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Synthesizing the week's content: Use any combination of the prompts below to summarize, analyze, and synthesize the readings, discussions, and activities from this week. Consider what you have learned/discussed about e-learning & visual design principles and designing for accessibility.
Synthesizing the week's content: Use any combination of the prompts below to summarize, analyze, and synthesize the readings, discussions, and activities from this week. Consider what you have learned/discussed about e-learning & visual design principles and designing for accessibility.
This week, our group looked at the different dimensions of e-learning, focusing on visual design principles and accessibility. We explored the CRAP design principle (Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity) through an in-class activity called 'A Lesson in Bad Design' that highlighted the importance of these elements in creating effective and visually appealing educational materials. The image carousel below displays our modifications to the original slides, based on the CRAP principle. Additionally, we used the WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool to evaluate the accessibility of the SNC1D webpage on TVO Learn, which had minor suggestions, however, overall performed well. This reinforced the significance of designing inclusive and accessible online content.
Our discussions and readings on Mayer’s research provided insights into the evolution of online learning from behaviorist to constructivist approaches, emphasizing the importance of interactive and personalized learning environments. We also examined cognitive load theory and its application in instructional design, highlighting strategies to manage cognitive load effectively in online courses. Finally, we discussed the challenges and strategies for fostering generative processing in online learning as well as the future of online education, considering technological advancements and the need for continuous professional development.
Application to Practice
The content we covered this week about visual design principles and accessibility directly relates to my goal of creating inclusive and effective online learning experiences. Our discussion on cognitive load theory and instructional design strategies also aligns with my interest in improving student engagement and learning outcomes, especially in digital environments. Applying the CRAP design principles is an effective way to significantly enhance the clarity and appeal of instructional material. By ensuring there is consistency, repetition, alignment, and proximity in design, not only aids in comprehension but also maintains student engagement. Additionally, using tools like WAVE for accessibility evaluation is useful for creating inclusive learning environments that cater to all students, particularly those with disabilities. In terms of instructional design, I see myself incorporating strategies to manage cognitive load, such as segmenting (breaking down) content and providing timely feedback, to make complex information more digestible. Finally, I aim to foster generative processing through interactive and collaborative activities to help build a sense of community in my classroom and motivate learners to engage deeply with the material.
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