
Whether it’s online or on-ground both structural integrity and navigation simplicity is essential. The lack of structural integrity in an online environment can create chaos for the online learner. It is therefore incumbent on the instructor to ensure that the course (content) is designed to meet the need of the students, which includes the student ability to learn and apply these new skills. Without some logical sequence in the course materials, students would be unable to grasp the information (during the learning process) that the instructor is trying to convey. As a result, with appropriate structural integrity, the instructor can provide the appropriate student evaluation that is necessary to measure the course outcomes and the quality of the course content.
Similarly, navigation simplicity is also essential in guiding the student through different areas of the course content. However, students--even for those who consider themselves “tech savvyâ€--should receive the appropriate training in the institution platform to ensure that they are familiar with and can locate the necessary course material/information. Inadequate training can lead to frustration for students and instructors who must spend unnecessary time teaching students how to navigate through the course materials.