A learning theory approach in support of outcomes-based e-learning

Abstract

Outcomes-based education (OBE) is the educational paradigm currently advocated in South Africa. This paper proposes the Hexa-C Metamodel (HCMm) as a learning theory foundation for the design and development of e-learning applications to support OBE where appropriate. The HCMm integrates six concepts from contemporary learning theory into a framework that serves as a design and evaluation aid for e-learning. The National Department of Education views OBE as an approach that can build a culture of meaningful learning for a heterogeneous body of learners. The seven critical outcomes of OBE can be supported by the ethos and elements of the HCMm. Each outcome is discussed in turn, suggesting how various HCMm elements can be used in e-learning to help learners attain that outcome in the context of tertiary education.