VI.1 Tools & media support the learning objectives and are integrated with test & assignments
VI.2 Tools & media enhance student interactivity; become a more active learner
VI.3 Technologies for course are provided or easily downloadable
VI.4 Tools & media are compatible with existing standards of delivery modes
VI.5 Sufficient & easy tounderstand instructions on accessing resources at a distance
VI.6 Course technologies take advantage of existing economics & efficiencies of delivery

Tools and media used in the course support related learning objectives, and are integrated with texts and lesson assignments. Students know how the tools and media support the assignments and how they support the learning objectives. Technology is not used simply for the sake of using technology.

For example, a course might require viewing video materials, but it may not be clear how the video materials illustrate or support any learning objective.

Alignment: This standard is included in Alignment. (Critical course components work together to ensure that students achieve the desired learning outcomes.)

Tools and media used in the course help students actively engage in the learning process, rather than passively “absorbing” information.

Examples:

• Automated ‘self-check’ exercises requiring student response
• Animations, simulations, and games that require student input
• Software that tracks student interaction and progress
• Use of discussion tools with automatic notification or ‘read/unread’ tracking feature

For this standard, the term “technologies” may cover a range of plug-ins such as Acrobat Reader, media players, etc. In addition, courses may require special software packages (spreadsheets, math calculators etc.). Clear instructions tell students how to obtain needed plug-ins and software packages.

For example, if most students have access to DVD players or use streaming media, use of those delivery modes in an online class meets this standard. If the typical student cannot be expected to have access to a technology at his or her out-of-the box home computer off campus, that technology should probably not be used in the course.

Online students need to know about and be able to obtain access to educational resources by remote access. Information on these resources is readily visible with clear instructions on how to access these resources.

Examples:

• The instructor mails to students a custom CD he has prepared for the course
• An explanation of how to obtain full text journal articles is provided in the assignment that requires their use

As innovative technologies appear on the market all the time, online course technology should be current. Courses not recently developed may need to be updated. (Check the Instructor Worksheet).

Example:

• Using compressed files to reduce file downloading time
• Delivering Audio files in a common file type such as Windows Media or RealPlayer

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