Apply the behaviorist theory initially for informal and formal online tests. Focus on the need for testing and assessment, the logical sequence for learning tasks and the importance of feedback, according to Ally. In practice, deliver an online learning platform such as Blackboard (see Resources) to organize sequential units, create learning games/practice quizzes and deliver objective or essay exams online.
Examine the cognitive theory to design your site, to provide overviews of content, to appeal to higher-level thinking skills and to reach a variety of learning styles, according to Ally. In practice, do not overwhelm students with too much information or too much audio/visual content. Create "advance organizers" (pictures or terms previewing content) so that students see the overall picture before they concentrate on the details of an online lesson.
Strengthen your online presence by using constructivist theory to engage online learning experience, define your new teaching role as a facilitator and foster a learning-centered environment, according to Gregory Beyrer. In practice, have students experience information firsthand and construct their own conclusions, rather than providing them with your interpretations, according to Ally. In Blackboard, for example, have students reply to other students' discussion board posts, evaluate each other's essay drafts and participate in group projects.
Relate the theory of connectivism to assignments that encourage your students to interact globally. In practice, students need assignments allowing them to interact with students and experts throughout the world, according to Ally. Since students must continuously learn new information available through the Web, they must learn strategies to become independent learners.
Develop assignments that combine the best practices of all learning theories. Produce engaging learning environments where students must actively voice their opinions in discussion boards or other forums. Appeal to a variety of learning styles and modalities (auditory, visual, kinesthetic), encourage independent learning through open-ended assignments and help students develop global awareness.