Disciplinary Differences in E-learning Instructional Design

Abstract

Discipline is a vital, yet largely overlooked, factor in research on e-learning course design. This study investigated disciplinary differences in the instructional design of e-learning, by comparing how instructors of mathematics-related disciplines versus others: a) met the challenges of their discipline in e-learning and b) perceived the adequacy of course management systems (CMSs). Investigators used a two-phase method: a) qualitative telephone and face to face interviews, and b) web-based questionnaires. Mathematics instructors suggested very different disciplinary challenges and corresponding e-learning solutions. Mathematics-related instructors were significantly less likely to view prevailing e-learning models and CMSs as well-suited to their discipline.