A Model for using a Course Management System to develop Web-Based Learning Courses and Environments

Abstract

The use of web-based learning (WBL) environments in higher-education institutions is escalating, with a need for more. Ideally, the design and development of WBL should be done by a multi-skilled professional team. However, resources are scarce, so pressure is placed on academics to develop WBL themselves, although many do not have the required skills in e-learning design. The process can be facilitated if they use a systematic development methodology. This paper presents an eight-step, yet flexible, model to support the individual educator using a course management system. The model was applied to develop and implement a WBL environment for a blended-learning course at a South African university. We describe both the development process and evaluation of the resulting product, which also have generic implications for using the model.