The Role of Web Design

While I see methodology as the most important factor in effective online distance education, the influence of Web design cannot be overlooked. Good, usable designs lower the affective filter of Web users, particularly adults with little exposure to online study. With this in mind, I strive to create designs open pathways to information and do not erect barriers. My work in Web design takes two forms: Informational and Instructional.

Informational Web Design

I see my job as a Web designer for informational sites as one of designing a space that is aesthetically pleasing, enables easy information retrieval, and is easy for non-technical staff to manage and update. See the following two examples for more insight on my designs.

• ICCATs
• TACIT
• IDT Record
• EdGlobal

Instructional Web Design

I see my job as an instructional Web designer as combining all the elements of both informational and instructional Web deisgn. See the following two examples for more insight on my interactive designs.

• OnCourse Tutorial
• Excel Flashcards

Course websites offer a glimpse into the design of instruction as well as the various technologies utilized. See the following examples of my work with course websites:

• L540 ESL/EFL Instruction and Assessment Approaches
• L530 Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL)
• English Language Through Computers and the Internet