Process-centered environments for Web-based instructional modules

Summary form only given. Given the substantial development effort internationally to extend the Web as the basic interface for distributed information systems, it is appropriate to adopt the Web technologies as the primary user interface and primary server interface for computer-delivered educational modules (regardless of whether that module is accessed from a remote server across a network or resident locally). By adopting the Web interface, a coherent and standard framework for integration of visual, audio, and text information, along with a framework for moving among elements of the educational module (both elements integrated within the module and supplementary information available over the Web) is readily provided. This paper surveys the current state of the art of Web-based instructional tools and environments and presents a process model for a process-centered environment for generating Web-based lecture course modules. The tools surveyed include ClassNet, a tool developed at Iowa State University for managing Internet class activities. The process model presented specifies the major and minor steps which can be followed by instructors in preparing effective Web-based educational modules. These modules may include lecture notes, assignments (including interactive assignments), and tests. At each step of the process, the environment may provide templates and examples on developing the different parts of an educational module using suggested tools and resources. The process model assumes no previous experience on the part of instructors in developing Web-based educational modules