Implementation of content and media is one of the most important aspects of online course design. An instructional design team can find amazing learning objects but if they are not used correctly the desired learning outcomes may never be accomplished. In my opinion the main job of an instructional design team is to organize the learning objects in a manner that facilitates the construction of knowledge. As Clark and Mayer (2008) suggest their is a science or methodology to e-learning. This science is what distinguishes online instructional design from an informational website. In the case of an informational website, learning is completely up to the user, it is not assessed and it does not necessarily result in a predetermined learning outcome. However, in an online course there are desired learning outcomes, users are usually assessed summatively and formatively, and content/media is presented in a way that is intended to aid in the construction of knowledge. It is the job of the instructional design team to ensure that an online course is designed to help the user develop new knowledge or skills. In my opinion if an instructional design team does not pay close attention to the science of e-learning and online instruction then their online course will not be effective. The science of e-learning as described by Clark and Mayer (2008) is the basis of online instruction and it is the distinguishing characteristic between a computer programer and an instructional designer.
Clark, R.C. & Mayer, R.E. (2008) e-Learning and the science of Instruction: Proven guidelines for consumers and designers of multimedia learning third edition. San Francisco: Pfeiffer.
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