There are several elements of web design that are important for teaching and learning. Websites created for educational purposes should be well organized and logical. All information required to successfully complete a web course should be easily accessible. The design needs to be free of errors and be able to load quickly and completely. Any documents students need to download such as syllabus, notes and course schedule should be in a format that will be easy to download or print out.
In compiling the site's content the information selected should present multiple viewpoints with no bias. The site should present facts rather attempt to persuade the user. The content should also be correct and meaningful to the course on which the site is based, exceeding all instructional objectives. Proper citation of sources used to create the site is a requirement. When creating a site it is important to include links and citations for materials on the site.
Features such as site maps and search engines should also be incorporated into the sites' design to increase it's navigability. Keeping the styles and names of navigation buttons consistent will also increase navigability. Webpages should include multimedia functions such as graphics , audio and video that will appeal to a variety of learning styles. Animations should be used sparingly , adding interest but not overwhelming the intended message. The site also needs to be handicapped accessible. To be handicapped accessible the site will need to include handicapped options on all pages with links to support software.
Tips & suggestions for designing a web site:
1. Make it user friendly and easy to navigate.
2. Be sure to only include information that is relevant to the course.
3. Make the course highly interactive.
Good point about ensuring the site is accurate and unbiased! So often we have to weed through the trash to find the truth. Of course, that is also the case with most things!
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