Course Description: Instructional Materials Evaluation Techniques (EDT 512)
The course Instructional Materials Evaluation Techniques (EDT 512) is a three-credit unit course designed to equip learners with the knowledge and skills required to effectively evaluate, select, design, and utilize instructional materials in both conventional and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) environments.
This course emphasizes the critical role instructional materials play in facilitating meaningful teaching and learning. It recognizes that effective education depends not only on the availability of instructional resources but also on their quality, relevance, and appropriateness to learners’ needs. As such, the course provides a systematic approach to assessing instructional materials using established evaluation criteria and instructional design models.
Throughout the course, learners are introduced to the principles of instructional materials design, various instructional design models such as Dale’s Cone of Experience, ASSURE model, and Hoban and Zissman model, as well as techniques for selecting and utilizing appropriate media in diverse learning contexts. The course also explores strategies for integrating instructional materials into teaching, particularly in ODL settings where materials serve as the primary medium of instruction.
In addition, the course develops learners’ competencies in applying evaluation tools such as checklists, rating scales, and rubrics to determine the effectiveness, usability, and cost-efficiency of instructional materials. It also highlights the importance of feedback, revision, and continuous improvement in the design and implementation of instructional resources.
By the end of the course, learners will be able to critically assess instructional materials, make informed decisions regarding their selection and use, and design high-quality materials that enhance learning outcomes. This makes the course highly relevant for educators, instructional designers, and educational technologists who aim to improve teaching effectiveness and learner engagement in modern educational environments.
