Guidelines for developing an online learning strategy for your subject.

Abstract

In the academics' quest for curriculum implementation of flexible learning and flexible delivery methods, the tendency is simply to reformat subject materials and learning strategies to fit the technology and present them thus online. Attention is too often focused on the technology rather than the educational underpinnings, which eventually leads to compromising both the students and the subject. A multifaceted approach, integrating technological, disciplinary and pedagogical expertise, was found essential in solving this problem. Using this approach and the experience gained during the conversion of a subject taught face-to-face through an online distance mode, this paper aims to focus on the processes that characterize the design and development of educationally sound online subjects. The guidelines include: identifying the target group, consideration of the five stages of developmental cycles, implementation of the subject, and evaluation. Favourable responses from participants, together with a 10% increase in graded passes, suggest that the guidelines are sound.