ATL - Distributed Learning - Analysis and Design

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4. Planning roles and responsibilities Typically, people approach decision making regarding the design and delivery of course materials according to two models: centralized or decentralized. The model chosen dramatically affects who is involved in a project and how they will work together. Often the choice of a production model is not discussed explicitly. This results in frustration, if not mayhem, for individuals working on the project because consensus has not been reached in regards to each person's role and responsibilities. Study the two models described below and determine who will be part of the project team and what they will be responsible for doing. *Decentralized decision-making* Philosophy: The decentralized model, also referred to as the Lone-Ranger and Tonto approach, involves the instructor working independently perhaps with the support of an assistant.
Advantages:	• consistent with existing approaches in traditional universities • instructors often appreciate being able to teach in an individualistic manner
Disadvantages:	• relies heavily on the technical ability of the instructor • requires an extensive time commitment from the instructor • lack of consistency in design, quality, and structure of materials within a program • production of materials by several instructors in a program of study can be costly due to lack of standardization • instructors often use the same teaching strategies as they would use in a face-to-face situation failing to recognize unique opportunities and demands of DLE's
*Centralized decision-making* Philosophy: People using this model hold that a systematic approach by a team of professionals optimal strategy for developing courses.
Advantages:	• the division of labor results in media specialists producing learning materials which meet a high production standard • instructors are introduced to teaching strategies that capitalize on the technologies available • courses in a program are more consistent in their design and quality • larger distance education programs have generally found that a centralized approach is most productive and cost effective
Disadvantages:	• instructors may feel uncomfortable with sharing the control of the design of courses • the analysis and design process may take longer than with a decentralized approach • institutional support is necessary • care must be taken to avoid a template-driven approach that needlessly restricts instructors' options

Roles	Course Design Decision Making
	Decentralized	Centralized
Content Specialist	Primary decision maker directing design and production of course materials. Often also acts as the instructor.	Responsible to course manager. Works collaboratively with instructional designer and production team. May or may not actually teach the course.
Course Manager	Ensures instructor has necessary resources. Allows instructor to develop materials according to loosely defined parameters.	Works with instructional designer and instructors to proactively establish guidelines for the development of course materials within program. Ensures course development team has necessary resources.
Instructional Designer	May or may not be part of development team. Provides consultation based on instructor's requests.	Key member of course development team. Provides leadership in effective instructional strategies and the systematic development of materials that employ new media.
Media production team members	Produce media elements and instructional elements as directed by instructor.	Answer to course manager. Apply established principles to produce materials through consultation with the instructional designer and instructor.

When initiating contracts with instructors and planning how courses will be developed, clarify whether or not decisions about the course will be made using a decentralized or centralized model. If the course manager is operating under a different set of assumptions than the instructor, problems will result which could result in a distressingly negative situation for all concerned. It is better to reach an agreement on the process and the roles and responsibilities of team members early. Remember to determine the approval process, those who will be involved, and each person's responsibilities.