Courseware engineering methodology

Abstract

THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF EFFECTIVE COURSEWARE is a complex process involving many forms of expertise. Several disciplines such as instructional design theories, software engineering principles, human-computer interaction and multimedia are involved. It is not always feasible for a novice to be familiar with such a range of expertise. A methodology integrating all of these various disciplines is urgently needed. The Courseware Engineering Methodology (CEM) has been developed by the author to guide novices in designing effective courseware, based on the integration of the various disciplines. CEM has been used successfully by over seventy students at an UK university to develop their courseware in the last few years. This paper describes the CEM development process. The CEM process consists of four models. The pedagogical model concerned with the pedagogical aspects of the courseware; the conceptual model, dealing with the software engineering aspects of the design; the interface model relating to the interface of the courseware, and the hypermedia modelling that deals with the navigational issues of the courseware. Each of the models will be briefly reviewed. The paper concludes by stating the benefits of using a modular approach to courseware development and reuse.