A Development Strategy for Subjects Delivered in a Flexible Learning Mode

In a tertiary educational environment where emphasis is placed on the development of flexible learning using technology, there is a need to assist academics to move from the traditional lecture/tutorial approach (i.e. a didactic, linear, information presentation form) to a flexible learning milieu (a multidimensional, interactive, non-linear approach). Many academics lack appropriate knowledge of the domain analysis process to achieve a suitable solution in a flexible learning environment, where a multi-dimensional, non-linear approach is required. This paper presents a strategy that assists the academic in this transition with emphasis on insight and development of student learning objectives and effective employment of technology to support them. The strategy describes a four step process, providing examples from the development of “Healthcare Information Systems”, part of the Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics. Step one concentrates on content, emphasizing a non-linear approach to topic development, specification of detailed student learning objectives based on Bloom’s taxonomy, educational methods of implementation to support the objectives, as well as a topic linkage map showing the integration of the topic areas. A set of educational methods developed for the sample subject is also detailed. Step two discusses project management, the effective use of technology where appropriate and the determination of in-house development versus outsourcing requirements. Step three covers the development of technology requirements in-house, focussing on issues such as testing, documentation and standards. Step four concentrates on outsourcing, with particular emphasis on the cost-benefit analysis of this area. The paper promotes this strategy of principled design based on understanding the educational objectives in the pursuit of an educationally satisfactory design as opposed to a technology driven solution. It also highlights the potential of the use of initial flexible learning environment development as a training ground for subsequent growth.