As we move from teacher use of the Internet to find resources to use the Internet to create curriculum, students will become more involved in accessing and producing web-based materials. Thus teachers, preparing for future classrooms, need to be taught how to design the curriculum for web-based environments that take into consideration universal and instructional design principles which would meet the needs of diverse learners as well as integrate technology. For discussion purposes, the following terms need to be defined. Instructional design is the process of developing plans for instruction through practical application of theoretical principles. The integration of technology has provided a change in the educational paradigm.
Teachers have access to new technology in increasing numbers.
Because of the diversity in both learners and information, a single approach to all instruction will not work. A number of different methods and media exist for designing and developing learning experiences and the roles of learner and teacher shift based on the situation, the content, and the special needs of the individuals involved. Instructional design principles should be followed in the design of lessons and units for classroom use. Design of instruction includes instructional analysis, determining the specific content, objectives, assessments, instructional strategy, and media decisions. Development includes creation of individual lessons and materials.