Another core characteristic of learning environments are the
design methodology. Courses, programs, and learning objects, which
are available in OLEs, can either be self-paced, self-directed or
instructor-led. The most common form of distance-related coursedesign in traditional educational environments, like universities, is
instructor-led described as an environment where an instructor
guides learners through the required instruction content. In this type
of learning environment, the instructor controls the instructional
sequencing and pacing and all learners participate in the same
learning activities at specified times (Rhode, 2009). This learning
environment is different from learning that occurs in a self-paced
environment. Self-paced is a descriptor used for learning environments that enable individuals to study online in their own time and at
their own pace, from their own location. This mode of learning
provides the learner more autonomy to proceed at their own pace,
while their progress is monitored to assess their achievement (Rhode,
2009; Spector et al., 2008). When the term self-directed is used, it is
often in reference to all types of distance learning. It is defined by
Garrison (2003)as a mode of learning which is learner-controlled;
where the learner is more in charge of their own learning and they
monitor and manage the cognitive and contextual aspects of their
learning. Self-directed can also be perceived as independent learning,
which has no learner to learner interactions