An investigation into the potential of the use of multimedia development WebCT to enhance the understanding of Information Technology for students, within a traditional 3 rd level lecturing environment

This dissertation examines the benefits of multimedia development WebCT, for third level full-time students as a support tool, in terms of its pedagogical benefits, it practical implementation and the design criteria used in its development.; With the widespread availability of computers and the popularity of the Internet, educators have been quick to recognise the educational potential of using the communication tools of the computer to supplement their existing courses or offering full courses on-line. This has led to the development of countless Computer-Mediated Communication environment such as Webct, in a very short time thus revitalising teaching methods by allowing for the utilisation of more modern methods of communication.; ; The syllabus in principles of Information Technology was placed online using WebCT with visual test and images, online quizzes via the Internet.; The students in the study completed post-test questionnaires and both groups completed exams during the study.; The structure of dissertation is as follows: introduction, literature review, design and methodology, analysis, conclusion and findings, followed by relevant appendices.; Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyse the results of this research. Limitations to the study and possible future research possibilities were also considered.; ; The overriding conclusion of the research is that the provision of an online management course for third level students did not affect academic performance but may have affected the information sourcing behaviour of the students.