1 Sims, Dobbs, and Hand, “Enhancing quality in online learning: Scaffolding plan (4/18) -- Online Learning Toolbox

1 Sims, Dobbs, and Hand, “Enhancing quality in online learning: Scaffolding planning and design through proactive evaluation” Reference Background The growth of online learning has led to online classes being built recklessly, in the sense that those building the courses have not had training in online instructional design or the processes for evaluation or the build. In this article, Sims, Dobbs, and Hand (2002) identified areas in the process of instructional design process where evaluation should take place, rather than relying on the traditional way of evaluation that is done at the end of a course. The authors stressed the importance of evaluation to monitor the balance of the relationship between the course content, computer-learner environment, and learning outcomes (Sims et al., 2002). The authors emphasized planning and design being focused on those unfamiliar with an online learning environment (Sims et al., 2002). Additionally, the foci should also include the areas that are often not covered in the traditional evaluation setting: criteria surrounding the environment and resources (Sims et al., 2002). All materials should be evaluated for effective and efficient scaffolding for the learner. In doing so, this allows for the more traditional formative and summative evaluations to be beneficial and thorough at the conclusion of the online learning period. Key Points - Proactive evaluation was designed specifically to extend existing evaluations and for scaffolding purposes and for these to be integrated during the course production phase. - In using proactive evaluation, even those with less experience than others should have a successful course design. - Most important segments of instructional design process are the planning and design segments. - Underlying principles with proactive evaluation lend themselves towards online learning environments, further strengthening the development of a strong online course regardless of teacher training in e-learning. - The principles of proactive evaluation are as follows (Sims et al., 2002): - Strategic intent—Understanding the purpose - Content—The use of technology-based resources for course materials - Learning design—Learner-centered environments created by online materials - Interface design—Visual impact and flow of the learning environment - Interactivity—Positive, successful communication (multifaceted) - Assessment—Should match online environment and not mirror a traditional classroom assessment - Student support—Making resources available to students - Utility of content—Review if content can be used in different environments (think potential global site blockages, accessibility, etc) - Outcomes—Measuring how successful the teacher has been with the above Discussion Each online learning environment contains major areas of emphasis for design and context and have specific areas that affect the design of the environment. Each of these areas should be taken into consideration with evaluatio