Roles

At McMaster University Continuing Education, the Development Team is composed of many stakeholders who work collaboratively to create new courses and revise existing courses. If required, development may also be outsourced to contractors who have been vetted by the Development Team.

Instructional Designer (ID)

The ID leads specific course development projects and oversees the work developed during this phase. The ID also ensures that agreed upon timelines and due dates for the various deliverables are met.

Subject Matter Expert (SME)

The SME is the sole contributor of course content. During the planning/design phase, the SME, ID, and Web Content and Course Developer work together on the course outline and design of the course.

Web Content and Course Developer (WCCD)

The WCCD is involved in the planning phase of development projects. The WCCD might be consulted regarding the selection of new or complex technologies that address specific teaching and learning needs. During the production phase, the WCCD has the primary responsibility of building the course and developing assets (i.e. learning objects) of an advanced technical nature. Typically, the WCCD will work with the ID and SME to determine the extent of technical support and expertise required throughout the project as well as specific deliverables.

Multimedia Specialist (MS)

The MS is involved in the media development and design phase of development projects. The MS has the primary responsibility of establishing the design (look and feel) of a course in consultation with the ID. Typically, the MS will work with the ID to determine the extent of multimedia design and expertise required throughout the project as well as specific deliverables.

Program Manager (PM)

The PM is responsible for the program to which the course under development belongs. As such, the PM is responsible for the administrative aspects of program development and delivery including the hiring of SMEs and instructors, determining specifics related to contracts, etc. During the development phase, the PM will be available to provide clarification on policy/procedures involving university and Continuing Education standards. The ID will provide periodic updates on the development process.

Instructor

The instructor is responsible for the course(s) they have been contracted to teach by their PM. Specifically, the instructor is responsible for preparation and management of Avenue to Learn (Avenue), accessibility and academic integrity considerations, course delivery including interactions with students, course logistics and policies and procedures.