Hear ye, hear ye...

In the world wide of web, there are two ways a user can access audio function in a web page. The first one is known as streaming and the next one (which is most popular) is known as downloading.

Streaming means the users can access the audio files on the spot (in real time) without downloading the files. In addition, it utilises playback function for the users. This service can be obtained in webpage like www.aimini.com and www.mix.fm.




On the other hand, downloading enables the users to download the files so that they can transferred the files into any hard drive. This can be seen in webpages like www.mp3int.com, www.mp3raid.com and so many more.


Furthermore, these two types of audio fuctions can be accessed based on factors like...

• the speed of the internet,
• the technology applied in distributing the audio files
• the compression techniques as well as th
• the format used which in way involved the size and quality.
  

The numerous formats in distributing audio files are, MP3, WAV, MIDI, Real Audio, OGG Vorbis, AIFF and the list goes on. However, MP3 is the most sought after since the size is relatively small and yet the quality of the sound is still preserved.

As a 'hardcore downloader' I am very particular with this audio distribution technology. Si, as a web-developer, it is a prime priority to determine the correct method and technology if this service is going to be integrated in a particular webpage. This is because it can determine the satisfaction of the users and hence the popularity of the webpage.

For all and sundry

In designing a web page, it is imperative for any developer to identify the audience. This is because the integration of colors, graphics and fonts depend heavily on the appeal of the audience. The range of age of the audience is one of the key factors determining the design.

In order to highlight the differences, I am going to compare two websites that have similar purpose but differs in the target audience. I am going to compare the designs of two educational websites. The first one is educational website for children an the other is for adult education (androgogy)

The first website is entitled Kidsknowit Network. This website is designed for young children.

[Click for a larger view]

Color scheme: The color choice is very vibrant and bright. This is to catch the attention of young children and at the same time to stimulate their interest. This is also to stimulate their brain so that the children can be more alert accessing this website.

Graphics : Very childlike and colorful. The animation is also provided since this element has a strong appeal on children in which will enhance and eventually maintain their interest in accessing the educational website.

Font & typeface: The font chosen is very suitable. It is not cursive as it will confuse the young minds who are mostly still learning to read.

Navigation : If we look closely at the enclosed picture, we can see that the navigation buttons are relatively big and easy to access. This is very crucial as children's hands are still small and most of them are still learning to use a mouse. So, by providing large navigational buttons, the children can access the contents easily. Moreover, the developer uses ample pictures. This is to guide children with reading difficulty.


The next website, NIACE: Promoting Adult Learning, is meant to more mature audience.

[Click for larger view]

Color scheme: The color scheme for this page is very relaxing and soothing. The developer doesn't need to use bright and vibrant color scheme since adult doesn't need the attraction. In fact, the color complements the mood. By and large, working adults need to relax after a hard day at work and most probably the only time they can access this website is at night of after work. They need to relax while browsing the Net. Bright colors can only distract them from accessing the site.

Graphics : There is no animation in this website. Since this will only hamper the loading of the page. Remember, time is essence. More animations mean more time loading. The pictures used are very straightforward and minimal.

Font & typeface : Very simple and relatively smaller compared to the first website. More often than not, adult won't be having any difficulties in reading hence the size of the font should not be more than 14. In fact, as an adult I will feel insulted if the developer uses large font because as if the developer is belittling my ability to read.

Navigation : Very simple and not cluttered. In fact, the developer uses navigational bar for easy access. No pictures needed as adult can read and understand the content.


[Author's note]
For those who are not so sure what is ANDROGOGY is (and no, it is not ANDROGYNY) do click this LINK.

Next Top Models???

This post is the extension of the previous one. And this time around I would like to discuss the ID Models. In previous post I have defined what is ID. Based on my reading ID is also known as

• Instructional Development,
  
• Instructional Design and Development,
  
• Instructional Systems Design (ISD),
  
• Instructional Technology as well as
  
• Educational Technology.

Therefore, from this we can conclude that the main purpose if ID models is to serve as tools for analyzing, designing, creating and evaluation guided learning.

Evidently, there are numerous types of ID models that we can apply in developing our websites. These ID models are created because the need to test and evaluate learner behaviours are emerging. Also, many researchers believe that it is important to know how well the learners can perform in a particular educational activity. Click on the screenshots for the types of ID models.





All these ID Models can be utilised in order to test and evaluate learners behaviours and understanding. Other than that, a web-developer can also utilise ID models such as ADDIE [click H.E.R.E. to read more] and ASSURE [click H.E.R.E. to read more].

ADDIE model is rather simple and straightforward. It is actually an acronym that stands for:
A = Analysis
D = Design
D = Development
I = Implementation
E = Evaluation

ASSURE on the other hand offers more detailed steps:
A = Analyze learners
S = State objectives
S = Select media and learners
U = Utilize media and learners and
E = Evaluate and revise.

In the final analysis, in testing and evaluating I would much prefer to utilize ASSURE model in developing my website. This is because, it tells exactly what should we do it progresses from one stage to another. In my humble opinion, ADDIE model is a tad vague for me since it is too simple. As for the rest of the models, I believe they are somewhat mind-boggling and 'cluttered' (if you get my drift). Well, I leave it to you to decide on which is the top model.... My two cents!

Learning Theories 101

In this post I am going to discuss on the implementation of learning theories in websites.

Before I begin any further, allow me to shed some light on the differences between model and theory. According to Dorrin, Demmin & Gabel (1990), a theory provides a general explanation for observation. It also can predict behaviour. However a theory cannot be established before it is accepted by all.

