Breaking with Tradition: Constructivist Development Methodologies for the Web

Abstract

Constructivist instructors who attempt to develop a curriculum that uses browser-based multimedia technologies using traditional instructional design methodologies may find themselves dissatisfied with the results. In developing for the web the traditional ID model is not the appropriate development methodology. This paper discusses the instructional development techniques used in the creation of Iowa State University's browser-based Masters of Agronomy program. Topics such as rapid prototyping, being mindful of student needs, iterative evaluation, and versatility and reusability of development tools are discussed. By sharing our experiences in developing this program is our hope that others who are developing instruction in this still relatively new medium can gain from what we have encountered.