Course Design and Aesthetics

Course Aesthetics

 

 

 

 

 

Good design starts AFTER the content has been decided.It creates a visually pleasing page that guides users clearly to the material.The focus of course aesthetics is the audience. They want to get onto the course, find the material and get it done.Today they want to do that quickly. Consider what will make it easy for students to get to where they want to go. Even though technology has advanced to the point where users can literally add a talking head to a course, that may not be a successful addition for your course. A simple, clear  design is the best plan.

Organization provides most of the clarity but clarity comes partly from the actual look of the course- that is the color, pictures and how things are listed.

 

Things to consider:

Don't let the look overwhelm or confuse. 

Students do not have the understanding of your course that you have until the end of the course.
Real Estate or Space is VERY limited in an e-learning environment. Students will not scroll or read what  comes below the initial display of the screen so  use that 1/2 page wisely.

Pictures

Make sure they are properly sized
Make they are clear and relevant to the course
Do not use too many pictures

Add Standardization

Consider a standard  pages layout for similar activities: Assignments or Different Activities
Consider using one picture prepared  in different colors to denote different aspects of the course, different units, or course activity.
Consider using three colors for a design
List items in a particular order this will ease stress and add security for the users.

Examples

Canvas Exemplary Courses
Building with Everyone in Mind Download Building with Everyone in Mind