A developmental model for distance learning using the Internet

The Internet opens a new generation of distance education (fourth generation), introducing sophisticated delivery tools and creating a paradigm shift with profound implications on the design of distance education courses. In order to accommodate this medium, novel curriculum design and learning models may be appropriate. In this paper, there are several instructional design models presented and a hybrid model is developed. This model integrates both constructivist and objectivist approaches to instructional design. When creating or redesigning courses for Internet distribution, content and media developers, faculty and researchers benefit from the identification of a developmental model taking into account both learning and design principles. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.