The importance of design in the development of virtual learning environments

Abstract

In this paper, we relate instructional design – and, more specifically, the design of virtual learning environments (especially in the context of distance learning) – to other kinds of design, within the framework of design in general. We claim that a greater awareness of this relation can be quite enriching. MAPE model, which has led the design of some virtual learning environments at a Portuguese university, is presented as an example of a context in which some principles of design in general have been taken into consideration.

Keywords

• Ambiente Virtual de Aprendizagem
• Design instrucional
• Ensino à distância.