Course Design Flashcards

Which of the following BEST describes 'authentic assessment' in online course design?

Answer: Tasks that ask learners to apply knowledge to realistic, real-world scenarios

Authentic assessments require learners to demonstrate knowledge through tasks that mirror real-world applications rather than isolated recall.

What is the role of 'learning pathways' in advanced online course design?

Answer: Providing branched or personalized routes through content based on learner needs or performance

Learning pathways allow differentiation by routing learners through content based on their prior knowledge, performance, or stated preferences.

An instructor uses a 'pre-assessment' at the start of an online unit. What is the PRIMARY purpose?

Answer: To determine learners' prior knowledge and inform instructional planning

Pre-assessments reveal what learners already know so instructors can adjust content, avoid redundancy, and address actual gaps.

Which course design element MOST directly addresses learner motivation by connecting content to their personal goals?

Answer: A course introduction that explains the relevance and real-world value of the content

Clearly communicating why the content matters and how it connects to learners' goals directly activates intrinsic motivation from the start.

What does SCORM primarily enable in online learning environments?

Answer: Standardized communication between e-learning content and Learning Management Systems (LMS)

SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a technical standard that allows e-learning content to be packaged, shared, and tracked across different LMS platforms.

A course designer is applying the 'redundancy principle' from multimedia learning theory. What should they AVOID?

Answer: Displaying on-screen text that repeats the narration word-for-word while audio plays

The redundancy principle states that presenting the same information in both text and audio simultaneously can actually impair learning by splitting attention.

Which strategy BEST promotes a sense of community in a fully online course?

Answer: Incorporating structured peer interaction such as discussion forums, group projects, or peer review

Structured peer interaction creates social presence and community, which research (Community of Inquiry framework) links to higher satisfaction and persistence in online learning.