The process of designing online courses often focuses on the methodology of taking certain steps to produce a product (the course). We feel that learning should be an experience more than a place run by a person constrained by specific designs. The goal of this book is to provide an updated look at many of the issues that comprise the online learning experience creation process. As online learning evolves, the lines and distinctions between the various classifications of courses has blurred and often vanished. Learning contexts run the gamut from small to massive, and from closed courses to boundary-less experiences. But how do we create something within this incredibly wide range? Classic elements of instructional design remain relevant at the same time that newer concepts of learning experience are growing in importance. However, problematic issues new and old still have to be addressed. This book aims to be a handbook that explores as many of these issues and concepts as possible for new and experienced designers alike, whether you are creating traditional online courses, open learning experiences, or anything in between. We also desire this book to be an ongoing process. Many issues and contexts were covered, many were not covered in enough depth, and many others were not covered at all. Our desire is that this book will begin a conversation that will add to future editions as more people join the writing team.
