Heuristics for Evaluating Design

This video series requires some explanation. Online learning design features many guiding principles. As part of our OLLIE series, we have teachers examine different instructional elements (discussions, quizzes, assignments, and projects) and assess those on the basis of those guiding principles. This includes samples in the class, as well as their own work.

The heuristics below give instructors a way to think about and assess those instructional elements.

Rigor (Webb's)


Flexibility (UDL)


Formative Assessment (Heritage Loop)


Interactivity (R2D2)


Aesthetics (VACROSS)