Conceptualisation and development of multimedia courseware in a tertiary educational context: juxtaposing approach, content and technology considerations

Abstract

Developing multimedia courseware for successful integration into a wider system necessitates close attention to a multitude of factors. After a brief literature survey and a critical examination of some overly enthusiastic claims concerning the benefits of multimedia, this paper proposes a flexible framework for CALL development that takes the interrelations between approach, content, and technology-based variables into account. It contends that some of these variables are predetermined by the educational context, whereas others reflect the developers’ views of what constitutes an optimal language learning environment. The main part of the paper provides a detailed account of how these development factors shaped the design of multimedia materials for a large-scale project at the Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration. It argues for a balanced approach to learner control that, while allowing learners to interact with the materials according to their needs and preferences, provides enough learner guidance for those who prefer a more structured approach to learning. Special attention is paid to the often problematical areas of learner style suitability, feedback, and transparency of structure and content.