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

10.7. PACE AND PROMPT LEARNERS

The timetable of formal classroom training is a strong motivator. The frequent requirements to attend class, submit homework, and take tests help learners stay on schedule. If learners lack the discipline to pace themselves through a WBT course, we may need to create a rhythm of prompting events. Tell learners how important it is to keep on schedule and what to do if they fall behind.

10.7.1. Publish a schedule

Provide a detailed schedule for learners who need a high level of structure. Include a complete outline of the course, including content, activities, and tests. Remember that busy learners may need some time to arrange their work and personal schedules so that they can participate in these events. Make the schedule available before the course begins.

For self-paced courses, suggest a schedule or calculate one for the learner based on the amount of time the learner agrees to devote to study.

10.7.2. Space out activities

Give the course a comforting, consistent, regular rhythm. In an instructor-led class, build in enough evenly spaced instructor-graded exercises and tests so that the instructor can monitor progress of learners, while learners feel they have a partner in learning.

Instead of one long test at the end of a course, include small tests every week or so. Interleave collaboration and activities to break the monotony of extensive reading and to provide frequent chances to practice what is being learned.

10.7.3. Require weekly contributions ...