This paper reported on the findings of research into innovation in e-learning design and assessment through the development and implementation of online learning activities (e-tivities). The focus of the study was on Carpe Diem as a process to enable academic course teams to seize 2 days to design and embed pedagogically appropriate e-tivities…

Discussion of the development of written instructional materials for distance education focuses on the transformation of existing materials into good teaching materials by course teams. Changes in the course as a whole are considered as well as changes in the materials; checklists are provided; and examples are given of transformed materials.…

Discussion of multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders involved in the production of electronic learning materials focuses on a constructivist methodology for course design. Explains concept mapping that provided the basis for an electronic learning development project at the University of Surrey (United Kingdom) and includes examples of concept…

Defines eight software production stages, and argues that the key to the production of a higher quantity of reasonable quality software lies in development of support technologies to assist teachers in software development. Three approaches--software toolboxes, computer assisted instruction (CAI) program shells, and software CAI analysts--are…

The first two articles describe the processes employed by Open University faculty members in preparing distance education courses and in commenting on and redrafting materials. The third looks at factors that influence the decisions of faculty members to determine why they prepare their teaching materials in the ways described. (MBR)