On the other hand, a model is a mental picture that helps us understand something we cannot see or experience directly.

Next, what actually is ID model? ID models a.k.a Instructional Design models can best be defined as frameworks for developing modules or lessons that can increase and/or enhance the possibility of learning as well as encourage the engagement of learners so that they learn faster and gain deeper levels of understanding. In doing so, it is imperative to implement the learning theories in the models.

Learning theory is an obvious source for inspiration, insight, and new perspectives on instruction design. Hence, learning theories act as a foundation and ID acts as a building built on the foundation. In relation to web developing, a developer must aware the importance of ID models in implementing learning theories into a website. This is to assure the functionality of the website.

There are 3 learning theories that a developer needs to consider. Behaviourism, cognitivism and constructivism.

In gist, behaviourism learning theory can be traced back since Aristotle. It is based on observable changes in behaviour . It also focuses on a new behavioral pattern being repeated until it became automatic. Moreover, it is based on stimulus-response pattern. This theory had made popular by names like Pavlov, Thorndike, Watson, as well as Skinner. The best example to implement this learning theory is in computer class. In this class, the learners will obtain understanding through repetition of action as well as observation.

Next, is cognitivism. This learning theory is made popular by Piaget. Furthermore, this theory deals on the thought process behind the behaviour. Furthermore, In addition, changes in behaviour are observed because these changes usually reflect the activities inside ones' head, so to speak. This theory usually deals with how people perceive and remember information, solve problems and ultimately learn. A key concept of cognitivism is that learning constructs mental maps in the brain and learning process is the means by which these mental structures are understood. For example, in learning Physics, a student must understand the concept and internalize the concept in his/her mind. Then, he/she must build a mental map of that concept so that it makes sense. This, in a way, will strengthen their understanding of a concept.

The final theory that I will discuss is constructivism. It views learning as a process in which the learner actively constructs or builds new ideas or concepts based upon current and past knowledge or experience. It based on the principles that a learner constructs his/her perspective of the world, experiences as well as schema. In addition, it prepares learner to solve problem in complex situation. In layman term, it simply means learning by integrating one's acquired knowledge with one's experiences so that the learning will be much more meaningful. In constructivism, a learner is given freedom to explore within the given framework. This theory promotes learner to internalize concepts, rules, and general principles. Then these concepts, consequently, be applied in a practical real-world context.


In the final analysis, in building a website, a developer needs to consider which learning theory fits the bill. The developer also must acknowledge the learning styles that he/ she is going to utilize in the website. Therefore a developer should vary the usage of instructional materials and include audio visual examples, demonstrations, opportunities for practical application along with corrective feedback. The use of feedback to guide and support the learner in creating accurate mental connections is a key component of the success of a website. The use of technology can be used effectively by providing interest and variety, thereby aiding comprehension and the elaboration of existing cognitive structures.




[Author's note]
In the next post, I will be discussing more on the types of ID models.

Web evaluation: what you need to know

After a month studying on web-based development, I realize that to develop a website is not a stroll in a park. It takes a lot of effort as well patience. In this post I am going to discuss the measures taken in evaluating a website.

First and foremost, after developing a website, it is imperative to ensure that the website is fully functional as well as be accessible to all and sundry. Hence, in order to obtain this state, a web-developer must undergo a web evaluation process. Like any other products, a website needs to be evaluated before it is officially published in the Net. The website must undergo a formative as well as summative evaluations. This is crucial in order the obtain the functionality and accesibility result. Then it is analyzed by manipulating reliability as validity concept.

One might wonder, why do we need to evaluate the website? The answer lies in the purpose of a website. We must consider the main purpose of a website as the main resource of learning and if a website fail to meet this purpose then, it is a flop.

Another question might rise in which who and how a website will be evaluated? The best way is to utilize a classic method. This method, more often than not, incorporates

• the use of experts in the respective disciplines
• the user's usage of a particular website
• reviewing the previous literature of similar results as well as
• observation the use of the website in real-time.

Basically, all these steps will assure you on the efficiency of the evaluation.

However, this does not stop here. After the evaluation is done, a web-developer needs to undergo an accessible and usability testing.

The reason why do we have to do usability testing is because it will determine the 'survival' and the 'popularity' of our website. In usability testing, there are 5 components of quality that need to be considered. They are; learnability i.e how fast can users learn, efficiency i.e how fast can the users apply the skill learned; memorability i.e how easy people can be proficient; errors i.e how frequent the errors or can users resolve the errors and lastly satisfaction i.e do the users feel satisfy with the design interface.

The next step that needs to be considered is the accessibility testing. This testing will highlight whether a website has a proper layout and navigable. This testing will also determine whether the typeface of a font as well as language register are appropriate for the target users or not. By and large this testing tests whether a website can incorporate all types of media items. In a nutshell, accesibility testing is the one test that ensures whether a website is worth visiting

In developing the evaluation tools, it is vital for the web developer to consider the appropriate methods. Basically, the most prominent tool is the web evaluation form. This is can be done by using a proper web evaluation form.

[Click the picture for the link]

You can also click H.E.R.E to view another example.

In developing a web evaluation form, it is important to ensure that it is valid and reliable. To ensure the validity of a form a developer must ensure that the item in the evaluation form really measures the proposed researched. In order to ensure the reliability of the web evaluation form, the result achieves must be accurate and consistent and the instrument must concord with the research methodology.

In the final analysis, as a future web-developer I need to do evaluation on my website. The result from the evaluation will help me in improving my website. The result that I collect from the web evaluation form later on can determine the forte and the shortcoming of my website.