Designing Web-Based Training: How to Teach Anyone Anything Anywhere Anytime

11.2. GENERAL STRATEGIES FOR GOING GLOBAL

Before we discuss details of how to render graphics or rewrite text, let's look at a few high-level strategies that will make your course more effective for international and local learners alike.

11.2.1. Say what you expect from learners

In the Course description page (p 80) or as part of the registration process, spell out assumptions and expectations, especially concerning language skills, participation, and so forth.

Here is an example of such a description. It spells out the required language and technical skills, as well as a willingness and ability to participate fully.

11.2.2. Accommodate different levels of technology

If many of your learners lack reliable high-speed communications links or must sometimes access your course over slower channels, design your course so that it still works on these slower channels.

11.2.2.1. Do not squander bandwidth

Bandwidth is a technical term for the speed of a communications channel, which determines how fast it can download Web pages, pictures, and video clips. If the learner's bandwidth is limited, put your graphics and multimedia on a diet.

Never use a big file to do what a small one does better.

Ask yourself, "Do I really need that 1 megabyte video clip to show how to insert Tab A into Slot B? Or would a 15K animation work as well?"

11.2.2.2. Provide multiple versions

If you require ...