A participatory design approach to the development of online tutor training materials

A case study from China

Abstract

The role of the tutor in online learning can be complex due to the wide range of media and pedagogies that can potentially be used. As a result there is a need for effective training materials that recognise this and the Sino-UK eEducator project aims to meet this need.

This paper reports research into the participatory design approach adopted within the project. Ten potential users of the final eEducator training module are involved in the design process. Reflective journals and interviews have been used to collect data regarding the ways they work with other academics and learning technologists. The paper describes the process, the similarities participants share and problems they confront in this project.