Academy Instructors	Lesson 2: Readings (1)	-

Guide #3 Instructional Development for Distance Education

Gottschalk, T.H. (Ed.) (1996).

Abstract by Steve Colson

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Most instructional development models follow the same basic stages of design, development, evaluation, and revision. The author stresses that these stages are particularly important in a distance education format. The article explores each of these stages in relation to distance education. A graphic is included that succinctly shows the stages of this type of model.

During the design stage distance educators must determine the need for the instruction by analyzing the audience. Visits to the distant sites and interviews with the prospective learners can be profitable and help build a more personalized learning experience. After the student needs and characteristics are determined then the establishment of goals and objective begins.

The development stage includes creating a content outline, reviewing existing materials, organizing/developing content, and selecting/developing materials and methods. The author cautions against using pre-packaged materials without considering the unique needs of each learning site. Site relevant examples are crucial in this development stage as well as the availability of various technologies to all distance learners.

The evaluation stage includes reviewing goals and objectives and then developing an evaluation strategy that utilizes formative, summative, quantitative, and qualitative evaluation techniques. These types of evaluation are discussed and conclude with ways to collect and analyze this data.

In the last stage of instructional development, the revision stage takes into consideration the information obtained during the evaluation stage. Whether the changes are minor or major, they can be tested on small groups of distant learners to ensure a successful completion to the entire developmental model outlined by Gottschalk.