Mapping pedagogy and tools for effective learning design

A number of pedagogics and approaches are often quoted in the e-learning literature - constructivism, communities of practice, collaboration - but we suggest that much of what is described could more easily be explained in terms of didactic and behaviourist approaches to learning. In this paper we propose a model that supports the development of pedagogically driven approaches to e-learning. The paper begins by explaining how models can be used to represent theoretical approaches and to support practitioners' engagement with these. After outlining the method through which this can be achieved, a model of pedagogies is developed. This process begins with a review of learning theories, from which key components of learning are distilled. This abstraction is used as an analytical tool, allowing components of learning scenarios to be described and related to appropriate theoretical approaches through the use of specific tools and resources. Our assertion is that a better articulation and mapping of different pedagogical processes, tools and techniques will provide a pedagogic approach that is more reflexive and consistent with practitioners' theoretical perspective on learning and teaching. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.