) in order to ensure the learning module operates correctly and consistently and does not pose a security risk, such as older products like Adobe Flash. The module also fails to mention the need to maintain (via software patches or software upgrades) any learning objects you create or share with others, so they continue to function correctly, when the software in the CMS (Coure Management System) is going to be changed and / or upgraded.
Having the right format to develop on the canvas is imperitive to delivering the information to the students.
I learned that it would be a good idea to have someone who has not seen your class site take a look at it to make sure the links make sense and everything is easy to get to/understand. This will help to prevent many issues that students would have had, and to address the consistency/flow of the site before students look at it for the first time. I like this idea and will do this.
Consistency in modules is important. I like the objects database.
My biggest take-away was that module consistency is a must. Sections or weekly are both fine but chucking information together into smaller amounts will help the learners.
It is very intresting on how the sites are required to be set up and the difficulty it can cause if you do not keep the same format through out the entire course.
During this module I learned new vocabulary words. As an instructor, I always tell my students to learn new vocabulary words so he/she can increase their reading skills. Today, I learned the meaning of instructional scaffolding and junking.
I Learned how to create differnt type of online techniques that I use with my students.
For me the biggest takeaway from this module was the need for consistency. I can see how changing even small components from module to module might confuse students. I definately see myself creating and testing modules before opening them to students.
The importance of planning and creating a course module template, testing the template, revising, and implementing. Implementation should also be from the student perspective. Modules should be consistent from module to module.
Course modules should be consistent and easy to follow. They should also be similar in length. Course materials should be kept in an organized fashion and made readily available for students to access. I plan to take a look at my on-line modules for my course to ensure consistency, length or organization.
Creating and sharing a learning-object Database can make your life a ton easier the next time you teach a course.
I believe in consistency also framework. I also have used chunking in a classroom setting and believe it will be a great advantage with online instruction. In my profession 5-10 min. film clips work the best.
Being consistant is key to students success
